[joetighe14]

I just got a 2002 Dakota 3.9, and want to put a winch on it. I don't want to put a winch bumper or a front facing hitch. I want it to be hidden and come out above the license plate. Has anyone done this? i am going to try and make a guide, because there are none out there.
Thanks
(see attached picture for where i want the winch)

 

[fox racer]

to be honest, im always for keeping a truck look discreet, however in this scenario i really cannot imagine how any other mounting solution is going to be effective and cost efficient. i used to have the full brush guard (westin) on the front end of my truck and that proved useless. someone backed into it and the rudimentary mounts that were fabricated because the poor front end design, didnt prove strong. all it did was just push the guard in and bend my brackets. if i were able to find the front end hitch for mine i would jump on that because of it's versatility (step to work on the engine for the lifted guys, winch plate/adapter, recovery point, even use on of those hitch covers that has the ram head/light in it, etc).

 

[joetighe14]

Yea i have been looking and can't find anything. I am going to pull my bumper off and see if i can fab something to fit. Im getting one of those small winch plows and want a nice way to mount the winch.

 

[gwilson0117]

the only problem with trying to mount it there is that your radiator and condenser will be it the way and you wont be able to hide it in the bumper like you want.

 

[Crazy4x4rt]

There is a 2nd Gen front mounted hitches available.
http://www.realtruck.com/curt-front-mount-receiver-hitch/31097.html
http://www.etrailer.com/fmr-2000_Dodge_Dakota.htm
I had to custom build mine, on my 93 Dakota and a 2004 Ford F150.



This is pre-SAS.

 

[Domino]

I just got a 2002 Dakota 3.9, and want to put a winch on it. I don't want to put a winch bumper or a front facing hitch. I want it to be hidden and come out above the license plate. Has anyone done this? i am going to try and make a guide, because there are none out there.
Thanks
(see attached picture for where i want the winch)

hey, did you ever get er done? im about to do the same thing and im looking for any guidance.