OPENROAD 13500 lb Recovery Winch: Tested and Reviewed

When it comes to off-road adventures or heavy-duty towing, a reliable winch is an essential tool for any truck, SUV, or trailer owner. The OPENROAD 13500 lb Recovery Winch is designed to meet the needs of both amateur and professional off-road enthusiasts. In this review, we will take you through all its key features, performance, pros and cons, and more, so you can make an informed decision about whether it’s the right winch for your needs.

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OPENROAD 13500 lb Recovery Winch Key Features and Specifications

The OPENROAD Panther Series 3S Winch comes with an array of specifications that make it suitable for various vehicles, including Jeeps, trucks, and trailers. Below is a table that summarizes the main features of this recovery winch:

Feature	Specification
Winch Model	OPENROAD Panther Series 3S
Load Capacity	13,500 lbs (6,123 kg)
Rope Type	Synthetic Rope
Rope Dimensions	3/8″ x 85 ft (9.5 mm x 25.9 m)
Waterproof Rating	IP68 (Fully waterproof and dustproof)
Voltage	12V DC
Control Type	2 Wireless Remotes, 1 Wired Controller
Dimensions (L x W x H)	20.8″ x 6.3″ x 9.5″
Materials	Corrosion-resistant Dacromet-coated screws and heavy-duty hook
Mounting Requirements	Bolt Hole Dimensions: 10″ x 4.5″
Included in Package	Winch, Control Box, Fairlead, Wireless and Wired Controllers, Strap, Bolts, Manual
Warranty	1-year limited warranty, Lifetime technical support
Weight	Approx. 65 lbs (29.5 kg)

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OPENROAD 13500 lb Recovery Winch Performance

The OPENROAD 13500 lb Recovery Winch is built to handle heavy-duty recovery tasks, with its impressive 13,500 lb pulling capacity making it perfect for off-road vehicles like jeeps, SUVs, and trucks. Below, we will examine the winch’s key performance aspects:

Pulling Power

With a 13,500 lb pulling capacity, the OPENROAD Panther Series 3S winch is more than capable of handling large vehicles such as trucks, SUVs, and trailers. This makes it suitable for both everyday recovery and extreme off-road situations. Whether you’re recovering a stuck jeep or hauling a heavy trailer, this winch has the strength to get the job done.

The synthetic rope plays a crucial role in the winch’s performance, offering a superior balance of strength, weight, and durability. Unlike steel cables, synthetic ropes are lighter and easier to handle, reducing the risk of injury during recovery operations. The 3/8″ x 85 ft synthetic rope offers enough length to handle most typical off-road recovery scenarios.

Waterproof and Weather-Resistant

One of the standout features of the OPENROAD 13500 lb winch is its IP68 waterproof rating. This means that the winch is fully protected from dust and can be submerged in water up to a depth of 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) for prolonged periods. This feature is essential for off-road use in muddy, wet, or snowy conditions, ensuring that your winch remains functional and reliable even in harsh environments.

Control Options

The winch comes with two wireless remotes in addition to a wired controller. The wireless remotes offer great convenience, especially in off-road conditions where you may need to operate the winch from a distance. The controls are intuitive, making the winch easy to operate even for beginners.

While the wireless remotes are a valuable feature, the inclusion of a wired controller ensures you have a backup option in case of battery failure or signal interference with the wireless system. Having both options gives users peace of mind, knowing that they have control over the winch in a variety of situations.

Ease of Installation

Installing the OPENROAD 13500 lb recovery winch is straightforward. The winch is designed to fit on the front bumper or winch bracket of most vehicles, with factory assembly already mostly complete. You only need to connect the power supply and secure the bolts to get started. The mounting dimensions of 10″ x 4.5″ ensure compatibility with many vehicle setups, but users should verify their vehicle’s specifications before installation.

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OPENROAD 13500 lb Recovery Winch Pros and Cons

To help you better understand the strengths and weaknesses of the OPENROAD Panther Series 3S winch, here is a table outlining its pros and cons:

Pros	Cons
High Load Capacity: Capable of handling up to 13,500 lbs, perfect for large trucks and off-road vehicles.	Weight: At approximately 65 lbs, the winch is heavy, which might be a concern for some users.
Waterproof Design: IP68 rating ensures it performs well in wet and muddy conditions.	Installation Space: Some users may need extra space for installation, especially on vehicles with limited mounting options.
Dual Control Options: Includes both wireless and wired controllers for maximum convenience.
Rugged Build Quality: Durable construction with corrosion-resistant parts ensures longevity.
Easy to Install: Pre-assembled and comes with all the necessary accessories, making setup a breeze.

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FAQ About the OPENROAD 13500 lb Recovery Winch

1. What is the maximum weight the OPENROAD winch can pull?

The OPENROAD 13500 lb Recovery Winch has a pulling capacity of 13,500 lbs. This makes it suitable for heavy-duty applications such as pulling large trucks, SUVs, or trailers.

2. Is the synthetic rope easy to handle?

Yes, the 3/8″ x 85 ft synthetic rope is lighter than steel cables, making it easier to handle and work with. It also reduces the risk of injury during recovery.

3. Can I use the winch in wet conditions?

Absolutely. The winch is rated IP68, meaning it is fully waterproof and dustproof. You can use it in wet, muddy, or snowy conditions without concern for water damage.

4. How easy is it to install the winch?

Installation is relatively simple. The winch comes mostly pre-assembled, and all you need to do is connect the power supply and secure the bolts. Ensure your vehicle’s mounting dimensions match the winch’s requirements (10″ x 4.5″).

5. Does it come with any warranty?

Yes, the winch comes with a 1-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support, offering peace of mind and assistance should you encounter any issues.

6. What vehicles can the OPENROAD winch be used on?

The OPENROAD Panther Series 3S winch is compatible with a wide range of vehicles, including jeeps, SUVs, trucks, and trailers. It is designed to handle large vehicles with a 13,500 lb pulling capacity.

7. Is the winch easy to control?

Yes, the winch comes with two wireless remotes and a wired controller, giving you versatile control options to operate the winch from a distance or up close.

Conclusion

The OPENROAD 13500 lb Recovery Winch with Synthetic Rope and 2 Wireless Remotes offers exceptional value for money, combining powerful performance, ease of use, and durability. Its robust pulling capacity, waterproof design, and dual control options make it an excellent choice for off-road enthusiasts and anyone in need of reliable recovery equipment for their vehicle.

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