Yeah, yeah... Harbor Freight. They makers of all things disposable! I really dont plan on using my winch much other than to keep it exercised. And I do plan to take some of it apart to grease it up, water seal it better (as suggested in other posts I found) So today I picked one up. My really question is, have others bough this exact one? harbor Freight might make two types and I am not sure. Some of the threads are not very clear. Form what I can tell and was told by the manager, this is the old model. So this post if two part. Is this the same as others bought? If so, check out your local Harbor Freight, cause these old models are just $249 right now. I picked up the last one at my store. And if this is not the one to get, I will send it back.

 

It should do the job. As long as you make sure to maintain the winch you should be fine

 

I have the 9000lb model on a harbor freight winch tray that I adapted to work as a hidden winch setup.

 

A friend of mine has had the HF 9000lb winch for a couple years.
Lots of use, works great, and never a problem.

 

I too plan on the hidden setup. I just need to find a mount system. I may pick up the Harbor Freight universal plate and modify it to fit like some II guys did. But while it worked for them, not sure if it will on the 3. Need to investigate when I have time. I can weld, so there will probably end up being some custom fab fun when I do it.

 

I don't have a problem with Harbor Freight. I think we all know the risk we take. I have bought a lot of tools and bits and pieces from there over the last few years and mostly its been fine.

 

Remember those same factories that make those winches make the parts for many companies such as warn. Difference between made in america and assembled in america. I have one of these winches on the farm truck has been used and abused and works great. Thinking about getting one for my 3 before I get a red winch explorer. Only reason I want the RW is for the air brake and freespool.

 

the freespool on the red winch is soooo good

 

ArmyRover thats what i've heard..... I really would like to track down the L8 project D3 to see it in action before I drop such a large chunk of change....

 

The LK8 orignal Project D3 has been retired unfortunately. The LK8 Range Rover Sport, however is running a red winch as well and will be out at Vermont Over Land Rover. The new LK8 LR3 has a Warn winch. I have heard rumors of a project LR4 with a red winch hitting the scenes soon.

I over the years ran winch line a lot out of the project D3's red winch and can tell you I love the free spool on it.