What created the need for such heavy duty modifications?

Superwinch S9000

This heavy duty winch, like any electric winch available, requires a large amount of energy to do its job. Most of the time, heavy winching should occur with the engine running, and, if possible, the RPM?s revved up. Since the alternator supplies power while the engine is running, using the winch under these conditions requires a high-output alternator.

To determine the correct size alternator to install, take a look at the winch specifications:

Other times, if the vehicle is submerged or in a position where starting the engine is not possible, the winch can be used, and will pull its power from the battery reserve. Again, to allow the winch full capability, 435 amps must be available. Without the engine running, available amps will quickly disappear as the winch pulls.

As you can see, under the most extreme conditions, the winch will pull almost 450 amps, either from the alternator or the battery, depending on whether the engine is running or not.

The Superwinch S9000 has been a superb choice for Project Trail J. I have used it several times this summer on the Rubicon, with great results. The strong, torque-heavy motor has helped pull broken Jeeps up hills and rock steps without a hiccup.  I pulled Dave Gray's mule-like YJ beast out of Little Sluice after he broke a driveshaft quickly and easily.  Anyone who knows the small slab leading out of the Sluice to the right knows there are a few large rocks that require uplift of a foot or more...piece of cake!

The power of this winch is quite impressive, especially considering it is priced well below its competitors. The weather-resistant aluminum cover keeps the winch cool and ready for action, while the free-spool switch are easy to activate even for a novice user. Installation was a snap, as the winch bolted perfectly up to my Tomken Winch Mount. The 2 gauge power leads were plenty long enough to make the run to my battery.  All hardware was included and very stout.  

The winch comes with a roller fairlead, which is sometimes only included with high-priced winches.  The S9000 also includes a comfortable 12' handheld remote.

Auxiliary Lighting

Its easy to see how all these items can tax the electrical system quickly. Picture a scenario where a vehicle gets stuck during a night run, requiring the use of lighting and the winch to get out. Its very possible that all auxiliary lights would be needed to illuminate the work area. If the key is on for any reason, another 40-80 amps could be drawn off the batteries. These small items, when added together, could add up to a dead battery if no one pays attention!

I ordered the factory 55w fog lights.  Not much power, but a nice supplement for driving on and off road.  They draw almost 5 amps.  I also added four rock lights-lights mounted under the vehicle to illuminate the trail immediately around the vehicle at night.  These are each 55w and can add up to another 20 amps.  Even more...I replaced my reverse lights with the same 55w sealed beam lights I used underneath, another 10 amps if I am backing up. 

That's 40 amps in night driving lights.  55w lights are about the minimum you'd want to use for driving, fog, or off-road lights.  They work great for my needs, but some lights by Hella, PIAA, and KC, used for the same purposes, are rated up to 165 watts or more.  Add four of those on a light bar and watch the amperage draw climb through the roof!  Its easy to see how an upgraded electrical system can satisfy amp-hungry accessories!

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