Is The Harbor Freight APEX Winch Any Good?? Lets find out!

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  • Опубліковано 3 жов 2024
  • www.harborfrei...
    Ever since Harbor Freight released their new APEX Badlands winch ive been wondering if it was any better than their previous models. Ive had alot of you ask me my opinions on it, and i figured it was time to try one out!
    I will start off by saying im a big fan on Warn winches.. Ive ran a handful of different winches on my jeeps throughout the years and ive had the best luck with Warn. However, that does not mean that im not open to trying out a new product.
    The Apex caught my eye... Not only is it a good looking winch, but it appears to have some very impressive specs.
    12,000Lb capacity, 31.5 FPM line speed, Synthetic line (which i always recommend), hardened steel planetary gears (pretty common), a wireless remote option (along with a cord), a very unique oversized hook, and a better brake system than the prior badland winches.
    In this video, we take a look at this winch and do a few tests. We will test it out on the trails soon, and put it up to some real life tests, as well as see how long it lasts!
    So far, it seems like a great option for those that want a well built winch at a fair price.
    Here are some links to other winches, and some winching accessories.
    Velcro Winch Line Chafe Guard: amzn.to/3dbcsqv
    Smittybilt XRC Gen 3 9.5K Winch: amzn.to/2y98OPp
    Warn VR EVO 12S: amzn.to/2KQ677X
    Warn Zeon 12s: amzn.to/2VSG0Uf
    Snatch Block For Angled Pulls, or Increasing Pulling Power: amzn.to/2Stx85j
    Recovery Bumper Shackles: amzn.to/3d7I1BH

КОМЕНТАРІ • 723

  • @JKGearandGadgets
    @JKGearandGadgets  4 роки тому +12

    Quite a few people have asked what Cassie’s channel is, ua-cam.com/channels/e97sOxRwtz6PTN_QGfIPBg.html
    And stay tuned for further Offroad testing videos! Either on her channel or this one. Thanks for watching!

    • @nickstinnett933
      @nickstinnett933 4 роки тому

      I am new to owning a Jeep i have a 2002 liberty 4×4 and i know nothing about lift kits what would you recommend?

    • @MicDropBBQ
      @MicDropBBQ 4 роки тому

      Please subscribe to my Jeep channel! Going to add Cassie's channel too.

    • @fhuber7507
      @fhuber7507 4 роки тому

      I put a 100 amp fuse at the battery for my winch.
      Overkill for my little winch. But if there's a dead short of the wiring it will blow the fuse right at the battery.

    • @josephsepulveda8819
      @josephsepulveda8819 3 роки тому

      After watching your video and everything I could find on the APEX winch this is the one I went with. I highly recommend getting the warranty. 👍🏼

    • @robertemmons2260
      @robertemmons2260 3 роки тому

      Ironically I've watched Cassie's LS swap video before I have even though of purchasing the Badlands 12,000# winch. Both her video on the LS swap and your video on the HF winch were great! Thank you for your out of the box install review!

  • @stephenhunter6507
    @stephenhunter6507 3 роки тому +41

    Running the winch in the rain is great until you slip in the mud and lose your glasses only to find out a dilophosaurus is sitting in your passenger seat.

  • @hamboneva
    @hamboneva 4 роки тому +70

    I've had the Apex for several months and used it quite a bit with no problems.. I really like it so far.

    • @michael102
      @michael102 2 роки тому

      How is it after a year Chad?

    • @hamboneva
      @hamboneva 2 роки тому +7

      @@michael102 I still use it quite often and really like it and I have had zero problems.

  • @LetsDoThis321
    @LetsDoThis321 3 роки тому +53

    Harbor Freight is going through a lot of changes lately hopefully they bring back some of the great coupon deals they use to have.

    • @rcmike09
      @rcmike09 3 роки тому +1

      499 this weekend

    • @edwrench4796
      @edwrench4796 2 роки тому +2

      Prices will continue to rise on Chinese imports as they eliminate American competition.

    • @beborosa2210
      @beborosa2210 2 роки тому +10

      @@michael102 thanks to Brandon 👍👍

    • @jaygilley2223
      @jaygilley2223 Рік тому

      Got mine for $475 lady month in Seattle

    • @johnspartan3405
      @johnspartan3405 2 години тому

      450 here. Finally got it in the bumper yesterday.

  • @Brahmb
    @Brahmb 3 роки тому +6

    This winch is PHENOMENAL!!! I have the 12k lb winch on my Gladiator. I used it first to help a buddy hoist a culvert into slide position for his son’s treehouse. Then I pulled a 6" diameter tree off a trail. Finally, I used it at least a dozen times to move through deep snow and turn the Gladiator around 180*. It pulls out easily, goes back on fine and more than easily handles the weight of the Gladiator.

