7 Ways to Prevent Winch Theft

Winch theft is a major concern for many winchwhile it's not the best option, it is an option. Most
owners, especially if you park your rig in the yardwinch manufacturers advise against welding the
or leave it in the Wal-Mart parking lot for a fewbolts because it could compromise the strength of
hours. You've invested a good chunk of change inthe bolts.
your winch. Now how can you make sure it won't5. Secure the winch with a cable and lock. While
get ripped off?it's not the most secure option by far, it may be
Here are 7 ways to prevent winch theft.enough to discourage the casual thief looking for
an easy target. At the very least, it slows down
1. Buy a winch lock or a security bolt lock. Theythe thief and gives you a better chance of
prevent access to the bolt and can only becatching them in the act.
removed with a special key. Just make sure you6. Use a winch cover. Sometimes the best way
don't lose the key, in case you ever need to taketo keep your stuff from getting ripped off is to
your winch off!keep it out of sight. Out of sight, out of mind.
2. Weld a section of C-Channel over the bolt7. Take the winch off and put it back on only
heads to prevent access to the bolts.when you go offroading. Sound like too much
3. Weld a cap over one or several of the bolts. Ifwork? That's what I thought. But it's an option. If
you ever need to remove your winch to repair oryou mount your winch with a receiver hitch
replace it, you'll need to grind off the cap.instead of a permanent winch mount, this option
4. Weld the bolts and nuts together. Some havesounds a little more realistic.
done this and it's worked just fine; others claimIf you have another way to protect your winch
that the extreme heat can weaken the bolts. Sofrom theft, let me know in the comments!