Replacing a Warn Winch Rope and Hook Comparison Warn Epic or Factor55 Ultra

www.amazon.com...
This time on the AutoEdits Jeep series, I'll explain how I broke my Warn Synthetic Winch Rope and Ultra Hook on Pritchett Canyon Trail in Moab Utah during the PowerStop Brakes Trail to SEMA. Then I'll show you how to replace the winch rope with a new 100' section of Spydura Rope and change things up a bit by replacing the Factor55 Ultra Hook with a Warn Epic 12,000 lb Hook.
There's a few important things to pay attention to when winding your winch rope for the first time and I'll show you an easy way to get that done.
IMPORTANT! Just so it's crystal clear on what happened to the rope and hook I'm replacing... I drove over the hook as it was attached to an anchor point in the ground and kept driving... side loading the hook clasp and thankfully it gave before breaking anything else more serious on the bumper or front of the Jeep. The rope snapped at the sheer angle against the fairlead as well. We were able to tie the hook right back into place and use it the rest of the trip!
Here's a link to the PowerStop Trail To SEMA Playlist on their youtube channel... Give this a watch... IT'S REALLY GOOD!
• The PowerStop Trail to...
Here are the links to the products used in this video:
www.warn.com/s...
www.amazon.com...
factor55.com/p...

[@Brgnalf81]

This is by far the most useful youtube video on how to replace the winch rope. You rox.

[@AutoEdits]

Hey, thanks!!!!

[@KICROKS86]

hey :) ima journeyman lineman and i would recommend leaving tension on about 90% of ur line while winching it up. and after a recovery on the trails wrap that rope around ur bull bar till u get a chance to properly tension it up. its gonna be real tough tryna get that rope un buggered up from it berrying itself with in its own lays

[@AutoEdits]

Howdy! I really appreciate the input... Thanks!

[@kylevanwinkle2081]

Strap it to another trucks d ring out your truck in neutral and pull it tight. You really dont want to pull over loose layers. This can damage the rope in both wire and synthetic.

[@KICROKS86]

ur welcome, and thank u for all the priceless information ur helping the community out with. i came across ur page looking for valuable info to build the courage to start my 63.5 fastback galexie. i like cars trucks and knowledge. take care brotha happy new years

[@patoz7205]

Warn recommends wrapping all but the last 5' feet under tension, and that is for safety reasons. Besides, I doubt you're going to be anchoring to something 5' away and trying to winch yourself out of a bind. 😀

[@Alex-fu5zr]

After a long day at work nothing better than to hangout and watch some awesome videos... good job Jason ,video was great and I love your dog pinto !

[@AutoEdits]

Thanks so much!!! Glad me and Pinto can entertain ya!

[@Alex-fu5zr]

AutoEdits not a problem

[@RedDeadSpearhead]

Just put my synthetic cable on today, quick tip I learned because mine fought me when I was pushing it through the spool, instead of fighting the cable, tie a smaller rope like paracord to it, and pull with a separate vehicle, 30 minutes of swearing vs 5 seconds of bliss

[@ekspatvos6264]

Great video. Thank you very much for sharing your knowledge. I Just love Pinto. Safe travels. South African follower living in Dubai.

[@AutoEdits]

Howdy!

[@RubiconUnlimited]

Yup those trail to sema videos are great. Can't wait for the next episode. Did I just notice a bottle opener on that ultra hook? yup instantly better.

[@AutoEdits]

Thanks for checking out the Trail to Sema stuff and yes you did notice a bottle opener... I didn't want to seem like a booze hound by pointing that out LOL

[@RubiconUnlimited]

@@AutoEdits haha I almost noticed it right away 🍻

[@ltat2]

Glad you took the time to play with Pinto !

[@MyDatrsPrsnlATM]

I'm definitely going to go with the Warn Epic hook after watching your video. I never really liked the blingy Factor 55 hook for exactly the reason you stated. My wife and I are new Jeepers and aren't scared to get dirty :) so we've already pulled ourselves out with the winch several times. We use tree savers every time and it's really difficult to try and use a small mouthed hook. We love your videos keep 'em coming! Love from Houston, Texas!

[@AutoEdits]

Glad to hear from ya! Yes, the Epic Hook is reliable and straight forward... I have to admit that one of my favorite things about the Factor55 was how fancy it looked but I'm a city boy...LOL Keep Jeepin!

[@kylevanwinkle2081]

The factor 55 isnt designed to be used as a collector itself it's designed to hold a collector shackle or d link. Shackles make things easy if you use them right.

