white 2012 Rubicon 1000kms
 

Hi Dave O'H. here.
As you see I am new Jeep owner and wonder if I can attach winch to stock bumper? You know to save money. Thanks
Oh and can I remove the soft top without first removing the hard top?
So many things to learn!!!!!
Thanks.

Re: white 2012 Rubicon 1000kms
 

Hi Dave, welcome to the Jeep world and congrats on you new Jeep :) You can surely put a winch on your stock bumper. You will need a winch plate - Jeep JK Factory Bumper Winch Plate - less expensive than aftermarket bumper. But in my opinion, these plastic stock bumpers are weak. If you are serious about wheeling, you might end up changing your bumper in the future and then your winch plate will be a waste of $$$.

For the soft top question, it might be doable to remove it without pulling off your hard top but good luck. If you want to avoid scratching everything, I suggest you get partner to help you take off the hard top then the soft top.

Happy wheelin'!!

Re: white 2012 Rubicon 1000kms
 

When I picked up my JKU it was March so not nice enough for the soft top to go on as it was still snowing, but I wanted access to the rear cargo area which the soft top blocks from the factory.

I unbolted the hard top and soft top, then got in the cargo area and stood up slowly and lifted the hard top up enough while my wife pulled out the soft top out from its factory location. Bolt the hard top back on and you are set. Hope this somewhat answers your questions. Enjoy your new Jeep!