Warn XT30 Winch Review

Nothing turns a fun ride into a headache more than getting your ATV/RTV stuck out on the trail. The time spent figuring out how to get yourself unstuck can be aggravating. Warn winches help you get back on the trail fast without wasting valuable riding time. The Warn XT30 extreme terrain winch has some new features and improvements that make it the ideal addition to your off road or utility vehicle.

Why We Like It:

The XT30 is their new 3,000 pound top of the line model. Warn has improved much over its earlier models with the XT30 most notably with the new disc brake technology that prevents your machine from rolling back on steep inclines. The brake will securely hold the rated load of the winch. The brake eliminates drag and is very quiet and smooth in operation. The new three stage planetary gear train draws less power so it doesn't over burden your vehicles battery. The XT30 also uses a synthetic rope that is lightweight and a lot easier to handle and manipulate while retaining incredible strength.

The Warn XT 30 also features a wireless remote that includes a holder that can be mounted to the bars. This eliminates the need to climb back and trigger the quad mounted vehicle mounted switch, which can be precarious at times. There are many utility uses for a winch outside of getting yourself unstuck that make the winch a very practical accessory that is easy to justify. Aside from pulling your self off the trail, up a hill, out of the rocks or out of the mud, the winch is great for pulling fallen trees that are blocking the trail or when you need to a clear area for cutting or work.

Things to Consider:

The synthetic rope is really a positive feature because of the ease of use and comparative strength, however if you are constantly running up and down jagged sharp rocks you may want to consider one of Warns wire rope models as they are less prone to fraying and damage caused by excessive abrasion.

The Rundown:

The unit features a 12 volt DC, 9 hp permanent magnet motor, that is fully sealed to protect against the elements. The all metal 3 stage planetary geartrain provides smooth, reliable operation with a 154:1 gear ratio and sliding pin and ring gear clutch. The new motor and system has a reduced amp draw for longer pulls and less battery drain. It has a 3,000 lbs line capacity and can pull the biggest ATVs and RTVs. The super convenient wireless control system offers increased versatility when winching, plus a sealed handlebar mounted mini rocker control switch. 50' of lightweight, easy to handle 3/16" diameter synthetic rope. The new patent pending disc brake prevents rollback. Limited lifetime warranty.

The finish line:

The Warn XT30 is a heavy duty utility tool that is well worth the expenditure. Built to provide service for years, the XT30 is invaluable on the trail, around the ranch or on the farm. The new improvements and features are so well designed and thought out that you would think the new unit would cost a lot more. In fact it has come down in suggested price over previous models making it a very sensible accessory addition to any ATV or UTV, whether you use them to trail ride or for work.