Bolt on RockHard winch plate / grille guard for factory Gladiator or Wrangler bumper

[Shaqeroni]

I was just introduced to this sorcery today by a new member Pappyjp21. How many of you knew this existed and failed to tell me before I bought an aftermarket bumper so I could mount a winch? Apparently this company RockHard a makes a bolt-on winch plate and hoop (grille guard) for our JT's, JK's and gasp....Broncos. Now you know. You're welcome. Attached is a picture of his Gladiator (I hope he doesn't mind) with RockHard winch plate and grille guard installed.

YouTube video for JK install:

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[kevman65]

It's been mentioned before, along with the fact that it blocks off more than 50% of the air inlet in the grille. Most people want a recessed winch to avoid blocking air flow.

 

[Shaqeroni]

It's been mentioned before, along with the fact that it blocks off more than 50% of the air inlet in the grille. Most people want a recessed winch to avoid blocking air flow.
[/QUO

It's been mentioned before, along with the fact that it blocks off more than 50% of the air inlet in the grille. Most people want a recessed winch to avoid blocking air flow.

You make a valid point.

 

[Pappyjp21]

It's been mentioned before, along with the fact that it blocks off more than 50% of the air inlet in the grille. Most people want a recessed winch to avoid blocking air flow.

 

[Pappyjp21]

I have heard of this so called issue of blocking air flow to the radiator and I have never had a problem with overheating! I had the same set up on my JK for 12 years with never a smig of temperature rise.You may want to look at the many military units that have similar set up...

 

[Pappyjp21]

08 jk

 

[DublF]

Got mine on Craigslist for $80. Works for me.

 

[Shaqeroni]

Got mine on Craigslist for $80. Works for me.

$80!!!! Nice find

 

[DublF]

$80!!!! Nice find

Yep, got my step rails for $150, Bestop for $400, and the winch plate for $80 all on Craigslist. I scan Craigslist and FB marketplace daily for JT parts deals.

 

[sarguy1941]

I like the plate but worry about cooling with the MAX tow. I'll be towing a camper across the US this summer and while folks dont see an issue with cooling it really looks like it covers alot of the opening..... YMMV

 

[dcmdon]

The reality is that your specific situation is what determines if blocking 40% of the grill is a problem.

If you have a diesel and regularly tow a 5000 lb trailer over the rockies in the summer, then its an idiot move.

If you have a gas truck, don't tow and live on the plains of eastern North Dakota then its a no brainer.
Everyone else falls somewhere in between. For most owners who don't tow, it will be fine.

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