  • @siklegend
    @siklegend 4 роки тому +25

    I had a 9500 lbs badlands winch from 2016 for 3 years and it held up very nicely, took trees out of the road pulled huge trucks out of the ocean, pulled people out of the mud ect. And it never quit, I think badland winches are a little underrated just because of their price and that they don't come from an official offroad company.

    • @ebayturboproductions6133
      @ebayturboproductions6133 4 роки тому +3

      Josh Drendel it’s funny because the older badlands from HF are identical rebranded smitybuilt winches

    • @franco4201
      @franco4201 3 роки тому +1

      I used My Badlands winch every day pulled 5 car or better a day died after 3 years n I abused it every day pulled even what I shouldn't have been pulling. I'm replacing it with another one highly recommended it

    • @dieselram05
      @dieselram05 2 роки тому +1

      Mine lasted a year…barely used

    • @vincesmith764
      @vincesmith764 Рік тому

      @@dieselram05 warn sucker

  • @steventrevino972
    @steventrevino972 3 роки тому +8

    Thanks for reviewing. I just bought the Apex because my old HF Badlands 12000 started drawing power down from the battery. That winch was with me for 5 years and performed multiple life and equipment saving pulls over those years in the Rockies, Moab, and the Rubicon. So people can say what they want about badlands but I had one that paid itself off 100 fold and expect the Apex to perform well also. It comes with some very nice add ons in the box and feels like a great value. Like with any winch I hope to never need it but I’m confident it will perform when the time comes. As confident as I would be with any other new out of the box brand on the first few hard pulls, you just never know till you know.

  • @jaimeherrerajr.3651
    @jaimeherrerajr.3651 4 роки тому +12

    I had mine for 6 months now. Used it several time and it works really great honestly.

    • @YJKadventure
      @YJKadventure 4 роки тому +1

      cowboy Herrera how much did you get it for? And how much did the protection plan cost you?

  • @UncleRayRayGarageEmporium
    @UncleRayRayGarageEmporium 4 роки тому +17

    I was taught to always be watching the spool of the winch when pulling. It takes very little angle to get it to wind on one side of the spool and start to operate outside the proper diameter. If you are alone and have to use it the way you demonstrated, get out every 10 feet and check. Reset if needed.

  • @holnugget
    @holnugget 4 роки тому +15

    I no joke was looking to buy this today. There is a 20% off coupon and it seemed to have everything I would need. Thanks for posting the video!

    • @zandersmith6960
      @zandersmith6960 4 роки тому +3

      holnugget there was a 25% Mother’s Day coupon today! And I’m broke...

    • @sgg17003
      @sgg17003 4 роки тому

      Don't forget, you can add the coupons to the "everything off in the store" sales. That's how I buy Harbor Freight stuff.

    • @c4onmylip
      @c4onmylip 4 роки тому

      I just bought one a few weeks ago with the coupon, It was only around 600 bucks with the 2 year, no questions asked warranty.

    • @consaka1
      @consaka1 4 роки тому +1

      All the coupons I have seen exclude the winches.

    • @charlesgarner3288
      @charlesgarner3288 3 роки тому

      I was not allowed to use my 20% coupon on this winch. Asked the manager and he said that I counldn't on any badland product. He even went a anounced it over the intercom.

  • @MrSnoop1987
    @MrSnoop1987 4 роки тому +4

    I been waiting on someone to do a honest review on this witch thanks Ben.

  • @slipknot7424
    @slipknot7424 3 роки тому +15

    The ultimate test is hooking it up in a tree and pulling the Jeep up of the ground, we hooked ours up to the bottom of a train bridge and pulled it completely off the ground, fun times. 👍🏻🇺🇸

    • @ryandavis4689
      @ryandavis4689 3 роки тому +1

      Would be badass to watch

    • @robertsonfamily2536
      @robertsonfamily2536 3 роки тому +1

      And pull the tree on to the Jeep...brilliant

    • @olivertaylor8788
      @olivertaylor8788 3 роки тому

      Ha ha now thats one way to get hang time,bigg air.heck,just leave it way up there,they make good bird houses.

  • @kraigkaiser1961
    @kraigkaiser1961 4 роки тому +1

    I mounted the Apex onto our Jeep back in February and used it extensively in February and it works well!!

  • @user-lu9hq6jv4v
    @user-lu9hq6jv4v 4 роки тому +2

    It is so cool watching you and your wife working with the tools! Thanks

  • @danarteritano1340
    @danarteritano1340 4 роки тому +15

    I have this winch, like you said they set the bar high with the waterproof rating and line speed. It was an easy install. I did some tests and it works great. HF has coupons all the time so you could get it for $500-600.