[@HighclassAIM]

Maximum Overdrive😂😂😂 I always thing of that movie when I’m working on machines that can rip my finger, arms, legs, and head off! That movie scared me for life🙈

[@AutoEdits]

HAHA! I'm right there with you man!

[@Quilsen]

Really nice video to watch probably because I like pinto. Every video is presented in that way so I really enjoy watching it.

[@AutoEdits]

Thanks so much! I like Pinto too and really appreciate the support!

[@chipper3722]

Fantastic video. Entertaining and informative. I generally watch 4runner videos but happened upon this video for winch line replacement. Very educational. Hope you and Pinto are well. 4runner guy here subscribed! Also after 2 years of watching 4wheeling videos this is the first one I've ever commented on!

[@mauiman52]

@15:55 Love the silver Stingray in the background

[@mariodesmo]

Good video and I agree with your buddy, the Warn hook is the way to go. I keep my hook/shackle slightly tight on the bumper so the shackle doesn't get taken off and stolen when parked. I've lost a few over the years from dirt bags taking them off. Good Luck!

[@AutoEdits]

Hey thanks!!!

[@butch_cassidy]

Good video thank you. I’m actually in the process of switching mine out. For those that are going to do this if I can add one thing to make it a little easier access those 4 torq screws on the top of the winch can be removed for full access to your spool. It’s much easier than going through the fairlead.

[@AutoEdits]

Good tip.

[@charliebardo6255]

Great video. Now I see some very good reasons for rope over cable. Just plain easyer 👍 hug and scritches for Pinto 💗 . Maximum Overdrive is one of my favorite movies 😎

[@AutoEdits]

THANKS! Rope is a bit safer and easier when used correctly... Pats for Pinto!

[@Cobb]

Maximum overdrive is one of the great B movies I watched as a kid.

[@AutoEdits]

So glad you got that reference! I love that movie as well!

[@Cobb]

@@AutoEdits they had the little military jeep talking to the people in the diner with Morris code.

[@lokirip2372]

It was an A Steven King movie at the time

[@xbpbat21x]

Emilio Estevez...the mighty duck man!!!

[@1111Overland]

Jason, could you do a “damage review” video? I’d love to see what new knicks, bends, chunks, and breaks you encountered during your trail to Sema trip. Especially interested to see how your under armor, Rock sliders, bumpers and fenders fared.

[@AutoEdits]

I'll put that on the list!

[@Troche571]

Another great video, I love how you mentioned your Mentor - and the respect and appreciation we have for those who helped us along the way. I owe my two mentors everything when it comes to my career, and we never forget. Now back to the Warn Ultra Hook vs Factor 55 - my only guess here is that the Factor 55 - shows Made in the USA, I can't find that info for the Warn Hook

[@AutoEdits]

I'm not sure if the Warn hook is made in Oregon like the Winches are but it feels like good quality. To be fully honest, like I say in the video, I really liked the look and feel of the Factor55 better... the old timers like Fred just think expensive jewelry looking things are silly. I'm going to run with the Warn hook this year and see how I like it.

[@Troche571]

@@AutoEdits I contacted Quadratec - "WARN 92090 12,000 lb Epic Winch Hook is Made in China...

[@Troche571]

@@AutoEdits Old Timers like Fred.. right.. I would never second guess the season Vets; but with that said I am finishing up with my CJ5 resto and I had ordered a set of Hooker Headers for the 304, good old American Holley... they came in with a Big Stamp - Made in China... I was so dam disappointed. Love the video's by the way, thanks to you I now have a laundry list of Mods for my RAM. Happy New Year!

[@AutoEdits]

Thanks and Happy New Year to you as well! If I may suggest... I've been a long time user of Flowmaster stuff and they started making headers a while back and I ordered some for my Mustang and they are fantastic... plus American Made!

[@nicolasberchoux3782]

Great video Jason ! As always 😉 and happy new year !!! Hope to watch many new vlogs in 2019...

[@AutoEdits]

Hey thanks! Happy New Year... I hope to deliver a bunch more videos this year!

[@ekspatvos6264]

P.s. thanks a million for explaining the purpose of that red strap on the hook - I've been aching to find out 🤗😃

[@AutoEdits]

You are so welcome!

[@hayden6327]

Saw your truck the other day when I was driving threw town, it looks awesome!!!

[@AutoEdits]

Hey Howdy! Hope I wasn't driving like a maniac.

[@hayden6327]

AutoEdits Nope not at all! It’s so awesome to know that one of my favorite automotive KZbinrs lives in the same town as me!

[@1EddieMan]

Great Vid as always! Very informative... BTW, Pinto is the star of ur channel :)

[@AutoEdits]

Thank you! And yes, Pinto is the best... and I'm happy people like to see her here!

