If you watch the video this post is tied to, you already know the punchline: our X-Bull 13,000-pound winch started pulling in on its own. Not once. Sporadically, while we were traveling. The hook was dangling, the line was wrapping over itself, and a 13k winch has more than enough torque to turn a bumper and winch plate into a science project.
Luckily it never hit the ground. Unluckily, it still did a lot of work we never asked it to do.
What actually happened
The winch would retract on its own. We ruled out an obvious short — nothing for the wiring to rub or short against. That left a bad remote, a bad internal control, or a unit that was picking up a signal it shouldn’t have. Whatever the cause, the result was the same: the drum kept winding when it shouldn’t.
The rope itself was a nice 20,000-pound-test synthetic, wound picture-perfect when we started. After the sandwich job? Maybe it’s still usable for dead-pulling something onto a trailer. We would not trust it in a real recovery.
The bumper took the hit. The front got smashed in. The plate came up off the mount. A whole sheet of steel got yanked forward. Bolts stayed in and stayed relatively straight. We didn’t see stress cracks in the paint or obvious weld damage on the frame. That’s a credit to the JCR Off-Road JL winch plate — high-quality steel, no rips, powder coat that took a beating without looking like it failed. The mount holding together under a runaway 13k winch says a lot about how that plate is built.
Getting the old winch off was ugly. The plate was bowed. Bolts were a little tweaked. We eventually got it out, flipped the plate, and used a floor jack to work some of the bend back out. Steel like that can be manipulated. Strength is reduced after that kind of event — we know that — so we inspected for pinched spots and cracks before putting anything back on. For full disclosure: if this were a customer truck, we’d still send the plate to an authorized shop or back to JCR and let them look at it. They’re going to ask what we did to their part. Fair question.
After many painful hours the bumper went back on. It was still tweaked. Everything fought us.
The replacement
X-Bull did send a new winch. We appreciate that. Credit where it’s due.
It was not a one-email, one-box, done deal. There was back and forth. There was a stretch where it was not obvious we were going to get a replacement at all. We kept after it, and they came through. That matters. A lot of budget winch brands don’t.
We still don’t have a clean root-cause answer from the unit itself — remote vs. internal vs. “whatever it is.” The video is us digging in, not a lab teardown.
Why we didn’t stay with X-Bull
A winch that can energize itself while you’re rolling down the road is not a “cheap winch quirk.” It’s a vehicle-damage and people-safety problem. The damage happened fast. A lot of times you don’t even see it starting.
We’ve since gone with a different brand. Price is not the only spec that matters when the failure mode is “it runs when nobody asked it to.”
If your winch starts acting weird
Disconnect power immediately. Do not let it keep over-tightening. Do not assume it will stop. A 13,000-pound motor will rearrange steel in a very small amount of time.
Live and learn. Check your remote, your solenoid/control box, your wiring, and your battery connections. If anything feels intermittent, kill the circuit until you know why.
JCR’s plate earned our respect in this mess. X-Bull earned a replacement unit after we pushed. The original winch did not earn a second chance on this Jeep.
That’s the review. Watch the video for the bent plate, the fairlead that folded without cracking, and the part where hammers become part of the tool list. We’ll see you in the next one.
By Ryan, Backroad Reviews Product: Xitalia Dog Car Door Protectors, 2-Pack Covers for Trucks & Large SUVs Test vehicle: 2013 GMC Sierra 1500 four-door Buy:https://amzn.to/4ylbEcq
This post contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through those links, Backroad Reviews may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we have actually handled and would use with our own animals.
Hey folks, Ryan here from Backroad Reviews.
We had to get some door protectors so we could bring our beloved pet with us everywhere we go. That is the whole story. A good truck is an investment. A good dog is family. Those two things collide on the rear door panel the first time she puts her paws up and looks out the window.
We installed the Xitalia Dog Car Door Protectors — a 2-pack made for trucks and large SUVs — on our 2013 GMC Sierra 1500 four-door. We walked the stitching, the pockets, the plastic window tabs, and the Velcro. Then we put her in the back seat and let her come along.
Short version: they are quite affordable, very easy to install, the quilted fabric and stitching feel durable, and they should last a long time. She is super happy she can come on rides. We do not have to sit there watching claw marks show up on a truck we care about.
What these are
Xitalia’s set is two interior door covers. Each one hangs over the panel where a dog leans, stands, slobbers, and claws. The face is a thick quilted fabric with a honeycomb texture. A padded band sits along the window sill. Down low there are two large mesh pockets.