    • @andrewk8636
      @andrewk8636 4 роки тому +5

      What coupons? I never see any that work on the apex winch

    • @troyblume51
      @troyblume51 Рік тому

      Yep. I used a 25% off yesterday. OTD price, $526

    • @scottdaniels2877
      @scottdaniels2877 Рік тому

      I got one yesterday, $480 with a 20 percent off coupon.

  • @jagers4xford471
    @jagers4xford471 4 роки тому +2

    I have a badlands 12K winch on my Bronco, I love it. Unlike what wizbang saying them being unreliable, I've never had it fail me, not like my friend's superwinch. In fact I pulled his Jeep out of a swamp only two weeks ago. The Badlands winch pulled so hard on the 16K rope, it shredded the internals of the rope. Buy a badlands winch, you won't regret it.

  • @dorsk84
    @dorsk84 4 роки тому +9

    I have the previous version on this. I had to change the grease in the planetary gears, and seal up the control box. I had to get the remote separate, and get a cover for it. Now I need to contemplate getting one of these new ones. And after all of that. It's still a beast. I have literally pulled a small sunk boat out of the pond I live on.

    • @brucehirsch5437
      @brucehirsch5437 4 роки тому +1

      @ well. You obviously knew what he meant though. And I am willing to bet so will/has everyone else who read his comment.

    • @brucehirsch5437
      @brucehirsch5437 4 роки тому

      I have the older model too. The non APEX one. How did you seal up the control box? Thought it was already sealed?

    • @dorsk84
      @dorsk84 4 роки тому

      @ Yes. That's what I ment.

    • @dorsk84
      @dorsk84 4 роки тому +2

      @@brucehirsch5437 The bottom of the control box had these little "drain holes". And the top and bottom had no gasket between the halves. So....RTV to the rescue. Filled the narrow channel where the two halves met with RTV, let it set. Then screwed them together. The holes where covered with small pieces of Flex Tape (that stuff is ridiculously good). I also put in a high grade grease into the gears, cause the stuff it came with was a joke.

    • @c4onmylip
      @c4onmylip 4 роки тому +2

      @ Damn dude, don't suffocate on the smell of your own farts there.

  • @WaitWhat-jy9ck
    @WaitWhat-jy9ck 4 роки тому +3

    Thanks for the review Ben. I've been researching winches and this really helped narrow my decision down. HF has really stepped up their game with the introduction of this series of winches. For its included features, that are options on other brands, that price out about three to four times the sale price of the Apex of $500. Even at the MSRP of $750. it's hard to beat. I think I'll take a chance with the Apex.

    • @WaitWhat-jy9ck
      @WaitWhat-jy9ck 4 роки тому +1

      Web Dev does the Smittybuilt come as a 12,000 pound with synthetic line and a wireless (or wired) remote?

  • @outdoorstudios2022
    @outdoorstudios2022 4 місяці тому

    Thanks for sharing, thank you Ron, from rural life with Ron for bringing me here.

  • @kraigkaiser1961
    @kraigkaiser1961 4 роки тому +7

    Like said before, just turn on the power disconnect switch when you hit the trail. I think it's a great to to have in line to the winch.

  • @roughpatchroad
    @roughpatchroad 4 роки тому +13

    Love my apex winch has gotten me out of multiple pinches already! Great winch reviewed it and thumbs up 👍🏽

  • @icdproductions
    @icdproductions 4 роки тому +11

    Thanks for hanging out in the rain for that test! 😆

  • @dannyeugenewaits9486
    @dannyeugenewaits9486 3 роки тому

    Great review! I've had mine for over a year now, many many uses during the time I purchased it and still working Great! Thank gawd I live in Montana! Never even noticed that their was a pandemic going on...the price you pay for living away from the crowds! Just the few of us and the coyotes roaming our wide open world!! Cheers!

  • @shanecummings5178
    @shanecummings5178 4 роки тому +2

    I’ve been looking at this winch for a bit. Thank you for making a video on it!

  • @dustyrieck7939
    @dustyrieck7939 4 роки тому +5

    I agree that it needs a cover to protect the synthetic line from sunlight UV. Good value.

  • @hansont821
    @hansont821 3 роки тому +1

    Thanks for the review, I just bought one and looking forward to it. Love your channels, keep up the good work.

  • @fbtippmann
    @fbtippmann 4 роки тому +1

    Awesome dedication filming in the rain! I appreciated seeing the unboxing and test pull through the ditch. However, I think your comment about pulling up a grade was a bit misleading. The winch line wouldn't see the full weight of the vehicle until the vehicle was hanging vertically. Your points about pulling over rocks and out of deep mud were very accurate and the best reasons to buy what seems like an oversized winch. FWIW the doubling of line capacity with a snatch block does come with a halving of the speed. Better to be safe than fast!

