1997 Jeep TJ Brute Mile Marker Winch - Project Teal Brute

In today's winching arena, consumers have lots of options to consider. Never before have there been so many different winch manufacturers competing for the same buyer. As a result, creative marketing tactics and winching innovations are at an all-time high. This condition creates a scenario where consumers are left with more choices than ever: Should you pick a winch with a trustworthy name, or simply grab the cheapest unit with the appropriate weight capacity? That's where a little investigation goes a long way.

We regularly test new winches as they come to market, and with our latest evaluation of Mile Marker's V-Series 12,000-pound-rated entry, we were impressed. Not only is the V-12 we tested Mile Marker's fastest winch to date, it packs a serious punch in the waterproofing department. It also happens to be the first Mile Marker winch with solid state MiFi electronics (MOFSET) instead of traditional solenoids. Check it out.

Other Cool Features
* When you reach a low voltage condition, the V-12 will automatically shut down to prevent damage to the control circuitry. Similarly, a flashing LED will warn the operator when the V-12 reaches its maximum operating temperature.

* The V-12 features IP67 construction-it's waterproof to one meter and completely dustproof.

* The winch comes equipped with 100 feet of galvanized 3/8-inch aircraft cable.

* The whole unit features a heavy-duty dual-compound polyurethane finish for outstanding good looks and corrosion resistance.

The first thing you'll notice about the V-12 is the finned aluminum control box mounted above the winch drum. This sealed box contains MiFi technology, a term Mile Marker uses to describe its proprietary circuitry design. It means there are no moving parts inside the winch control box. Instead of a traditional solenoid-type switch, the MiFi unit employs a digital signal processor that controls the high-amp power leads, making this winch control unit the first of its kind. A cast-aluminum heat sink cradles the 6.5hp series-wound 12V motor. You will also notice four separate color 2-gauge power leads with durable FRP sheathing on the back of the unit. This ensures that users have no trouble connecting the winch to the control box properly.

On the front of the control box, a pair of LED lights provides operator feedback during winch operation. When you first turn the unit on, both LEDs are lit in a vibrant blue color. When you begin winching in, the lights become green. If you reverse direction, the lights illuminate red to let you know. We like this feature because it removes any wonder about whether or not the cable is wrapping itself backwards on the drum when underwater. Simply look at the color of the water, and you'll know what's happening.

The handheld remote control is illuminated for use at night and features a rubberized toggle joystick placed precisely where your thumb lands when holding the unit. The switch allows infinitely variable line speeds-a first of its kind. A separate red on/off control button is also included on the remote. Robust plastic bezels on each side of the controller prevent accidental engagement should the operator drop the remote.