I've searched all over this forum but can't seem to find details on winch install and operation on the 5th Gen with a hidden winch mount or the SSS slimline hybrid. Mainly what are challenges of accessing the solenoid and the drum release lever if it has one.

Looking at a smithy bit xrc9.5 waterproof wireless with synthetic line and either a SSS hybrid bumper or the UHWMS or Pelfrey bilt hidden winch mount.


Thanks.

I removed the dust cover that runs from the top of the radiator to the grill. It's only on there with plastic rivets. Some folks cut holes in theirs for access but I just pulled the whole thing. This is looking down from the top with the cover removed.

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Honestly? It sucks. I've got the UndercoverHWMS and I'm looking to replace it. Biggest issue is not being able to see the winch line. I have no clue how many wraps are left or if the line is laying straight on the spool. The clutch handle that came with my Warn 8-S is too long to turn it to free spool. This means I have to burn down the motor, heat up the drum and line, just to winch out. I have the wireless remote on mine because there isn't a good way to use the wired remote. While this may not seem like a big deal, but no one in their right mind are going to stick their hands in the spool with a wireless remote in someone else's hands. It looks cool as hell though. I'll be selling mine later this year.

Appreciate the candid feedback. Interested in function as much or more than form, so if it doesn't work easily in actual application I may pass on it. It doesn't sound like the SSS hybrid would be any better. Seems the same issues would come into play.

I may have to consider a full bumper after all...

Thanks.

My picture above is using a SSS bumper. You are looking at the winch motor in the picture. The spool with line is on the right of the motor. Easily visible through the lower grill opening on the 14. My clutch has a T handle about 3" across. Straight pull up and rotate 90 degrees to free spool. I do have to open the hood for the wired remote, but if I'm stuck or helping someone else that's a minor concern. I can lower the hood to it's first latch if I need to. Most newer winches have the clutch assembly made so it can be "clocked" around its axis for ease of access. I can try to get you a better picture but it may take a couple days. I don't get home until after dark most days now.

It's do-able but either cut a hole in the top of the plastic shroud or just get good at contortion. Having access ports in my Pelfrey bumper make it SOOOO much better now.

I do appreciate it.

These were taken during the installation. Here is the winch being installed on the bumper prior to installation in the 4R. The top of the spool is just slightly behind and below the flat part that makes the top of the bumper. This positions the winch within about 3" from the opening for the hawse in the lower plate on the bumper.

If you zoom into the red circle in the 2nd picture you can just make out the shiny T handle for the clutch. I can see the rear half of the spool and line by walking up to the truck and looking down and into the lower grill, or just opening the hood and looking straight down. There is enough visibility to see the line spooling onto the winch and have some control on how it lies on the spool. I have been minus the plastic upper cover for over a year now with no ill effects. I thought about cutting access holes in it but I have Popeye forearms and it was just easier to take it completely off. And I'm not sure why it wouldn't be just as accessible using the HWMS setup if the cover is removed or access holes cut. But I admit I haven't seen one of those up close either. And yes, that is Kevin of Southern Style Speed doing the installation for me.

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Cant speak for all setups but mine is pretty easy to use. Clutch is just reach down under the hood. If your half way handy its easy to remote mount the controls so the plug is up in the engine bay or even in the cab. No need to remote the actual solenoids. Just the plug. I e
went a step further with a master switch, fuse, and relays, but its not necessary. i wanted to make sure someone didn't accidentally turn on the wireless fob and damage something. with the master toggle off its not a concern. Maybe its only on 14 and later but its easy to see the winch rope on the spool on my setup through the grille. 2015 TEP Hidden Winch Build/Install

I see now. You're right, you'd think it'd be easier to see the spool thru the grill inserts regardless of the mounts.

You can search through my build thread for pictures but no issue whatsoever using a Budbuilt and Zeon winch.

There is also a newer version of the Zeon that lets you do everything via the remote if it remains an issue.