  • @joerivs80
    @joerivs80 4 роки тому

    I was just researching this winch two days ago. Looking at reviews, price comparison, etc. then this video popped up! Thank you. I think I’m sold. I have a Renegade Trailhawk and I think I’ll be getting this winch for it for sure.

  • @bobvedder2451
    @bobvedder2451 2 роки тому +3

    That power disconnect might be a good antitheft device for the jeep itself. Hide the cutoff somewhere you can access easily, but not in plain view.

  • @Zoro4rk
    @Zoro4rk 4 роки тому +4

    Love your videos! Extremely informative and really like that you test the product and give instant feedback. This is why I subscribed to you and reasons why you’re #1 in jeep parts reviewing IMO! 😁 Keep it up brotha!

  • @jmjl1994
    @jmjl1994 4 роки тому +3

    I've had a badlands ZXR 12000 on my jeep and have actually used it more than I thought I would have. Never had one issue out of it except for the time that I pulled the cable completely out but that was 100% due to operator error.

    • @Mtg_MoBrocks
      @Mtg_MoBrocks 4 роки тому

      jmjl1994 so I was looking at the zxr 12000 > the apex because of price and steel cable. How’s the water proofing on the xzr and do you prefer the steel cable I think I would? The only thing I like about the apex is the water proofing and wireless remote but I don’t think that’s worth the extra $300 if you’re saying the zxr 12k is decent.

    • @jmjl1994
      @jmjl1994 4 роки тому +1

      @@Mtg_MoBrocks I havent had it submerged or anything but it's been used in pretty heavy rain and cold temperatures and hasn't had any issues yet. As for the cable, I like it so far. I havent had one with rope yet so I cant really compare the two. Everytime I use it though, I always clean it up when i get home and make sure that I respool it "correctly" (which basically I hook it up to a car and pull it up the hill to me) but that's more of me being a bit of a perfectionist but it also let's me inspect the entire cable so I know it's good to go the next time I need it.

    • @Mtg_MoBrocks
      @Mtg_MoBrocks 4 роки тому

      jmjl1994 perfect I think I’m going to go with the zxr 12k it’s $200 less and it says there is a wireless remote also.

  • @jimschmidt4089
    @jimschmidt4089 4 роки тому +4

    I just picked up one of these a few months ago. Haven't had the chance to use it on the trails yet.
    Great to hear your opinions and thoughts on it. Thank you Ben for the international video. 😊👍

  • @jimmierpadgettjr
    @jimmierpadgettjr 4 роки тому +2

    Great videos! On the power switch cut off... little story! We were at roush creek with our club from Connecticut and one of our members had a jk I was the vehicle right behind him and about 15 minutes into the morning trip he flexed on a trail and it started on fire! He had ran his positive cable between the radiator support support and frame... big fire but plenty of fire extinguishers and quick removal of positive terminal ending it... bad news was we had to pull him out! Fried his ECM... roush people connected him with a Jeep garage about an hour away and he was back on the trail with us on Saturday but a couple grand lighter🤦🏻‍♂️

  • @joedavis8072
    @joedavis8072 4 роки тому +1

    Got the same on my Rubicon JL. It's a beast. Pulled a F-150 out the mud couple weeks back, not one issue. I wired mine to my aux switch too. I didn't Iike the battery switch either.

  • @connorrice630
    @connorrice630 4 роки тому +4

    I may need to get a Harbor freight winch that thing looks 🔥. Great Video Ben!

  • @brianglave539
    @brianglave539 2 роки тому +1

    2 things about the battery disconnect switch. I think Steven Toronto's comment probably explains why it was included. Previous winches started to draw power from the battery, then this is a cheap work around. I also think the disconnect would be very useful for those that mount this on a trailer. You can hook the winch to its own deep cycle battery and disconnect the battery when it's not in use.

  • @eeassa
    @eeassa 4 роки тому +2

    Thumbs up for filming in the rain!

  • @jkDLux1
    @jkDLux1 4 роки тому

    Had the old badlands winch for 4 years now, works great. Just have to let it cool down after 30 seconds. Its pulled me out 4 times and is totally worth it

  • @ryananderson5552
    @ryananderson5552 4 роки тому +1

    i like the idea of using the moving blanket in your work space

  • @danielsmith7951
    @danielsmith7951 3 роки тому

    You did a good job showing that it really works

  • @evanbronstein3126
    @evanbronstein3126 4 роки тому

    Like a few others, I just installed this winch. I got mine once I saw a 20% discount coupon. It’s a great deal and one that I couldn’t pass up. Fit my Poison Spyder stubby, recessed bumper perfectly. I opted to install the disconnect switch. On my 2017 JK there was an unused bolt hole along the side wall near the battery. Used it and a 3x3 SS angle to mount the switch.

