Winch Conversion?

[Buzz]

I have a Warn 9000 12V a local guy is looking to sell for some cash. Does it make sense to pick this up and convert it to 24V if I can get a good deal? - Buzz

[kc4mne]

cannot be converted

stick w/ 24V winches only.

[M Wehrman]

I use a 12V winch with 2 big yellow top optimas, in addition to the start batteries. At this time they charge from a roof-mounted solar panel. This also gives me a 12V source for other items. I am fully aware that the solar panel will not quickly recover dead batteries,but if I drain two batteries with my winch,I need to find a tow truck! So is the price of a used 12V winch,solar,and batteries as much as a 24V winch? Especially if a winch could be had reasonable price. If you are talking buying a new winch,well I would definately go 24V,WITH separate batteries just for insurance
Just a thought from a battery freak.
Mark

[grayroad]

When I bought a winch from CWR it was a 12V XD9000 that they converted to 24V. Not sure if Warn did it or CWR under their watchful eyes of Warn but it had full warranty.

[ExpeditionImports]

Converting winches is simple, just purchase the 24V motor sold from numerous motor shops. Even the warn 24V winches use 12V solenoids, just wired differently. It's very simple to convert one over, although usually not very cost effective unless you get a good deal on the winch.

Cheers,

Scott

[mjnims]

Mark
I think you have debunked the rumor that the Harbor Freight 12V winch is no good after the last outing. I seem to remember a 710 that needed a little help from a HF winch and he had a warn on the front. What was it that you paid for the HF winch again?

[EvanH]

I have a 12 V Milemarker winch on the rear of my Pinz. It looks EXACTLY like the Harbor Freight winch. My install is 12V, powered by two batteries in parallel.

Twice I have used it for real, and twice it failed. NOT a good track record for a device that could potentially somehow make a life or death difference.

In my opinion, here is nothing wrong with a installing good 12 V winch...if a quality 12 V winch is what you have, and you have the interest or know-how to make it work. But NEVER go for the cheap way out with a tool or accessory that can stand between you and a favorable outcome....

Logically, if the price of the 12 V winch plus a battery or two, plus the cost of a means of charging the 12 V battery (solar converter, etc.) is less than the cost of the 24 V winch, plus you have the electrical know-how to make it all work, why not, if the total cost is lower than a new 24 V winch????

-Evan