They stay on with two systems at once:
Plastic tabs that tuck behind the window glass — three of them
Velcro — two tabs on the windowsill, three under the armrest and handle
That combination is the design. You can roll the window up and down and the cover stays put. Peel the Velcro when you want it off to clean.
Why we bought them
We did not want another thin flap that slides the first time a dog leans on it. We needed something that would:
Fit a real truck door, not just a compact sedan
Install with no tools
Take actual nails
Come off clean when we want the stock interior back
Cost less than refinishing a door panel
The Sierra 1500 four-door is the truck we live with. If it works here, it will work on a lot of other full-size trucks and large SUVs.
Build quality
Out of the package these feel more substantial than the price. The quilting is even. The stitching along the padded top band and around the mesh pockets is clean — no loose threads, no cheap zigzag that will pop on the first claw.
The hexagon texture is not just for looks. It gives the surface some structure so a paw does not just slide and shred a thin face fabric. We pressed on it, tugged the seams, and ran a thumbnail across the quilt lines. It will hold up to our dog’s nails very well.
The padded strip along the sill is the right idea. That is where she rests her chest and front paws. Extra padding there keeps the cover from looking like a wrinkled tarp after one ride.
Install on the 2013 Sierra 1500
No drills. No adhesive tape that cooks off in an Arkansas summer. No twenty-minute fight around a speaker grille.
Here is how it goes on our rear doors:
Slide the three plastic tabs down behind the window glass.
Smooth the padded band along the windowsill.
Stick the two Velcro tabs up top on the sill.
Stick the three Velcro tabs underneath so the cover follows the armrest.
Tug it flat over the scratch zone.
To take it off, peel the Velcro and lift the tabs out of the window channel. Easy to pull, easy to clean, easy to put back.
The tabs behind the glass are the neat part. Roll the window down and the cover stays. Most cheap covers fail that test.
It follows the door, not just the flat panel
A lot of universal covers look fine in a product photo and then float off the armrest in a real truck. On the Sierra, this cover contours to the armrest and the windowsill. That matters. When she puts her paws up there, the cover stays in place instead of bunching or sliding off the grab area.
Pockets you will actually use
Each cover has two large mesh pockets. On a truck door those hold a leash, a roll of bags, a collapsible bowl, treats, or a towel for muddy paws. The mesh is stitched into the quilted body, not glued on. We pulled the opening and it did not feel like it would tear off the first time a wet leash goes in.
What people usually say about this style of cover
Xitalia is one name in a crowded tab-and-Velcro niche. Across similar listings the pattern is consistent.
What people like
Fast, no-tool install
Stops the obvious claw marks on rear doors
Pockets are more useful than expected
Price is a lot cheaper than a door-panel repair
Window still works after install
What people complain about
“Universal” is never perfect on every truck
A tab can slip if you drop the glass all the way into the door
Cheap versions have weak stitching — inspect the seams before you trust them
Very large or odd-shaped doors may need a tug and a readjust
That lines up with what we saw on the Sierra. The set we handled sits on the better-made side of the budget category. The stitching and the tab-plus-Velcro layout are why we are comfortable recommending them.
What we like
Quite affordable 2-pack instead of body-shop money
Very easy install on a 2013 Sierra 1500 four-door
Window goes up and down; cover stays
Quilted hex fabric and clean stitching
Two large mesh pockets per cover
Contours to the armrest and the sill, so paws do not shove it off
Peels off to clean
Comes as a set of two
She gets to ride and the truck stays clean
What to know before you buy
Measure your door panel. These are aimed at trucks and large SUVs. Confirm the cover will hide the scratch zone on your door.
If you habitually drop the window all the way into the door, reseat the plastic tabs.
These protect the interior panel, not the exterior paint and not the window tint.
Dark covers show dust and hair. Wipe them.
No fabric cover is chew-proof. This is a scratch and slobber shield.
Who these are for
Truck and large-SUV owners who let the dog ride in the back. Anyone who just paid for a decent interior and does not want claw tracks in month two. People who want something they can take off for a Sunday drive or a trade-in. Homestead and hunting-dog households that need a leash and bags right on the door.
If your dog never stands at the window, you do not need these. If your dog lives at the window, you do.
Quick specs from the driveway
Brand / product: Xitalia Dog Car Door Protectors, 2-Pack
Intended fit: Trucks and large SUVs
Vehicle we used: 2013 GMC Sierra 1500 four-door
Attachment: 3 plastic window tabs + Velcro (2 on the sill, 3 under the armrest / handle)
Face: Quilted hex / honeycomb fabric
Top edge: Padded band along the windowsill
Storage: Two large mesh pockets per cover
Removal: Peel Velcro, lift tabs
Window use: Designed to stay in place with the glass down
We needed a way to bring our dog without putting marks on a truck we care about. The Xitalia 2-pack is quite affordable, very easy to install, and durable enough that it should last a long time on a working Sierra. The stitching is better than the price. The pockets are useful. The plastic tabs behind the glass are a genuinely neat design — roll the window down and the cover stays where you put it. On our four-door it follows the armrest and the sill, which is what keeps it from shifting when she puts her paws up.