  • @PrinceOfEville
    @PrinceOfEville 4 роки тому

    Didn't even need to watch, just liked it. Have been waiting for a real review on this for a while now! On a side note, it looks pretty dang similar to the warn china series.

  • @JEEPIMPACT
    @JEEPIMPACT 4 роки тому +2

    Thanks for the video, I just purchased one of these and I plan on installing it on the Gladiator when I get home in a few weeks.

  • @Phil4222
    @Phil4222 7 місяців тому

    Matts off road uses them on all their rigs and they do this for a living. That was all I needed to know

  • @recnepsgnitnarb6530
    @recnepsgnitnarb6530 4 роки тому

    I had a Bandlands 12K pound winch on my Suburban. Worked great, never an issue with it.

  • @adamaldinger6960
    @adamaldinger6960 4 роки тому +2

    If only there was a Harbor Frieght near me in Anchorage, Alaska. Looks like a good package for not a bad price

  • @SweatyCommando
    @SweatyCommando 4 роки тому

    ive always wanted to run a winch but honestly i just love the way my truck looks stock and dont wanna change the bumper to make it winch friendly. super informative video about this winch though

  • @toddhoffmaster6057
    @toddhoffmaster6057 4 роки тому

    That is a good looking and appears to be well built winch. I have used Badlands winches on my flatbed trailers and they always worked when they were needed to pull something up onto the trailer. As you stated earlier, inexpensive extended warranty and available in almost every city when/if needed.

  • @corbind.9395
    @corbind.9395 4 роки тому +2

    Ayyye! That's the first winch I've ever owned. Just I stalled it a few weeks ago.

  • @josephmcclure6229
    @josephmcclure6229 4 роки тому +1

    Great job. Cant wait to see how it holds up.

  • @aprojectile4421
    @aprojectile4421 4 роки тому

    Finally. I’ve been looking at the apex since it came out. Thanks Ben

  • @joshuafrahm8778
    @joshuafrahm8778 3 роки тому +3

    One thing I did find on this winch, the chrome plating on the spool lever does not like snow/salt if you live in a snowbelt state.

    • @brutallyhonestmf5578
      @brutallyhonestmf5578 3 роки тому

      Can you remove it and maybe have it powder coated? Or is a fixed part? Im curious because I live in north Ohio and hate rust lol.

    • @joshuafrahm8778
      @joshuafrahm8778 3 роки тому

      @@brutallyhonestmf5578 idk, I haven't tried yet. That might be a good idea though.

  • @thebunkerhillboys
    @thebunkerhillboys 4 роки тому +1

    Pretty killer review ! In depth and a lot learned !!

  • @alfonsoovalle9055
    @alfonsoovalle9055 4 роки тому

    Keep it going thank you for reviewing stuff for people with small to medium budget

  • @dylanowens3173
    @dylanowens3173 2 роки тому +1

    I don't have the apex but the cheaper badlands zxr 12k lbs got for $280. I put it on a hitch mount to move around , put on synthetic rope, and a non metal fairlead. It works just fine and doesn't sit out in weather bring it in on the hitch mount. With the synthetic rope it doesnt bind up like a metal rope saving the motor . Apex look nice but if on a budget the zxr for under $300 is a deal too.

  • @jakobwest4811
    @jakobwest4811 4 роки тому +4

    I was tempted to get this winch but I ended up getting the Smittybuilt X20 for a little cheaper. It is nice that the badland comes with a fairly thick fairlead, really helps with those angled pulls. It looks thicker than the factor 55 1.5" surprisingly.

  • @VictorVectorJKU
    @VictorVectorJKU 4 роки тому +6

    Good review Ben! I never really considered the badlands series winch from hearing bad reviews about the earlier generations. I will be interested if you do a review in a year after using it a good amount!

    • @tommybomber
      @tommybomber 4 роки тому +2

      People always badmouth anything that is harbor freight. My dad's had the 12k badlands on his tj for a couple years now. I've been considering one for my dodge dakota.

    • @VictorVectorJKU
      @VictorVectorJKU 4 роки тому +2

      Thomas Mcmullen I was in a pinch and needed to throw a winch on my jeep and ended up picking one up. I’ve used it twice now and it has gotten the job done so I have no complaints so far. And it it nice all the extra components it comes with!

    • @rogerlehr7991
      @rogerlehr7991 4 роки тому +1

      Thomas Mcmullen Not sure but I heard Warn makes those

  • @haloprogabriel
    @haloprogabriel 4 роки тому +2

    Bought this winch a couple of months ago. Love it. Wanted to run something different and love the color scheme of it aswell. Not a fan of the looks of the Warn. Payed $500 for this when it was on sale regular price is $749 and comes with a lot of stuff.

  • @norsefalconer
    @norsefalconer 4 роки тому +29

    My experience with HF is that I get either a Wednesday built tool, or a Friday built tool.