[@commbubba1990]

Great Video - love the Maximum Overdrive reference

[@AutoEdits]

Glad you appreciated that!

[@cam9sec]

Like always great videos, enjoy watching them. Keep up the great work

[@AutoEdits]

Thanks for the support and taking a moment to say so!!!!

[@torebertand6890]

Thanks for all your videos. Your truck ones inspired me to start using what I have (2wd Ram 1500) off road and appreciate it. I'm down in the hills around San Diego. Any chance you'll be putting together a subscriber event where we can all get together and do some wheeling? Camping? Keep up the good work.

[@AutoEdits]

Really glad to hear that! I have been wanting to go on a trip with Trail Recon for a long time now and he is in that general area so we'll see if I can make that happen!

[@head0927]

Great video as always. Wish i had the time and mostly the money to fix up my wrangler lol. Great job.

[@pallendo]

Also, I am not a fan of the UltraHook either, mostly because it encourages a bit more sloppyness in your hookup. I run the Factor55 FlatLink-E on my jeep as you are not able to do a quick-hook and go. It forces you to be safer with every loop being totally closed. I would rather take the extra 30-45 seconds to use a shackle and force myself to think about every connection in the system.

[@AutoEdits]

That is sound logic for sure.

[@ortiz73caify]

Excellent video I’m definitely going to try the winch hook.

[@AutoEdits]

Sweet!

[@Stuka87]

Great video as always. I definitely prefer that Warn hook, it just seems like it is easier to use, and less bulky. Plus the strength difference.

[@AutoEdits]

Thanks dude! I'm not all the way in yet... I miss how great the Ultra Hook looked but I know it's not all about that!

[@officialWWM]

That’s a beautiful Corvette!

[@AutoEdits]

Thanks! I love that thing.

[@officialWWM]

@@AutoEdits I would too, lol!

[@AZWESTSIDEWHEELERS]

Great video. Looks like an awesome hook. Curious to see how it does for you. Loved the trail to Sema footage great driving.

[@AutoEdits]

Thanks! I personally liked the looks of the Ultra Hook better cause it was just "fancy" and I'm good with that. It's just the grumpy "old timers" don't like the new fangled stuff and I'm open to learning all that I can.

[@Spunky-iq8jm]

Factor 55 with the shackle for my Jeep Gladiator Rubicon EcoDiesel.

[@AutoEdits]

Good choice!

[@himesjon]

your pin went in so much easier than mine. I had to hook it to a pole and drive the truck backward.

[@AutoEdits]

Yikes!

[@apsfst69]

Another great Jeep video!

[@GalaxyFA5]

Great video!! Keep up the good work!

[@AutoEdits]

Thanks! I'll keep Jeeping along here!

[@jennifercisneros2792]

Another sick video Jason. This isn't winch related but what are your thoughts on lockers. I have a 2013 2 door wrangler sport and am regearing it soon. What type of lockers or lsd's should I install along with the set of new gears. I use my jeep as a daily driver and do some light off roading on sand dunes mostly. Would appreciate your feedback. Keep up the great jeep videos!

[@AutoEdits]

You can never go wrong with ARB lockers but I don't know how some of the other brands perform since these are stock Rubicon lockers. I like electric style

[@jennifercisneros2792]

@@AutoEdits Great, thanks for the advice.

[@TheBearDenPhotography]

Any chance of doing a video with Fred Williams at some point in the future?

[@AutoEdits]

I'm not sure... those guys are on a whole other level than us normal folks. He mostly just likes to torment me with text messages now... LOL

[@davkenrem]

@@AutoEdits Dirt Every Day "jumped the Shark" long ago...

[@attilamorvai]

Is the biggest difference between rope and wire the weight? Or are there other benefits? Pros - Cons? Thank you for the greatness of this channel!! Your biggest fan from Sweden, as always!! : o)

[@AutoEdits]

Yes, the synthetic rope is lighter and easier to use when you're in a tough situation. It's plenty strong but you just have to be careful not to damage it and it is MUCH safer in the case of a line failure. That's why many hard core off road guys have switched to synthetic rope and make it work. I like it.

[@canonphoto]

Attila Morvai they won’t standup to sharp rocks and things like cable will but yes lighter and easier to handle, you also must consider maintenance of them. If you are someone that can’t be bothered with taking the time to wash and care for them when needed then stuck to cable. There are tons of vids with pros and cons of each, when I bought my Warn I simply spent more money on a better winch knowing I could upgrade to synthetic when the time came down the road.

