Badland Apex 56385 Winch Installation and Safety Guidelines

For off-road enthusiasts and vehicle owners in need of reliable recovery equipment, the Badland Apex 56385 12,000 lb winch with synthetic rope and wireless remote is a robust solution designed to meet the demands of rugged terrain. This article provides a detailed, step-by-step guide to the installation of the Badland Apex 56385, alongside essential safety protocols and technical specifications. The instructions are drawn exclusively from the official manual and product documentation provided by the manufacturer.

Installation Overview and Requirements

Before beginning the installation of the Badland Apex 56385 winch, it is important to understand the components included and the prerequisites for a successful setup. The winch is designed for vehicle recovery and is compatible with trucks and SUVs. It features a 12 VDC series wound motor, an aluminum fairlead, and a synthetic rope measuring 0.375 inches in diameter with a length of 80 feet. The winch includes a wireless remote control with a range of up to 50 feet and a wired control option with a 12-foot cord.

The following components are included in the package:

• Winch x 1
• Aluminum Fairlead x 1
• Remote Control x 1
• Remote Control Cable x 1
• Hook x 1
• Rope Protecting Mat x 2
• Ground Cable x 1
• Disconnect Switch x 1
• Red Hook Strap x 1
• Control Box Baseplate x 1
• Sheath (red, black, yellow) x 3
• Extended Copper Screw x 3
• Small Black Wire Extension x 1
• Small Black Wire Connector x 1
• Disconnect Switch Cable x 1
• Terminal Box x 1
• Terminal Box Cover x 1
• Power Cables (relocation kit) x 3
• Instruction Books

Prior to installation, it is crucial to verify that the vehicle's mounting area is suitable for the winch. The mounting plate must be rated to at least the winch’s capacity of 12,000 lbs. The winch should be aligned perpendicular to the centerline of the vehicle at the desired location, and the mounting hole positions should be carefully marked and compared to the provided diagram.

Step-by-Step Installation Instructions

1. Preparation and Inspection
   Before beginning installation, ensure that the winch and all included components are intact and undamaged. If any parts are missing or broken, contact the manufacturer at 1-888-866-5797 as soon as possible. The manufacturer provides a 5-year limited warranty for the winch itself and a 1-year warranty for mounts, cables, and accessories.

2. Mounting the Winch

   • Align the winch perpendicular to the centerline of the vehicle at the chosen location.
   • Mark the positions of the winch base holes.
   • Verify that the installation surface has no hidden components or structural pieces that may be damaged during drilling.
   • Drill holes at the marked locations, ensuring they are appropriately sized for the hardware.
   • Use the supplied hardware (8 x Gr8.8, M10 x 30 mm for the winch and 2 x Gr8.8, M12 x 40 mm for the fairlead) to secure the winch and fairlead in place.

3. Electrical Connections

   • Use the supplied power cords and synthetic rope as specified in the manual. Do not use thinner or longer cables, and avoid linking multiple cables together.
   • Route the electrical cables away from sharp edges and moving or hot parts.
   • Connect the red cable to the disconnect switch, then connect the 12-inch 2 AWG cable to the disconnect switch and the positive battery terminal.
   • Connect the black cable to the negative battery terminal.
   • Insulate all exposed wiring and terminals after installation to prevent short circuits and ensure safety.

4. Battery Safety and Ventilation

   • Before and during battery work, ensure proper ventilation to prevent the accumulation of hydrogen gas, which can be explosive.
   • Work only on a clean, corrosion-free battery.
   • Remove all metal jewelry before working near the battery.
   • Avoid leaning over or coming into contact with the battery during connection.
   • Use a disconnect switch to safely manage power flow.

5. Control Box and Remote Setup

   • If relocating the control box is necessary, perform the cable removal and installation before mounting the winch.
   • Ensure that the control box is securely mounted and wired according to the instructions in the manual.
   • Test the wireless remote to ensure that it functions correctly and can control the winch from up to 50 feet away.

6. Final Checks and Testing

   • After installation, inspect all connections and hardware to ensure they are secure and correctly positioned.
   • Test the winch operation to confirm that it functions smoothly and efficiently.
   • Ensure that the synthetic rope spools cleanly onto the drum and that the automatic brake holds the load securely.
   • Maintain the labels and nameplates on the winch, as they contain important safety information.

Safety Precautions and Best Practices

Working with a winch involves the use of high forces and electrical components, making it essential to follow strict safety protocols. The following precautions should be taken to ensure a safe installation and operation:

• Wear Protective Gear: Always wear ANSI-approved safety goggles and heavy-duty leather work gloves during installation and service.
• Disconnect Power Before Service: Before performing any maintenance or service on the winch, disconnect the power and allow the winch to cool completely.
• Avoid Battery Hazards: When working with the vehicle’s battery, ensure proper ventilation to prevent the accumulation of explosive hydrogen gas. Never lean over or come into contact with the battery while making connections.
• Use Manufacturer-Approved Components: Only use the supplied power cords, synthetic rope, and cables listed in the manual. Do not use thinner or longer cables, and avoid linking multiple cables together.
• Professional Assistance for Complex Repairs: If the winch requires servicing, have it done by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts. This ensures the safety and integrity of the winch.

Technical Specifications and Performance

The Badland Apex 56385 is designed to deliver reliable performance in off-road recovery situations. Below are the key technical specifications for the winch:

The winch is equipped with a precision planetary gear train that minimizes friction and chatter, enabling fast line speed and smooth operation. The aircraft-grade steel wire rope or durable synthetic line spools cleanly onto the drum, ensuring tangle-free performance. The automatic brake system holds loads securely, providing peace of mind during recovery operations.

Warranty and Support

The Badland Apex 56385 comes with a 5-year limited warranty for the winch itself, with mounts, cables, and accessories generally warranted for 1 year. The manufacturer encourages users to contact customer support for any replacement parts or issues. To expedite warranty claims, users should have their receipt and winch serial number available when reaching out.

For those who prefer not to install the winch themselves, the manufacturer recommends consulting an experienced off-road shop for installation assistance. The mounting instructions provided with the winch include detailed steps to guide users through the process, and the support team is available to answer any mounting questions before installation begins.

Conclusion

The Badland Apex 56385 12,000 lb winch with synthetic rope and wireless remote is a high-performance solution for vehicle recovery. With its robust construction, advanced motor system, and user-friendly controls, it is well-suited for a wide range of off-road scenarios. The installation process is detailed in the official manual, and following the provided instructions ensures a safe and effective setup. Adhering to the safety guidelines and using manufacturer-approved components is essential to maintaining the winch’s performance and longevity. For users seeking customization or replacement parts, the manufacturer offers a full range of accessories tailored to the Badland Apex 56385.

Sources

1. Badland Winch Product Information and Warranty
2. Badland Apex 56385 Owner’s Manual