    • @Rick_Sanchez_C137_
      @Rick_Sanchez_C137_ 4 роки тому +1

      Norsefalconer
      Meaning great design with inconsistent (or no) Quality Control....

    • @charleswright86
      @charleswright86 4 роки тому +1

      @Oskar Dirlewanger and NO Margaritta Mondays or taco Tuesdays!

  • @jameschrisdavis
    @jameschrisdavis 4 роки тому +1

    They make large 12v fuses or even circuit breakers for marine /rv applications. You do not need to isolate the battery with a switch in order to be safe in the event of a grounded wire.

  • @foihdzas
    @foihdzas 4 роки тому +2

    Great information here Ben. I am in the market for a winch, and the Warn VR Evo 10 was my pick, but seeing this may change my mind. Both made in china... I'm looking forward to another review once the world situation changes.

  • @realbob6669
    @realbob6669 4 роки тому +2

    Thanks, great video. I would pit the battery cut-off in the hood, but turn it on before trial, part of being prepared.

  • @goodtimes6184
    @goodtimes6184 4 роки тому

    I feel like this winch is the little brother to warn winches. And depending on your offroading adventures , I honestly believe this winche would suit many people very well, now if you're are doing a bunch of nonsense with it, or you are a very serious wheeler using a winch every weekend or more than normal, then snag something with more of a warranty or a name so u don't feel like u bought wranglers instead of Levi's, or it sounds like u need to re adjust your driving style or your vehicle, a winch serves a purpose and again just like any jeeps mods or builds , buy what suits your needs, great video man, and very tasteful Jeep collection.👍

  • @timwatkins3828
    @timwatkins3828 4 роки тому +9

    5:00 in: and I did that exact same thing yesterday with a nut into the body of the Jeep with the doors off, had to remove rock slider, and 4 bolts from the front quarter panel to get it out.

    • @thead10
      @thead10 4 роки тому +5

      If it was me, it would still be there!

  • @mthewolf1095
    @mthewolf1095 4 роки тому +1

    I work an industrial job and my boss bought Bauer (HF brand) impacts and drills. WOW, they have lasted and they take a serious beating. Most stuff from HF is cheaply made, but it seems that Bauer is putting out some really good tools.

    • @JKGearandGadgets
      @JKGearandGadgets  4 роки тому

      Yep! I’ve been using their impact for a while now and it’s held up great.

  • @mistercamaro1
    @mistercamaro1 4 роки тому

    I have been curious about this winch. I wouldn't be afraid to run it. 👍🏽👍🏽💯

  • @jairosendsit8667
    @jairosendsit8667 4 роки тому +3

    I was literally gonna buy this thanks for review love the channel made sure to drop a like

  • @kaoticmotorsports872
    @kaoticmotorsports872 4 роки тому

    Thanks for the information. This is one of the winches I'm looking at putting on my Jeep Cherokee XJ when I get it ready for a winch.

  • @markremillard5135
    @markremillard5135 3 роки тому

    I bought one today thanks for the review I haven't heard anything bad yet about this winch it's been all good or great

  • @edwrench4796
    @edwrench4796 2 роки тому +2

    Tha hard-core sales job is in full force. It's too bad that American manufacturers cannot compete
    against sweatshop labor and price dumping.

  • @nathanwoodard7661
    @nathanwoodard7661 4 роки тому

    Can’t wait for the follow up video! Very curious to see if it last.

  • @MNDashcam
    @MNDashcam 2 роки тому +1

    Just scored one with a wireless remote for $150

  • @1fsttoy
    @1fsttoy 4 роки тому +8

    I’m a fan of the wireless remotes ever since I ran over my remote cord and snapped it in half while not paying attention...

    • @stevenbridgman7446
      @stevenbridgman7446 4 роки тому +2

      Oops!

    • @Rick_Sanchez_C137_
      @Rick_Sanchez_C137_ 4 роки тому

      1fsttoy
      Just an FYI, people are more likely to die from vehicle than a firearm.... PAY ATTENTION when using a vehicle...
      (/End Public Service Announcement)

  • @RidgeRunner304
    @RidgeRunner304 4 роки тому

    Thanks Ben! This came out after I had picked up my SB winch, but I did just go grab the hook this winch comes with to replace my SB one!