[@KLRCoop]

two things... the bur on your fairlead will cut that new rope. Every wrap until about the last 15 feet of line should be applied to the drum as dresses as possible and under tension. I find dragging a riding lawnmower up a hill works well or get my son and pull his Honda CRV

[@lettersandlove]

Awesome video Jason!

[@AutoEdits]

Thanks!

[@cbrown17982010]

The intro got me a confused stare from everyone around me ;)

[@AutoEdits]

You're welcome! LOL

[@cbrown17982010]

@@AutoEdits Quick question ;), I've been asking a few Jk KZbinrs about their wrangler's 3.6L and how well its preforming/ does yours consume any oil?

[@AutoEdits]

Since I switched to Lucas Oil, I haven't notice it using any at all and the engine seems very happy.

[@shanepitts8507]

Jason not ragging on you at all just wanted to point out the main reason factor 55 does what they do is to use the shackle mount. They call it closed loop winching. Basically the hook part can't slip if it's not there. I have had 0 issues with a hook but know people who have

[@AutoEdits]

All good dude. Like I said in the video, I really like the Factor55 Ultra Hook and literally used it 50/50 as a hook and closed loop system over the last year or so. Plus I liked the way it stored on the fairlead but I'm going to try the Warn hook for a while since my buddy Fred keeps saying to go that way and then I'll make up my mind on what I like to see up there!

[@shanepitts8507]

I gotcha. Hey man to each their own I definitely see where Fred is coming from. Never had the opportunity to actually meet him but everything I've read or watched he definitely knows his stuff

[@pallendo]

I know I will get blasted for this, but I really like the abrasion shield on my Smittybilt X20 winch. It's velcro-able so I take it off when the rope is spooled all the way in so it doesn't get stuck behind the hawse.

[@AutoEdits]

Nothing wrong with that at all!

[@a.jr_moon]

What kind of brand bumper do you have here? Looks nice with the winch!

[@AutoEdits]

Metalcloak stubby

[@jackreece2414]

I love your videos! Good technical information, entertaining to watch! One question came to me watching you fight to get the old rope off and the new rope with chock installed - why didn't you pop the upper bracket assembly off for access? (looks like the bars across the top, along with the control panel, could be lifted for access by removing the bolts at each end of the support brackets?)

[@AutoEdits]

Hey thanks for watching! Since these winch plates are bolted in so securely... none of those things really come off that easy and this bumper being design to keep the winch low and protected just made that a little trick. The bar might have been a smart call but that would've made it too easy... LOL

[@jackreece2414]

@@AutoEdits cool! Thought it might be for "educational value", so we'll just go with that, right? LOL

[@MOTOWNN]

That Vette has my Attention!

[@AutoEdits]

Glad to hear that... should be a fun thing to share!

[@TheAGAPETUS]

As a new Jeep owner I enjoy the video's, I do have a question, what's going on with the brake pedal moving side to side when I hit bumps?

[@AutoEdits]

Howdy and welcome to Jeep life... I'm not sure about the brake pedal thing... is yours an automatic? My only problem with something like that was the shifter wobbling and I swapped it for an aftermarket.

[@joshua6200]

The lingo or the way you speak about items, I found impressive...

[@AutoEdits]

Cool! Thanks for watching.

[@00jagger]

Hey Jason, is there a reason you didn’t change out the winch plate? I read somewhere when buying my winch rope that a blemished winch fairlead can cut the rope. Looked like there was on on that drivers side but I could be mistaken what it is! Thanks! Reason I ask is that I’ve got a small abrasion and am considering replacing the winch fairlead but you probably know more than I do lol

[@AutoEdits]

Howdy, that abrasion you see on the fairlead is just some melted rope from when it broke. It rubs right off... good suggestion since you do want to keep that area smooth to protect the rope.

[@Crucial929]

closed system winching is a way better idea, i'd take the Factor55 over any of the hooks personally

[@AutoEdits]

I agree and for the most part using a shackle was fine but there was a couple of times when things were happening fast that the hook function was really nice.

[@OfWolfandManDL]

Great video. Too bad they didnt capture the moment you ran it over on the PowerStop video. I still need to check their video out.

[@AutoEdits]

Thanks! Yes, please watch the PowerStop videos... they are really entertaining.

[@kurt5457]

Thanks for sharing! Keep it up ✌️

[@AutoEdits]

Thank you!

