Tappa
Member
After purchasing the GX and making the modifications in the first three segments already posted, I began to hit some things on the list that would require some cash outlay. A winch and a Roof-top tent, both would have to be purchased and neither was going to be cheap. While I was saving up for these two things, I was able to improve the interior and courtesy lighting by finding a LED lighting kit containing all the interior lamps and the ones under the vehicle along the running boards. I purchased the kit and installed all the new lamps which made a huge difference in the quality of the light inside. A second lighting improvement came along shortly after this by replacing the backup light bulbs with LED as well. This really helped with night time backing.
The winch came next after researching and looking at several alternatives like the Harbor Freight and Tractor Supply. While both got good reviews I opted for an Ironman 12,000 lb unit with synthetic cable and wireless remote. I couldn't afford a winch bumper and really didn't think I needed one so I looked around and found a mounting plate designed for a concealed mount behind the original bumper cover. I waited for the winch to go on sale and after looking around for a while I located a winch mount that someone had put on FB Marketplace and arranged to purchase it.
The installation wasn't too complicated but it took some time and effort and I was able to complete it by myself in my carport. I had to pull off the bumper cover and in the process several of the plastic snap together tabs broke off. If you decide to do this yourself make sure you are very careful with this part of the process. I managed to patch mine back together but it looks patched. I wasn't too worried as this was meant to be an off-road vehicle and looks weren't as important to me as function.
I finished up the installation and wound the cable on by attaching it to a tree and pulling myself up a small incline.
The RTT was next and I'll cover that in the next post.
The winch came next after researching and looking at several alternatives like the Harbor Freight and Tractor Supply. While both got good reviews I opted for an Ironman 12,000 lb unit with synthetic cable and wireless remote. I couldn't afford a winch bumper and really didn't think I needed one so I looked around and found a mounting plate designed for a concealed mount behind the original bumper cover. I waited for the winch to go on sale and after looking around for a while I located a winch mount that someone had put on FB Marketplace and arranged to purchase it.
The installation wasn't too complicated but it took some time and effort and I was able to complete it by myself in my carport. I had to pull off the bumper cover and in the process several of the plastic snap together tabs broke off. If you decide to do this yourself make sure you are very careful with this part of the process. I managed to patch mine back together but it looks patched. I wasn't too worried as this was meant to be an off-road vehicle and looks weren't as important to me as function.
I finished up the installation and wound the cable on by attaching it to a tree and pulling myself up a small incline.
The RTT was next and I'll cover that in the next post.