  • @Mauser1965
    @Mauser1965 4 роки тому

    With a different perspective... Having a higher rated winch makes sense, as over time as this units operating temperature might go up over time. No different than choosing a 3/8" inch breaker, or using a 1/2" inch breaker which is heavier plus longer making it easier to loosen things up. I'm undecided if I'm going to install another secondary (AGM) battery in a '89 XJ project which I have to decide if it's easier to do a rear bumper install, with an isolator and heavy fuses at both ends for safety. I also have a 2k watt inverter which one can use 120v 8A devices, such as my Kobalt 1/2 corded impact wrench and other such light duty tools anywhere. Watched this while drinking some coffee waiting for a break in the rain to do more Jeep maintenance, though I'd rather be out on the trail as the fair weather people stay home to complain about the rain here in Washington State. Thank you for the content coverage, as the project only has the dash and front seats installed and everything else has been stripped out with no rushing a completion time. So for seeing this at this moment is perfect as I am doing all my own work.

  • @trevorrandall1609
    @trevorrandall1609 4 роки тому +3

    I have it on my jku and it's pretty freaking nice and works every time i need it too

  • @fredwolf327
    @fredwolf327 4 роки тому

    It looks like a winner, and it performs very good , the winch looks great and as most people only use a winch once in a while it should last a long time. Harbor Freight has a great design and a complete package with all of the options available. I would give it a try if I needed another winch

  • @asperbergers7136
    @asperbergers7136 4 роки тому +11

    @11:40 Ahh Chaffing gear, we used much larger ones in the Navy on our mooring lines.

  • @michaelhalstead64
    @michaelhalstead64 4 роки тому +1

    Good video! Thanks dude. By the way, that front bumper on the LJ looks dope!!!

  • @tonymengela3575
    @tonymengela3575 Рік тому

    word of advise get a sleeve for the front of the line, synthetic cables degrade under UV, at the very least find a good uv protectant for the line. I live in Florida where its extremely important, I run a 4 foot sleeve with a soft hook for the exposed part so when its wound no line is showing to the light. with soft ball hook you can easily add a big hook if needed but rarely need it

  • @ShowMeAdventuring
    @ShowMeAdventuring 4 роки тому

    I’ve been running Badlands for a while now. On my second Jeep with one. Love it. Has never let me down. Pulled stumps with it on a WJ.

    • @stevenhorsefield2909
      @stevenhorsefield2909 4 роки тому

      Same here I have the 12000k. It's never let me down why pay more for this fancy version when the Badlands does just as good.

  • @davidcox2197
    @davidcox2197 3 роки тому

    That LJ is awesome with its new engine. Makes me want one. Badlands winch seems very adequate perhaps even overkill for that rig.

  • @EricCantin
    @EricCantin 4 роки тому

    That battery disconnect can prevent an electrical fire if that positive power winch wire gets pinched during an accident. I have the same battery disconnect and turn on power to the winch before heading into the trail, and turn it off while air up the tires.

  • @bimmerDallasBikersUnitedDBUCan
    @bimmerDallasBikersUnitedDBUCan 3 роки тому

    My people under estimate harbor freight because it's not an expensive brand or top $$ brand but I speak for myself when I say 85% of my tool and stuff I have are harbor freight except my impact drills, but their tools are amazing never had issues with them I do lots of mechanic work here at my home(Motorcycle and now my ford Bronco, and for 100% I'm buying one of these winches

  • @paulellsworth7679
    @paulellsworth7679 Рік тому

    Another reason to get a bigger winch rating than the actual weight of your vehicle is that not a single one of them will do what they are actually rated for. Especially the cables!

  • @bogotstogoskiing
    @bogotstogoskiing 4 роки тому

    What. That is a good deal! I really like the bracket cables to mount the control box elsewhere. I picked up a Smittybilt last year and had to make everything myself. Wasn't a huge deal but that's definitely a nice touch.

  • @ojbarberena7090
    @ojbarberena7090 3 роки тому

    Time for an update on this winch. Thanks

  • @chadrapier6795
    @chadrapier6795 4 роки тому +1

    If your winch has a wireless control system, you GOTTA install a disconnect switch. With hundreds of thousands of wireless devices using the same frequencies, you're going to come across other devices using the same or similar signals. If you winch is powered full-time, you could find that your it suddenly gets triggered by a stray signal from some other device and starts running without you "hitting the button". This can be disastrous (imagine spooling line out as you drive down the freeway) or destructive (imagine your winch sitting in the parking lot for 60 seconds trying to pull line in while you are inside ordering a smoothie).
    I'm a big fan of using non-RF controls for winches (aka wired controllers) because wireless controllers can be finicky and unreliable, or the controller battery could be dead when you need it. But if you choose to run a wireless controller, do yourself a favor and run a battery disconnect.

    • @JKGearandGadgets
      @JKGearandGadgets  4 роки тому +1

      I should have mentioned that on the winch (where you plug in the remote), there is a wireless on/off switch.

    • @chadrapier6795
      @chadrapier6795 4 роки тому

      @@JKGearandGadgets This is a good thing! Important detail. Glad you clarified.