[@301steady]

Because of you, my next battery will be an Optima Yellow Battery. As for winches, I got a Badland 12K over a year ago; but, have yet to take it out of the box. I finally ordered a receiver hitch plate for it. I've decided I'll be sticking to easier trails, no crawling, and am going to be able to move the winch from vehicle to vehicle. I've even ordered custom quick-disconnect cables for each vehicle receiver hitch position. My question is: Where is a good place to buy battery bus bars? On my ZJ, I figured out the threads on the unused secondary battery terminal; and, I'm going to bolt/connect my winch fuse to that; and, the black cable to the opposite side; but, because, my Suburban is buried deep in the garage, I haven't had a chance to look at that battery; although, it is the same battery as the ZJ, I remember that the Suburban uses what would be the secondary terminals, on the ZJ, as the primary terminals; so, being the same battery, I'm thinking, I'm going to need some sort of battery bus bars, to connect the winch cables and fuse to the Suburban's secondary terminals; because the primary points don't have a lot of room. I got a quick glimpse of your bus bars; but, don't have much information beyond that. Wondering if you'll elaborate on that? Also, getting ready for my big annual offroad adventure. I just got me some new Magellan Explorists TR5 & TR7 navigation devices. I remember you getting lost at Miller Jeep Trail. Don't want a repeat of that. My point is: No "big-names" have really reviewed them. One "upcoming" name did a poor job on the TRX7 and really spread disinformation about it. He really should take that video down. I like your video style. I'm not much of a speaker or editor; but, I did make two videos on them, that share way more information about them; than anybody else; and, that go a long ways to learn how to really use them. I thought you should watch the 2 videos and maybe make one good video that will do a better job explaining them, than me. I feel that Magellan Explorists are revolutionizing off-road navigation and are worthy of being properly shared; and, I think you're just the guy to do it; especially, because, you've shown the world that we're all capable of getting lost. I know I've been lost numerous times. You have a knack for being able to explain things very well. I can't think of anyone else who could better explain the Explorists.

[@AutoEdits]

Thanks so much for the thought on the Magellan thing! I don't think you want to run a bus bar for a winch... it's a heavy draw item and it's recommended to have it connect direct the the battery. I would recommend direct wire with a heavy gauge quick disconnect to go from vehicle to vehicle.

[@301steady]

@@AutoEdits I know exactly what you're saying and that's why I asked the question. Same struggle I'm having. The fuse is a 150 AMP. The cables I've ordered are 2 Gage. The ZJ should connect no problem. My Suburban doesn't come with a way to connect the 2 Gage Cables to the top of the battery; so, it's looking like I might have to custom fab some thing up, like, BleepinJeep did. Maybe Flatten out some pieces of copper pipe? Drill some holes thru the flattened pipe for some bolts? Figure out a way to secure the cables to the top of the battery; of course, with a fuse. I've already ordered another fuse for my Suburban.

[@kylevanwinkle2081]

I'd highly suggest a northstar battery over any optima. Optima is not what it was the first few years they were produced. They moved production to mexico and the quality went down. The car audio community realized this almost immediately. They have since move to deka for inexpensive batts and northstar and xspower for premium batts. And currently lithium but that's unnecessary here. What is more important here is the fact that the alt only puts 50amps or so out at idle and you have what a 60ah battery? So 110ah available and the winch can draw 250-300amps fairly easy. So it's important to make sure you arent boiling your batteries or killing your winch with heat.

[@301steady]

@@kylevanwinkle2081 I appreciate your concern. I really do. Lucky for me, I generally don't aftermarket my stereo. I'm perfectly fine listening to my engine and my navigation device making sure I don't get lost. For non-offroading, I'm sure a Northstar is superior to Optima; but, for off-roading, I don't think so. Just the basic design of the Optima is not going to have lead plates breaking and shorting. Were you around for the "Gel-Filled" Battery days? Trying to keep batteries from shock damage, of off-roading. The Optima does that, without gel. If you want to convince me, take apart an Northstar Battery and show me how they're technology is going to keep me from killing my battery offroad. Ever kill a battery in the desert, 40 miles from the nearest air-conditioned anything? I have. Luckily it was under warranty; but, that was an 80 mile round trip with about 40 miles of bonus off-roading, thankfully, with a buddy. That Barstow battery is still in my Suburban today; but, it will eventually die. Check out the insides of an Optima. I'll bet a Northstar doesn't look like that. Optima patented the design. Autoedits was the one that made me take a look at Optima. What I saw inside is what sold me. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aYCsn3uwobaghdE

[@kylevanwinkle2081]

@@301steady lol I assure you an agm battery is not a gel battery. In fact it's the same thing as the Optima except the optima is a spiral design compared to the flat plates of the northstar. I can assure you northstar is a much better battery. The car audio relation, was in relation to the high amperage draw accessories like winches can draw. I've killed quite a few Optimas in daily use both red tops and yellowtops. I'd rather any of the premium agm batts available from autozone, napa, O'Reilly, Sears, and so on.

