Badlands Apex 12K Winch Install Lessons Learned

CJMore

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Here's a quick summary of recent lessons learned on my Badlands Apex 12K Winch install on a 2023.

First there's no way to get a bigger gauge wire for the positive lead than the provided 2awg. Previously I've used 2/0 for lead and neg and the control box copper is too tight even with cutting a pulling the wire out the side. I drilled the side to re-route the Pos cable and patched the rear cutout.
Second the Warn winch mount is perfect. No alterations needed. It came with license plate mounting plate. I did use longer M12-1.50x60 allen bolt socket cap bolts from Ace to mount fairlead, license plate mount to Warn mount. You do not need the order the additional Mopar 82215528AB front plate if you are installing on the stock bumper - The Warn Kit includes it with the License plate mount.
Third I made a spacer from 5/8 bar steel and I didn't need to alter the engagement handle. Bolts M10-1.50 x 35 fit perfectly for underside mounting.
*Correction* Does not Fit - Forth I used the Blue Sea 3000 HD cut-off switch rather than the provided Badlands switch.
Fifth I pulled a couple of the fender liner bolts to help with cable routing in front of the body mount and straight up behind the lights to help keep the cable routing clean.
Lastly, American Adventure Labs Cut off switch mount and EPIC Adventure Outfitters Wizard Battery Terminal Expansion Kit should make this a really clean install, but those parts are still in shipping.

Bottom line, pretty straight forward install.
 
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I ended up buying the Maximus 3 winch mount for my 22’. I’ve yet to install it, since I also ordered the updated 24’ grill from Distinction Applied. Once that gets here I’ll be mounting my Apex winch as well. I’m hoping to avoid dealing with modifying the control box.
 
Here's a couple install pics with the American Adventure Labs Cut off switch mount and EPIC Adventure Outfitters Wizard Battery Terminal Expansion Kit
 

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