I haven't looked much into winches yet but from what I've read is that you want a rating 2x that of the vehicle weight. Since these vehicles weigh ~5k depending on load and options that's at least a 10k rating you'd want.

I've always been iffy of that suggestion though because basic physics shows that using a block you need HALF of the force required. So an 8k winch should be able to pull 16k if blocked to an anchor (ie tree), and pulled the correct angle. It's another story doing a direct pull and assuming added force due to being stuck (it wouldn't surprise me to see a 5k vehicle stuck in deep mud requiring 10k+ to be pulled out)

 

chinese baby, chinese. hf and save some coin. slow is fine for seldom use

 

I just got the 12000lb harbor freight special, pulls like a train. I bought the 2year warranty. Which means I will get a new one in a little less than 2 years. 12000 lb Winch and warranty less than 400 with the coupon. That's hard to beat.

 

I've had one of these: , Its been super trusty for me. It's helped me out (and a few other people) in some sticky situations.