Hook the tabs. Stick the Velcro. Let her come.
She is a good girl. The truck stays clean. That is the test that matters.
Hey folks, welcome back to Backroad Reviews! If you’re like us—spending your weekends tearing up trails on ATVs, hauling gear in your Jeep, or maintaining farm equipment—you know how quickly dirt, mud, and grease can build up. That’s why we’re excited to dive into our review of the SIMPSON Powershot 3500 PSI 2.5 GPM Cold Water Gas Pressure Washer. This beast has become our go-to for keeping everything spotless, and after putting it through its paces, we’re hooked. We even shot a detailed unboxing and setup video (check it out below or on our channel), where we walked through the whole process from box to blast.
Unboxing and Setup: Built Like a Tank
Right out of the gate, this Simpson unit screams quality. As we noted in our video, Simpson is a staple in the power washing world, with parts readily available worldwide, a solid warranty, and easy-to-reach customer service—huge wins compared to some off-brand washers we’ve dealt with over the years. Assembled in the USA with a premium engine, it’s clear this isn’t your average homeowner model.
Unpacking was straightforward. The frame is powder-coated for durability, with hard industrial rubber stoppers on the bottom and pneumatic tires that we pumped up a bit for better maneuverability. We loved the rubber nozzle holders (not those flimsy plastic clips that snap in cold weather), and the high-quality kink-resistant hose rated for up to 3,700 PSI. The wand is brightly colored with a safety guard, and everything from the double O-rings to the large soap pickup line (perfect for a 5-gallon bucket) feels pro-grade.
One pleasant surprise? It came with AMSOIL synthetic oil, which we weren’t expecting but greatly appreciated. As fans of American-made products (shoutout to Superior, Wisconsin!), we run AMSOIL in all our high-performance engines anyway—it’s top-tier for longevity and doesn’t play nice if you switch brands mid-stream. We topped it off, added some fuel stabilizer like Mechanic in a Bottle to keep things gum-free, and followed the video’s tips: lightly pull the cord to circulate oil before the first start, purge air from the system to avoid vapor lock, and give it a gentle break-in period. Fired right up on the first pull—no choke needed!
Power and Performance: Cleaning Everything from Mud to Machinery
With 3500 PSI and 2.5 GPM, this cold-water gas washer delivers serious punch without overwhelming you. In our video, we highlighted how it’s carbureted (not fuel-injected) for easy maintenance, with an easy-to-access air filter that’s lightly pre-oiled and replaceable numbers right at your fingertips. It handles up to 10% ethanol fuel, but we stick to non-ethanol with stabilizers for longevity—pro tip from years of small-engine headaches.
We’ve used this bad boy extensively on our backroad fleet, and it’s been a game-changer. It blasted caked-on trail mud off our motorcycles in minutes, stripped road salt from the car without a hitch, and powered through grease on the Jeep’s undercarriage. Our ATVs and UTVs came out looking showroom-new after off-road adventures, and it even handled the tractor and its implements like a champ—think plows and mowers coated in field grime. The five included spray tips give versatility for everything from gentle rinses to high-pressure stripping, and the quick-connect system makes swapping them effortless. No leaks, no fuss, and it runs cool even after hours of use. If you’re prepping for a big job, like washing a concrete driveway, this unit’s flow and reliability shine.
What Others Are Saying: Online Reviews Roundup
We’re not alone in our praise—online feedback echoes our experience, with an average rating around 4.5 out of 5 stars across sites. Users rave about the impressive power and cleaning speed, noting how it tackles tough jobs like driveways and home exteriors with ease. Many highlight the easy assembly and startup, especially with the reliable engine (variants include Honda GX200 or Simpson CRX210, both praised for performance). Pros often include the professional-grade build, PowerBoost technology for extra nozzle pressure, and value for the buck—great for contractors or heavy DIYers. Folks appreciate the pneumatic tires for mobility and the overall durability, calling it “the best power washer one can get” with “plenty of power.”
