Non Toyota Winch Cradle

[Burger Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Burger]

Hi All, just looking at installing a winch & doing some research. I know most have uses the Toyota winch mount, but I came across this "universal" one on e-bay. Would anyone be able to comment on how simple it may be to install? I have the sovereign bar. Just looking for anyones thoughts, I have never seen a winch cradle so I have no idea what to really expect!

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Winch-Cra...ht_2259wt_1141

[Bazza Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close Bazza]

G'day,
I have my winch mounted on my 120 using the Toyota cradle and alloy bullbar, which is a perfect fit, using the updated Toyota cradle mounting brackets. I also concidered using a non-genuine cradle, but in comparision, the Toyota cradle is much better built and a stronger unit, with strenthening gussets in the right spots.
I would suggest that you try and get hold of a Toyota cradle. It was also possible to install the winch with the cradle and bullbar fitted to the vehicle.
Bazza

[LeighW Avid PP Poster! Find all posts View Profile Close LeighW]

First problem is on the prado the winch is mounted to the rear
of the mounting plate and the cable exists out through a slot in the
mounting plate.

Cheers
LeighW

[Bazza Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close Bazza]

After looking at the winch cradle in your Ebay link, I totally agree with LeighW. That cradle is designed to be mounted horizontally, either above or below the chassis rails, or in front of them. It's designed for a much earlier vehicle, probably without air bags and modern crumple zones. Good call LeighW.
Bazza

[Burger Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Burger]

Thanks Bazza and LeighW. I have not yet had the sovereign recall done as yet, but it is booked in at Clintons first week of the new year. Will get them to install the Toyota cradle if available. I was originally concerned it may be a tad weak, but your advice confirms even if not weak, it is not an option to consider. Thanks Heaps! Burger.