Which winch hook/connector do you like best?

[MAG00]

Which winch hook (non-standard type) do you like best and why? The Factor 55 ProLink, Factor 55 Flatlink, Warn Epic Sidewinder, Factor55 ProHook, or another option?

Sponsored

 

[rharr]

No hook, just a loop and a d shackle when needed

 

[whiteglad]

I run the Agency 6.
Billet Winch Shackles - Agency6.com

 

[Jrgunn5150]

My Xbull came with it's own style flat hook, works great.

 

[BennieD]

Factor 55 Ultrahook. Looks great, works great and helps you spend that extra money you have!!

 

[Blade1668]

A simple loop is one of my choices, HF on another, and factory supplied hook on several. Hammer-Lock chain link was what I used first about 25 years ago. For most it's a nose ring for the vehicle.

 

[m-l_johnny]

I use the Freedom winch line from Bleepin Jeep

 

[D_JT]

Factor 55 Flatlink-e. I have one on my TJ and JT.

 

[Jaxmax]

I use a Factor 55 flat link small basic one and most importantly have the line protector on to keep UV off the winch line and even taped electrical tape around the thimble where line might see sun. There are a lot of similar ones out there now, mine requires a shackle to work which I prefer anyway, some newer versions “Pro” versions with hook and larger opening eliminate a second shackle when hooking to something like a tow hitch attachment. For me the extra little bit of shackle work , and the smaller piece on front works for me……Jack

 

[Jessup]

I just installed a winch and it comes with a hook. Why would I replace that hook? Other than having a fancy good looking one that sits sideways?

 

[Bandit’s Lair]

I’m kinda digging the Factor 55 Prolink.

https://www.factor55.com/products/prolink

 

[ChrisNLA]

I’m kinda digging the Factor 55 Prolink.

https://www.factor55.com/products/prolink

I had a Prolink that was given to me on my JK and loved it.

Smittybilt has their own knockoff I'll probably get for the JT at some point. It's at a better price point for me.

Smittybilt A.W.S. – Aluminum Winch Shackle - SB2820
https://a.co/d/0d0tQPef

 

[Bandit’s Lair]

I had a Prolink that was given to me on my JK and loved it.

Smittybilt has their own knockoff I'll probably get for the JT at some point. It's at a better price point for me.

Smittybilt A.W.S. – Aluminum Winch Shackle - SB2820
https://a.co/d/0d0tQPef

It is a cost savings, I just have no confidence in SmittyBilt products from past experience. I got my grubby hands on one of the ProLinks the other day to get a good close hands on look at it and I liked it. I guess the hook types would work too but the Prolink just seems to be simpler. I prefer simple.

 

[Jrgunn5150]

I just installed a winch and it comes with a hook. Why would I replace that hook? Other than having a fancy good looking one that sits sideways?

No one is trying to make you, enjoy your new winch.

 

[ChrisNLA]

It is a cost savings, I just have no confidence in SmittyBilt products from past experience. I got my grubby hands on one of the ProLinks the other day to get a good close hands on look at it and I liked it. I guess the hook types would work too but the Prolink just seems to be simpler. I prefer simple.

I don't personally think ProLink has another $100 worth of engineering into a block of 6061 aluminum with a steel pin through it, more the extra $100 is paying for it to be machined in the US (nothing wrong with that - let me be clear). My memory is fading but I thought I had my hands on the Smittybilt AWS at 4 Wheel Parts once and it was identical as far as I was concerned.

But, nothing I've had from them has failed yet, so I'll trust it.

Price points and products for everyone

Sponsored