On the flip side, some users mention minor gripes. A few noted missing parts lists or user manuals in the box, making initial setup a tad frustrating if you’re not video-savvy. Others wished for a longer wand to reduce bending, and accessories like pump guards can feel pricey. Rarely, brand-new units had small issues like needing adjustments, but these seem isolated, with most reviews emphasizing long-term reliability over cheaper alternatives. Overall, the positives far outweigh the cons, especially for those who value American engineering and pro-level performance.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Have for Backroad Warriors
If you’re in the market for a pressure washer that can handle the rigors of rural life—from vehicle maintenance to property upkeep—the SIMPSON Powershot 3500 PSI is a winner. It’s powerful, user-friendly, and built to last, making quick work of our motorcycles, car, Jeep, ATVs, UTVs, tractor, and implements. Pair it with good fuel practices (like we did in the video), and it’ll serve you for years. We give it a solid 5 stars—grab one from Lowe’s and thank us later!
Check out our full video review below for the step-by-step unboxing and tips. What’s your go-to cleaning gear? Drop a comment!
Hey Jeep enthusiasts! It’s Ryan from Backroad Reviews, bringing you another product review that’s sure to brighten your off-road adventures. Today, we’re talking about the Diode Dynamics SS30 Hardtop LED Kit White Flood, a lighting upgrade designed specifically for the 2018-2023 Jeep JL Wrangler. This rugged, high-performance light bar is more than just a flashy add-on—it’s a game-changer for anyone serious about nighttime trail rides.
Table of Contents
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Unboxing & First Impressions
The moment I opened the box, I could tell this kit means business. The components feel rock-solid. The mounting brackets are crafted from heavy-duty metal with a durable powder-coat finish, ensuring they won’t rust after a few rainy adventures. The light bar itself is sturdy and sleek, with a no-nonsense design that complements the aggressive look of the Jeep JL Wrangler.
What really impressed me was the attention to detail. The wiring harness is rugged and comes with all the necessary connectors, fuses, and relays. You can tell Diode Dynamics took the time to make sure even the small components are built to last.
Installation Made Easy
One of the biggest concerns when upgrading your Jeep is whether the installation process will require a master’s degree in automotive engineering. Thankfully, Diode Dynamics made sure the SS30 Hardtop LED Kit is DIY-friendly.
Tools You’ll Need:
Basic hand tools (socket set, wrenches, etc.)
A clean workspace
About an hour of your time
The CAD-designed mounting brackets fit perfectly on the factory rear window hinge, utilizing existing mounting points. No cutting, no drilling, and best of all—no swearing at stubborn bolts! I had the entire setup installed in just under an hour.
Pro Tip:
Lay out all the components before you begin and double-check the wiring diagram. This can save you time and reduce frustration.
Performance & Lighting Output
Once installed, it was time for the fun part—testing the light bar on the trail. The SS30 LED Light Bar is a powerhouse. With an output of 11,400 lumens and a color temperature of 6,000K, it delivers a bright, white light that floods the area with clarity.
Lighting Features:
Wide Flood Pattern: Covers a broad area, making it perfect for night trail runs, campsite setup, or even emergency roadside repairs.
Anti-Glare Design: While the light is powerful, its design minimizes glare, so you won’t blind your trail buddies.
Wind Noise Control: Unlike some cheap aftermarket lights, this bar creates zero wind noise, even at highway speeds.
Whether you’re driving through rugged mountain passes or setting up camp late at night, this light bar turns pitch-black surroundings into daylight. It’s like having your own personal sun mounted on the back of your Jeep!
Real-World Feedback from Jeep Owners
Before writing this review, I checked what other Jeep owners are saying online, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Here are some highlights:
“Perfect for trail runs and setting up camp.”
“The wind-noise reduction feature is a game-changer.”
“Super easy to install—no drilling required!”
“Looks awesome and works even better.”
The consensus seems to be that this light bar not only looks cool but also functions like a premium piece of off-road gear.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
✅ Easy installation with no cutting or drilling required ✅ High-quality materials built to withstand harsh weather ✅ Superior light output with a broad flood pattern ✅ Sleek, low-profile design that eliminates wind noise ✅ Backed by a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty
Cons:
❌ Price is on the higher side (but worth it for serious off-roaders) ❌ Requires a bit of electrical know-how if you’re unfamiliar with automotive wiring
Why Choose the Diode Dynamics SS30 Hardtop LED Kit?
If you’re serious about off-roading, overlanding, or just looking cool while driving through town, the Diode Dynamics SS30 Hardtop LED Kit is a fantastic investment. It enhances both the functionality and style of your Jeep JL Wrangler, making it trail-ready in even the darkest environments.