  • @dienekes4364
    @dienekes4364 3 роки тому +16

    One comment I'd like to make about the HF warranty: you can take the item back for ANY reason within the warranty period and get another one. The _only_ thing you would need to do is pay for another warranty. So, if a 2-year warranty costs $50 (I don't know what it actually costs, but I could see 10% being reasonable), every 2 years you get a brand new winch for $50. For the rest of your life. Seriously, I've never seen any warranty as good as HF has.

    • @kpfeiffer8775
      @kpfeiffer8775 10 місяців тому +6

      I think we would all love a new wench every two years, but i think they sell winches :(

    • @dienekes4364
      @dienekes4364 10 місяців тому

      @@kpfeiffer8775 -- They sell both, but thanks for wasting everyone's time and attention childishly pointing out a simple spelling mistake. I bet you're the life of the party, right?

    • @w9006
      @w9006 10 місяців тому

      @@kpfeiffer8775you must be a fun person to be around smooth brain

    • @minitruckinaintdead7142
      @minitruckinaintdead7142 7 місяців тому +1

      A 2 year on the apex 12k is like 250 bucks but will save ya haveing to replace a almost 750$ Winch

    • @TheWuky22
      @TheWuky22 7 місяців тому +2

      The only childishness is you getting butt hurt that someone pointed out your spelling error as a JOKE. I get it, spelling doesn’t matter to some people… they’re called stupid people.

  • @19882fast4u
    @19882fast4u 4 роки тому

    Harbor freight winches are actually really good if you take the first step and set them up right, re-seal/lub/grease them correctly from the start. They get a lot of bad rap from non-users and from people that don't really know how to use a winch. I've had the original 12k winch from harbor freight for over 5 years before the brushes wore out. I replaced them, and it's still in-service for me today. A little note, most of harbor freights biggest winch problems came from their inline winch protection fuse block to the battery (and not the actual winch)....... That they supplied with their winches. These would cause power issues, and early power cut off to the winch because of fuse overheating issues. They would burn out and cause the winch to become weak when pulling even on flat ground, or not to work at all. Simple fix, buy an aftermarket fuse block. Personally, I've owned almost all their winches and still do, and really like them. Yes I've used faster line speed name-brand winches, with bigger drums, but at an extremely higher price for those 2 comfort's. And harbor freight actually has really good rated cable/rope/synthetic lines when it comes to cable strength ........ If you look it up on the International Cable Chart online, compaired to other companies and the cables they use.

  • @OverlandCitrus
    @OverlandCitrus 4 роки тому +1

    I have this same winch I love it works great for my needs and it looks great

  • @MichaelCook1981
    @MichaelCook1981 4 роки тому

    Someone on Fakebook, said it was built in the same factory as the Warn winch. I can't find anything to substantiate that claim. I think it looks more similar to the Smittybilt winch. I know a lot of people swear by the Warn winches, but they've only used them maybe once or twice. I saw on Harbor Freight has it for sale for $499. plus 20% off can't really beat it.

  • @cowboynidaho
    @cowboynidaho 4 роки тому +2

    A good rule of thumb is take the weight of your vehicle and double it because mud is sticky

  • @ninja63639
    @ninja63639 4 роки тому +1

    Also winch ratings are only on the first spool full of wire. Every roll after the first, the load rating drops drastically so that 12k winch at 20 or 30 feet might only be pulling 9k or less

  • @paulhiebert1887
    @paulhiebert1887 2 роки тому

    I would install the battery disconnect, if I'm doing some serious off roading, I air down my tires and do a quick check on my engine components and fluid levels. I would turn on the power to the winch at that time.

  • @bendayho
    @bendayho 4 роки тому

    Thanks for the great video and thorough testing.

  • @jordannathanielballou2637
    @jordannathanielballou2637 4 роки тому

    Great point with replacement and availability! I need a 12K for my Land Cruiser build and the price point is seriously tempting. Thanks!

  • @OvenBak3d360
    @OvenBak3d360 4 роки тому

    My last Jeep outing a xj got really stuck in mud. To get it out we had to attach a jk with a 12,000lbs winch to a tree in the back and a snatch block on a tree in front and it still slid the jk sideways inline with the pull. A 9000 lbs winch tried before we did and couldn’t do it. Always buy a big winch if we all had small winches that Jeep would still be stuck there. We even ripped the back bumper mounts right off the frame trying to tow it backwards

  • @vinjkdiesel3122
    @vinjkdiesel3122 4 роки тому +4

    Can’t wait to see how it does in the real world.

    • @vulcanlogic4480
      @vulcanlogic4480 4 роки тому

      Vin JK Diesel a caveman friend has smoked two of em, but the store stands behind it.
      Third ones going good.

  • @twistedfireman
    @twistedfireman 3 роки тому

    Are you going to do a long term review video on that winch ? That would be so cool !