Hello all,
Enjoying my "new" Freelander 2 i6, I'd like to install a winch.
So, having a 2007 model, that is the old style front bumper. I have watched videos on flutube of an install of a winch on this type, and it works well, until there's a cut in the front bumper, that I don't like. I realise that it may be needed, but maybe more elegant solutions are at hand?

Looking at the facelifted 2010 front bumper, the grille is moved up a lot and there's now a wide horisontal slot below, but above the lic. plate.
Can that slot be used for the winch purpose? Or is it actually meant for that?
If not, then what is it for?

But if yes, it still means that a hook can or will flap over the lic. plate which is illegal. A magnetic flipping lic. plate holder is also highly illegal and I would get a hig fine...
So, what can be done?

And does someone have pictures of winches installed on Freelander 2's? They are most welcome.

I am also looking for functionable under trays that can take a beating and protect the front and more of the underside, maybe tanks etc? Are there sensitive areas that must/should be protected?

Kind regards,
Redfox.

ps: yeah, yeah, I know, an Alpaca colored carpet and leather smitten Freelander 2 is not so practical, but more elegant. Well, I'll make it both elegant and practical then.

I have a Discovery 4 not a Freelander but I have an elegant solution. I have fitted a front tow hitch which includes a 2 inch square socket on the vehicle, and have a winch on a removable platform that plugs into the socket. No carrying weight when not needed, and an easy fit with little cutting. Everyone can spread it - Anyone can catch it. Stay home - the life you save can be your own!

Try this.
https://www.muddymods.com/collections/free...tank-guard
I don’t know if they still make them.
There is also a version from a firm called Mantec along with a better front bash plate but Mantec went bust years ago. They sometimes come up on the bay of thieves.

The winch will need a hole in the bumper for the fairlead. Unfortunately there wasn't an LR winch option, so it'll be an aftermarket tray with the necessary modifications to make it work correctly.

The fuel tank is the most vulnerable part of the underside, which is difficult to protect because it hangs quite low. There was a Mantec guard available at one time, but those are NLA.

Muddy Mods is your best bet. However keep in mind that the Freelander isn't designed as a hard core off road vehicle, so expect components to fail if it's heavily used as one. 2009 Rimini Red SE TD4. Soon to be sold.
Hyundai Ionic 5 Ultimate on order.
Gone. 2006 Tonga Green i6 HSE.

2" square socket as a rear tow point,
mount the winch on this and then you can pull yourself OUT of
trouble and not INTO.
it can make a nice clean installation and you've no
need to carry a heavy winch around all the time,
I do wonder where an owner stands regarding insurance on
a front mounted winch. DAVE.
I.A.M. F1rst Driver.
Gone 2003 Discovery TD5 Auto,
Gone 1986 Defender 90 Station Wagon
Gone 1984 Range Rover 3.5 Vogue Manual.
Gone 1970 Series 11A/3 SWB 3.5 V8 Hybrid
Gone 1964 Series 11A LWB Van
Gone 1966 Series 11A SWB Van
Gone 1964 Series 11A LWB Station Wagon,

The English rules of insurance companies, where if you put a small sticker on a window of your car, change a wheel nut etc, the insurance won't pay in case of a claim not regarding anything of what you did to your car, or rises astronomically, is not in effect here where I live.
But there are strict state controlled rules for near everything...

Cheers,
Redfox.