[@finnthehuman5260]

Hey Jayson, what are your thoughts on a possible dash upgrade? Maybe some cool looking gauges or modern interment clusters and what not?

[@AutoEdits]

Never even thought of that... I'll do some checking!

[@LightningGB93]

Hey save the rope and make a winch extension line by putting a new eyelet in it . Thanks for the vid.

[@AutoEdits]

Great suggestion!

[@jasonpalmer5437]

Thank you. I was wondering how to do this. Also, the imperfection on the fairlead is just cosmetic so it wont abrade the rope? Btw, Pinto is awesome, look forward to seeing her in the videos :-)

[@AutoEdits]

That bit of debris is just melted rope and will come off with a bit of effort. Scratches for Pinto the Dog! Thanks so much for watching.

[@itsbobbyagain]

Good stuff, thanks for sharing. Is it better to store the rope completely under tension? I've been spooling it in until the hook touches the fairlead, then I zip tie the hook (like the Factor55), flat to the fairlead.

[@AutoEdits]

I have had good success with the hand held tension on the last few feet and then put a bit of tension on it for storage. The Factor55 stored right against the fairlead and I just hooked the Warn Epic to the shackle and tightened it up.

[@strawberrybeans5035]

i totally agree , what if you dont have one out there , I had a winch hook that needed a center punch and hammer to take the pin out and I didnt like it cause the same thing I want simple

[@brandonrichter6910]

I guess the factory hook that came with my harbor freight winch is good enough for me.... cant justify the cost. Hell that red one is basically what I gave for my whole winch

[@AutoEdits]

The Warn Epic Hook is only $60 and is way better than the stock hook... much more practical. I forgot to mention it has a built in bottle opener.

[@sappersapper4077]

Nice video brother, what kind of tires are you running now? Also did you use those on the sema event?

[@AutoEdits]

Thanks! Those are the Maxxis Razr MT 37x12.5 R17 and I like them a lot... just ordered another set. Yes, most of us on the Trail to Sema ran them with much success.

[@sappersapper4077]

AutoEdits ok thanks, yeah I am either getting those or the STT Pro. I have some snow/ice where I am right now currently. Thank you

[@TheBeardedJeeper]

I've been contemplating getting the warn hook. It's something I can afford compared to the factor 55

[@AutoEdits]

It's a really good hook and for $60 you can't go wrong. Plus it's practical.

[@TheBeardedJeeper]

AutoEdits exactly I have the same winch too. I love it

[@Hydecreeklogging]

you missed the key point of the Warn Hook. it has a built in bottle opener lol. I thought for sure that's where you were going with the benefits of the warn hook:) I use both set ups on different rigs. I mainly use soft shackles with the factor 55 and mine doesn't have the hook on it.

[@jacobmedlin4393]

Hey dude love your videos

[@AutoEdits]

Hey Thanks!

[@Fixitall-ACE]

Don’t forget about the beverage opener

[@AutoEdits]

Ha! Oh yeah... there's that feature! Hey, liked the fire works video... do you ever worry about getting the drone hit by a one? Would be kinda cool looking... but expensive...LOL

[@Fixitall-ACE]

I’ve flown through them a few times back when I first started and gotten hit a few times but never been takin out. I don’t recommend it and now fly with different lenses to make it look closer. Hope your droning is going well.

[@hangemhigh64lv]

Question about the synthetic rope and the winch. I purchased my warn winch with the wire rope (steel cable) I swapped out the cable for synthetic. Is the only difference between the 2 winches the attachment point on the drum? Note I also put a heat shield on the synthetic rope to prevent it from heat damage where the rope covers the first complete wind of the drum.

[@AutoEdits]

That and the fairlead. You don't want to use rollers with synthetic rope but a Hawse fairled like in this video.

[@hangemhigh64lv]

Yes Jason I forgot to mention the fairlead. thanks for the feedback👍🏼

[@Strikerage]

There's that Jeep I love. 👍

[@AutoEdits]

I even have a couple more fun things to do on it!

[@Strikerage]

Awesome! I'll be waiting to watch! I gotta vacation coming up... gonna be doing some fixing/replacements myself. Tires, tire rack, and rock sliders, frame painting.... Dang Rubicon Trail... such a beast. It really did a number on my baby. Ha! Keep up the great videos!

[@Jab-lj3wc]

What are you working on next?

[@AutoEdits]

Battery swap or Cold Air Intake... You pick it and let me know!

[@Jab-lj3wc]

AutoEdits cold air

[@BADD400]

Yeah Pinto. Very video. I like the vette too

[@AutoEdits]

Thanks!

