Winch Preparation Option (2026 US Price List)

[DawgDoctor]

The MY 2026 U.S. Pricelist includes an option for Winch Preparation (EAC) $395.

From revieing the forum, it's my understanding that this is wiring to the front of the vehicle for owners who didn't order the Integrated Heavy Duty Winch from the factory.

Does the Winch Preparation option also include heavier (stronger) front springs? From what I have read, heavier springs are fitted when the Integrated Heavy Duty Winch is installed at the factory.

 

[Zimm]

I'd ask a dealer.

 

[Krabby]

That must be something new for 26; I’m curious too.

 

[DawgDoctor]

I asked the folks at Red Noland. They acknowledged that the spring rate can be variable depending on the build. But they weren't sure if heavier springs come with the Winch Prep option and didn't want to give out incorrect information. I wasn't able to find an answer by searching the forum. I don't have permission to post in the Ineos Automotive AMA (ask me anything) Forum.

 

[DawgDoctor]

That must be something new for 26; I’m curious too.

I remember seeing it on build sheets in the windows of some of the Grenadiers sitting on the lot at Red Noland Thanksgiving weekend in 2024. Some of the earlier build sheets didn't include a lot of details, but some had Winch Prep in addition to the High Load Auxiliary Switch Panel (we were trying to figure out which option supplied the NATO plug in the rear). I was on the build configurator last week and noticed that if I added the High Load Panel, the configurator tried to delete the Winch Prep option (or maybe it was the other way around).

 

[Boise]

They are splitting the High Load Aux Switch option and the Winch Prep option. In 24-25 the Winch Prep option was included in the High Load Aux Switch package. In 2026 they will be separated into two different options and not mutually exclusive.