Curt also makes a front hitch. "Looks" stronger to me and also seems like it might sit up a tad higher from the ground.

 

Both the Hidden Hitch and Curt frame-mount receivers are straightforward to install and strong. I have the Hidden Hitch, and welded a solid angled ball mount to a steel plate for my carry platform. Would doing this to the winch cradle raise it enough?

 

Yea I have been cutting welding and fabricating 25yrs. I think you can get it up on top and still be easily removed you could use the factroy bumper without the plastic cover with a little reinforcing or any after market bumper that top mounts a winch. Youre idea has interested me as I have never liked the current options for a removable winch.

 

And the more I start shopping around....neither do I.

 

Would love to see a pic of this. Having some trouble envisioning what you're saying.

 

Send me a P.M. if you would like me to sketch you up some ideas I have rolling around in my head.

 

Found this thread looking for a way to quick disconnect the winch power as well as the solenoid/control box mounted under the hood.

Pronghorn Overland has a bumper system with a winch mount that lets you attach the winch on the front, rear or side of the JK.