[@johnkaldeway]

Love your videos Jason. A couple of suggestions: when you wind up a synthetic line, it's actually better to make a bit of a mess of the spooling so the line doesn't get jammed between two wraps of rope. Also, there's a school of thought on closed loop winching. Rather than using a hook, just use a D-ring on the loop at the end of your line, which is practically impossible to accidentally open up and fall off while winching (or driving over it). The little piece of sheet metal and spring closing your hook is always the first thing to go.

[@AutoEdits]

Thanks for the suggestion! Yeah, I fully appreciate the close loop system of the Factor55... my buddy used to always say "what if" you didn't have that shackle always available (I always did) But I'm into taking advice from guys that have been doing this way longer than me and will try this out this year. I'm glad the Ultra Hook broke when it did and how it did... would have caused a bunch more damage to my Jeep if it didn't... the thing is awesome.

[@johnkaldeway]

​@@AutoEdits give pinto a belly rub for me!

[@davidkennedy3050]

IMHO Factor 55 is a way better hook. But I don't like hooks either, I prefer their Flatlink and a soft shackle. I also recently added a Yankum dynamic rope to my recover gear.

[@AutoEdits]

I really like the Factor 55 stuff... just about all of it.

[@iGaximus]

Is that a 63 Vette in the background?

[@AutoEdits]

Yep... check my recent video about it!

[@joelhebert2246]

So after running the epic hook and the ultra hook, which one you recommend?

[@AutoEdits]

I like the ability to loop both ends of a tree saver strap in the Warn hook without a D ring BUT I really like the looks and everything else about the Ultra better... so there you go...LOL

[@whatittooye]

Ok this may seem like stupid question but ive never owned or used a winch. If you were too put a winch on a rig shouldnt you get a higher amp alternator (more then stock) too help supply the winch the amps or would just a deep cycle battery be sufficient?

[@gilbertarnold8666]

Great video, thank you!

[@AutoEdits]

Hey, thank you!

[@betosoto22]

Would the hook be able to sit flat against the fairlead similar to the f55?

[@AutoEdits]

Yes it does!

[@betosoto22]

@@AutoEdits ok thanks for the response! I´ve been wanting to get one but really wanted it to sit flat and snug on the fairlead.

[@estbeta]

I don’t have a winch, I love the look of Factor 55 products but they are just too expensive. I’m sure the warn hook is also good and with some thought, open system winching is not a deadly activity

[@NextGreatLegend]

How has the Warn epic hook been?

[@AutoEdits]

Really good.

[@gsbudriss]

Where is day 2 pt2 of the power stop videos?

[@AutoEdits]

It's in the playlist on the Powerstop you tube channel.

[@vincentorona163]

Why a flat cell battery?

[@abefrohman1759]

Happy New Year

[@g-wolfoutdoors8150]

Did you keep the broken winch line? Can it be re-spliced and used as an extension?

[@JS-tb9hu]

Agreed

[@AutoEdits]

You can splice it in... Factor55 makes an awesome tool to do just that but the drum will only fit so much rope before it rubs on the winch plate so 100 feet is good for me right now... Good question though!

[@kentchesley9348]

Jason, keep your old winch rope. Being it's not wire, it is easy to store on board. Install hooks at both ends. Trust me, there will be times when the 100ft rope on the winch will come up short.

[@canonphoto]

Kent Chesley that’s exactly why I haul around 3 extra 30ft heavy duty straps plus tree savers etc.

[@jaymanxxxx]

been there! my longest line pull was 165' with two 20' and one 30' strap. I was in a meadow with one telephone pole sized tree stump. I have since welded up a land anchor.

[@markrine]

So are you still using this epic hook?

[@AutoEdits]

I moved it over to my Tahoe and am using some warn link thing… not sure about it yet. I miss the factor55 hook mostly because it looked awesome.

[@tonkmonster]

Looks like that Warn hook has a bottle opener built in! Or am I seeing things again?

[@AutoEdits]

You would be correct!

[@jake-mv5oi]

The tiny opening on the ultrahook kind of defeats the purpose of having a hook in the first place: to do away with the need for a shackle. If it was any bigger, it probably wouldn't be strong enough, being aluminum. The warn looks like it works well with a tree saver strap.

[@quewyn]

lol I thought you were going to say that Fred thinks the warn hook is better because it has a bottle opener lol

[@AutoEdits]

I don't think that's a major sales point for him but it certainly is for me!

[@roamingtiger]

My warn 12s has the same stupid plastic piece on the left side of the winch that’s super faded too it bothers me because that and my hood matches are the only thing that’s faded lol.

[@AutoEdits]

LOL!

