What are the pros and cons of bumbers that allow for recessed mounting of a winch versus top mounting (and obstructing more of the grill).

also I am thinking shorty bumper...any downside?

 

For one, I would think the lower center of gravity or stress point is better.

I don't understand your question about the stubby bumper... I don't think bumper size/length matters that much in relation to a winch. Weight, on the other hand, certainly would be a factor.

 

I agree with you there, It would certainly make sense that having it mounted as close to the frame as possible would add more strength as oppesed to over it. Also, I would go with the recessed because it doesn't block as much air flow into the radiator. And stubby vs. full width doesn't make much of a difference, although the stubby will make the front tires less likely to rub the bumper on the trail. If your looking for a stubby look at the rugged ridge xhd stubby. It is fully customizable and is a great price. It is also very well and heavy built, its almost 80lbs

 

IMO, I prefer the winch to sit in the bumper so that the radiator is not blocked too much. Plus, I think the pull will be more solid since the winch will be more or less level with the frame. The con would be accessibility in case of maintenance, the top mounted would be more easy to service.

Regarding a shorty bumper, the major pro is tire clearance and ability to climb over obstacles easier. I've seen full width bumpers get hung up on the corners and not able to get past certain obstacles. The main con is less protection (for me this is more of a concern on-road than off.)

 

as mentioned, mounting a winch down between the frame rails helps to keep the flow of air to the radiator open and this is a good thing. as far as downsides go regarding a shorty bumper, i personally don't know of any. some people don't like the look of them but, from a functionality point of view, they are simply a better option over a full width bumper especially if you wheel you jeep.

 

Take a look at the EVO 1/4 lb bumper. Great price shorty and the winch fits inside.

 

I just bought the RR XHD winch bumper. I think you'd be really happy with it. I liked that the winch was set in the bumper rather than ontop. I feel like the winch is a little more protected being in the bumper and it allows better air flow to the radiator. I was on the fence about getting the end caps to make a full width bumper, but decided to hold off on them. now that I have installed the bumper and driven around a bit, I'm going to leave it short and put the 100+ for the end caps in the new tires/lift fund.

 

check this one out in the for sale section

https://www.jk-forum.com/forums/show...-shorty-bumper

 

I have the lod bumper, it is perfect.

 

Have the benchmark sport - it looks nice and reminds you of a jeep like you are used to seeing. Avoids the steel box look that the stubbies out there remind me of. It is C channel. Has winch cutout to let it sit down in the bumper. Just an option.