I just purchased a T-Max 9000 lb winch (made in Australia) for $630 Cdn. Bought a winch cradle for $150 Cdn. (ouch) and had Gord at Max Performance (Lacombe, Alberta - one hour south of Edmonton) manufacture a 2 inch hitch receiver for less than $200 Cdn. so I can remove or install my winch in about 30 seconds. Have not used it off-road yet, but will do so this weekend. From what I have seen and read, you do not need a winch bumper unless you want the extra protection. They are heavy, and expensive. Also recommended is a second battery hooked up in parallel or what I did - if you have the money - is purchased an Optima sealed battery that puts out over 1000 cranking amps and should provide all the power you need for winching. It doesn't leak and works upside down or sideways! Wal-mart sells them for under $200 Cdn (again, ouch!!)... My next mod is to have a 2 inch receiver hitch custom made for the rear, so I can pull myself out coming or going!