[@swarbrickjesse]

why did you get rid of the factor 55 fair lead? EDIT: Should've waited for the end... lol

[@AutoEdits]

LOL. All good... I still love the Factor55 hook... looks way cooler and the way it sits right against the fair lead was a brilliant design. I'm just going to listen to my buddies advice and try a few trips with the standard hook.

[@jose-qn8zv]

Do you have a video talking about lockers, im new to this and i thought lockers were turning the tcs on

[@AutoEdits]

Watch the video of Trail Rocker install... I talk about the lockers a bit.

[@jose-qn8zv]

AutoEdits gracias!

[@kylevanwinkle2081]

The factor 55 is prolly the best winch hook available. But I personally would never use the hook part. I would run a Crosby shackle in it at all times reason being is that safety latches and hooks in general are very weak when side loaded. A Crosby shackle retains 50% of its rating when sideloaded. Even on conventional hooks I still use shackles unless the hook is significantly larger than the sling that is in the hook. Crane hooks are a good example. More than 2 slings or eyes of the slings in 1 hook should have a collector shackle

[@AutoEdits]

I'm actually glad it broke how it did... would've caused way more damage to other things that I don't want to repair on the trail. I was and am still extremely happy with the Factor55 but just want to try something that was recommended by a seasoned veteran.

[@hickoryridgefarms]

Review the split window! 🤤

[@AutoEdits]

On the to do list!!!

[@timritchieblue]

Gloves?

[@naterobers4514]

Another posative of the epic hook it looks like it has a bottle opener on it.

[@AutoEdits]

Truth!

[@carlosteodoro6110]

Pinto !!!!! Love her , she is more into helping now ,😄

[@soundestmonk]

So I'm new to the Jeep scene...like very new and have been watching your videos to try and understand how everything works in the Jeep world. Your videos have been a great help with a lot of things but I was wonder if there are any videos out there that explain the more intricate things? Like what stuff is necessary to mod if you just plan on going mud driving in Florida compared to what you would need to mod if you were crawling in Arizona. Plus also maybe just the basics in general that is very useful to know. Would be appreciated and I doubt I'm the only new person wondering things like these.

[@guitar14]

You missed the most important feature of the Warn hook... integrated bottle opener... hopefully you’ve had a few cold ones. 🍻

[@AutoEdits]

Good call! and yes... a few!

[@naterobers4514]

Is that a split window vette?

[@AutoEdits]

65 standard coupe

[@tomthorn2887]

Nice video. PLEASE, to anyone watching this video who is about to get a 4x4 and winch or just put your first winch on PLEASE don't just go out and use it!! A winch is a great tool but it is also VERY dangerous if you don't use it properly!! There are winch videos on here from "Ronny Dahl" on how to use a winch safely! My girlfriend is an emergency room physician and our part of our state there are a lot of people getting into off-roading. They see A LOT of people in the emergency room from people getting hurt by a winch! It's just because they didn't really know what they were doing! PLEASE watch in depth instruction videos on it!! Ronny Dahl has videos on here to teach you. My girlfriend has seen a LOT of winch injuries! If it breaks and hits your legs you have a good chance of amputation because it's NEVER a nice clean wound. It is NASTY, smashed, torn up wounds where a lot of people bleed to death! She has more than one story of a winch breaking and hitting someone in the head. Folks, none of those people even ad a chance of living. It killed a young boy instantly!! Winches are great. I love them. They are a lot of fun AS LONG AS you have been trained on them! Watch videos AND get someone who is very good with them to use the winch with you several times to get really well trained and safe. PLEASE respect the winch guys. They can and DO hurt badly and or kill people every year due to lack of understanding!

[@benderisgreat1469]

I thinl factory 55 mite want to see that

[@AutoEdits]

Do you think so? I'd be happy to send it to them but am more embarrassed at my mistake in ruining such a cool component.

[@harrisonstanish2923]

Anyone have recommendations on installing this same winch lines on a vr10? it doesnt have the loop hole on the drum

[@ReimerKeith]

You could use a Grabber from Bubba Rope. It locks the first five wraps in place.

[@greergolwen6832]

with synthetic ropes you actually don't want it spooled all nice and neat. you want it spooled ugly and messy because when you use the winch and put lots of tension on the rope and spool the rope can slip in between the other wraps on the spool.

[@AutoEdits]

That is good advice. Other than that first wrap on the drum of course!

[@rob_quadratec]

Who's sweet Stingray is that at 17:14?

[@AutoEdits]

Howdy dude! That's ours... trying to figure out what to do with it. Just drive it for now.

[@rob_quadratec]

@@AutoEdits Jealous! It looks sweet!