i got stuck today and my hand crank winch finally gave out it was a cheap harbor freight one. i found another hand winch wyeth-scott cast winch does anyone use that? or you think a hi-lift jack be better?  i cant afford a elec winch right now

The high lift will require chains and shackles to set up the rigging - if you have these already then I'd go this route for the simple reason that the high lift will have multiple purposes while wheeling.  It's not the greatest tool to use as a winch but will get the job done if necessary.  If you plan to hand winch a ton then it might not be the best solution.

Also, keep your eyes open for deals on used stuff.  I just got a used ARB bumper, Warn winch, and hella lights for my rover - all in great condition for $500.  Maybe you can find something for your zuk.

wow that is a deal man. ill keep looking

If your going to wheel without a winch I would pick up a good heavy duty come-a-long and a high lift to throw in your vehicle.  A great way to get off of stumps is to jack the vehicle up in the air with the high lift, then either drive off of it or give the truck a good shove so it falls off in the proper direction. 

that's why i was thinking on buying the cast one from Wyeth-Scott it seems heavy duty. i usually have a friend to pull me out but this time his big lifted old f250 couldn't make it  he got stuck in three times and had 6 more mud holes to run through before he got to me and 2 of them bring water almost to my windows