The winch mounting plates I've seen online (so far) all mention that they can't be used with the EcoBoots engines because they block air to the intercooler. I've seen one reference to "going with the full race intercooler", but no mention of what that "outrageously expensive" item is or where to get it. And, obviously, I'd prefer to avoid outrageously expensive.

Is there an easy and comparatively inexpensive way to get a winch onto the front of a late model EcoBoost?

 

Look at Sterling Equipment, they make them specifically for Ecoboost engine's to sit up higher and not block airflow.

Facebook pic of one installed

 

I just bought an EcoBoost after doing some extensive research on the subject since a winch will be in my future eventually. Basically here is the best/main option:

Full Race Intercooler Relocation Kit

and yes , it is outrageously expensive. Especially when combined with the cost of a winch, mount, etc.

Basically your options are

1) Full race intercooler relocation kit ($$$ expensive)

2) aftermarket bumper that does not block the intercooler ($$$ expensive and heavy)
the only one i saw was some company out of florida, can't remember the name... search this site its on here somewhere. EDIT: RobTx beat me to it... Sterling Equipment

3) front receiver hitch mount and portable winch cradle (not permanent and it sticks out a lot, terrible approach angle, but it works, and then you can move to the rear of your vehicle as well, take off when not in use, etc. I will probably end up going this way )

4) mount a winch in front of your intercooler (if you can shoehorn it in), lose access to your active shutters and hope that it doesnt block enough air to overheat and grenade your turbos?

 

Westin and Rough Country make some that say they are ok with Ecoboost. Westin's is utilitarian in appearance that has a brush guard as an option. Rough Country has their EXO mount.

 

I have not looked at theirs's recently, but they may say it is compatible with the Ecoboost, if you relocate the intercooler (in the fine print). That was what I think Fab Four said to me, even tho the website did not state that. I emailed them and specifically asked if it blocked airflow, and they said not if I relocate it. Well, DUH!

 

I've looked into your number 3 choice, a little. Haven't found a front receiver hitch with more than a 9000 lb capacity. That seems marginally adequate.

 

While the FR Intercooler is mentioned as an expensive fix, no mention of the other benifits that come with an intercooler upgrade. Improved cooling and maintained performance along with the freed up bumper space. FR may not be the only route either. KM

 

I don't have much to add but I love this picture and the thread made me think of it. It ts the full race setup, FYI.

@jasonkn88 on insta

 

This one makes my weenie tingle a little. Any idea what's the bumper and winch mount?

 

I dont wanna speak too much for the guy but pretty sure its an RPG. May be customized a bit for the winch.