Overview
The Smittybilt 97612 is the XRC GEN3 12K winch with steel cable, rated for 12000 lb line pull. The Gen3 line was redesigned by Smittybilt around ease of use and power efficiency, and this model keeps the steel cable and roller fairlead of the standard configuration.
Smittybilt credits the 7.0 hp motor with a 12% average line speed increase over the Gen2 winch, while drawing less amperage at load. The remote is designed for simple operation, with a load indicator warning system, a built-in flashlight and two magnets for mounting on a metal surface.
The XRC Gen3 comes in 9.5k and 12k capacities. The 12k steel-cable version carries a lifetime mechanical warranty and a 5-year electrical warranty. Steel cable is the standard line type across the XRC GEN3 family, and many recovery crews know it well.
Key features
- 12000 lb line pull rating
- 7.0 hp motor with a 12% average line speed increase over Gen2, per Smittybilt
- Roller fairlead on steel cable
- Load indicator warning system on the remote
- Remote with a built-in flashlight and two magnets
- Clutch lever with a high-visibility label showing engaged or free-spool status
- Detachable body armor for a custom look
Steel cable maintenance
Steel cable is durable and tolerates abrasion better than synthetic rope, but it needs regular inspection. Look along the full length for kinks, broken strands, flattened sections and rust, and replace any cable that shows damage. A kinked cable loses strength at the kink and can fail under load.
Rewind the cable under light tension so it spools evenly onto the drum. Uneven layers can crush the lower wraps and make the next pull less predictable. Wipe the cable clean after muddy recoveries and apply a light protective lubricant to slow rust.
Keep the roller fairlead free of grit and check that it turns freely. A seized roller forces the cable to drag across the fairlead, which wears both parts.
- Inspect the full cable length before each use
- Rewind under light tension for an even spool
- Lubricate lightly to slow rust
Specifications
| Brand | Smittybilt |
|---|---|
| Part number | 97612 |
| Line pull rating | 12000 lb |
| Remote lead | 12 ft. |
| Fairlead | Roller |
| Line type | Steel cable |
| Motor | 7.0 hp |
| Warranty | Lifetime mechanical, 5 year electrical |
Vehicle fitment
The winch is a universal-fit model, so the mounting plate and bumper on your vehicle decide whether it will bolt on. Check them before ordering.
Confirm your vehicle’s year, model and trim before ordering.
Installation notes
Keep the steel cable clear of sharp edges during installation and inspect the cable for kinks before each use. Keep people out of the cable’s path when the winch is under load.
What’s included
The remote and the detachable body armor are part of the winch. Mounting hardware and the cable’s length aren’t itemized, so confirm them with Smittybilt before ordering.
