Installing Winch on factory IFS Front End

[89FourRunner]

Does anyone have a write up or information on installing a winch cradle on the factory front end of an IFS 1st gen? I've seen a member floating around who welded a hitch receiver, and I am guessing he bought or fabricaated a craddle that goes into the receiver. What I am looking for is info on placement, and reinforcement before I weld.

I know I can go to a Harbor Freight and get a winch, and a receiver winch mount cheap.

I am looking for info to weld up a receiver properly to the front end, so I don't have to use it in the rear (or buy a custom bumper).

Thanks!

 

[KidVermicious]

TrailGear makes a winch mount that bolts up to the factory crossmember. I used that with a crossmember brace from Low Range (4xInnovations makes one too), and then cut up my stock bumper and welded it to the sides of the winch mount.

You wouldn't have to use the TrailGear mount if you wanted to use a generic winch plate instead, but it takes some of the work out of setting up the receiver and mounting holes. I would definitely plan on plating the frame though, with one of the precut braces or make your own.