Whether you’re navigating rugged trails, setting up camp, or just showing off your rig at Jeep meets, this light bar is guaranteed to impress. Plus, with Diode Dynamics’ 3-year warranty, you can hit the road with peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
After installing and testing the Diode Dynamics SS30 Hardtop LED Kit White Flood, I can confidently say it’s one of the best lighting upgrades available for the Jeep JL Wrangler. It’s built tough, shines bright, and installs easily. What more could you want from an off-road accessory?
For a full breakdown of the installation process and a hands-on performance test, check out my video review on Backroad Reviews. Don’t miss it—it’s packed with tips, tricks, and a whole lot of Jeep-loving fun!
https://t.co/VYpfPEZVX2 Today, we’re talking about the Diode Dynamics SS30 Hardtop LED Kit White Flood, a lighting upgrade designed specifically for the 2018-2023 Jeep JL Wrangler. This rugged, high-performance light bar is more than just a flashy add-on—it’s a game-changer for… pic.twitter.com/7jH0tA82YU
Quality Rough Country’s 3/4″ Black Cast Steel D-Ring Shackles by Rough Country
Ryan Harden (Backroad Reviews): Off-road enthusiasts, adventurers, and anyone who demands the utmost reliability from their gear, listen up! Today, we’re diving deep into a product that could be a lifesaver – literally – in a sticky situation: Rough Country’s 3/4″ Black Cast Steel D-Ring Shackles.
Imagine this: You’re miles off the beaten path, exploring that hidden trail you’ve been itching to conquer. Suddenly, your rig gets stuck – axle-deep mud, a rocky ledge, or even a deep snowdrift. What do you do?
This is where a reliable set of D-ring shackles can be your best friend. They provide a secure attachment point for your recovery gear, whether it’s a winch line, tow strap, or snatch block.
Rough Country’s 3/4″ Shackles: A Closer Look
Heavy-Duty Construction: These shackles are not your average hardware store find. They’re crafted from high-quality cast steel, built to withstand the punishing forces of off-road recovery.
Corrosion-Resistant Finish: A durable black finish not only looks great but also protects the shackles from rust and corrosion, ensuring they’re ready when you need them most.
Impressive Strength: Rated for a whopping 9,500 lbs. working load limit, these shackles can handle even the most challenging recoveries.
Versatile Design: The 3/4″ size is perfect for most off-road vehicles and recovery gear, making these shackles a versatile addition to your recovery kit.
Easy Installation: The threaded buckle design allows for quick and secure mounting to your vehicle’s tow points or recovery points.
My Experience with Rough Country Shackles
I’ve put these shackles to the test on countless adventures, and they’ve never let me down. The peace of mind knowing that I have a reliable recovery point is priceless. Whether I’m pulling myself out of a jam or helping a fellow adventurer, these shackles have proven their worth time and time again.
Who Needs These Shackles?
Off-road enthusiasts
Overlanders
Jeep owners
Truck owners
Anyone who ventures off the pavement
Amazon Affiliate Notice: As an Amazon Associate, Backroad Reviews may earn commissions from qualifying purchases made through links in this description.
Rough Country Front Black Steel Grab Handles: The Ultimate Upgrade for Your Jeep Wrangler JK (2007-2018)
Detailed Product Description:
Greetings, fellow Jeepers! Ryan Harden here from Backroad Reviews, your trusted source for honest, in-depth assessments of the gear that gets you out there and exploring. Today, we’re diving into an accessory that might seem simple, but makes a world of difference for your Jeep Wrangler JK adventures: the Rough Country Front Black Steel Grab Handles. If your Jeep’s been lifted, you’re an avid off-roader, or you simply value a sturdy grip and a touch of rugged style, these grab handles deserve your attention.
Why Choose Rough Country Grab Handles Over the Rest?
Let’s be real, there are plenty of grab handles out there. So, what sets Rough Country’s apart from the pack? Let’s break down the key reasons these handles have become a staple in the Jeep community:
Uncompromising Durability: These aren’t your average grab handles. Crafted from a hefty 3/4-inch thick steel, they’re built to endure the harshest trails and the most demanding conditions. Whether you’re rock crawling, mudding, or just tackling the daily commute, these handles are up to the challenge. They’re not going to bend, break, or let you down when you need them most.
Comfort Meets Functionality: The handles are wrapped in a thick, textured rubber grip that feels great in your hand, even when it’s wet or dusty. The embossed Rough Country logo adds a touch of style, but more importantly, it enhances your grip, ensuring you have a secure hold when entering or exiting your lifted Jeep.
Effortless Installation: One of the things we love most about these grab handles is how simple they are to install. They utilize the existing mounting points in your Jeep Wrangler JK’s A-pillar, so there’s no drilling, cutting, or modifying required. It’s a truly bolt-on solution, perfect for DIY enthusiasts and anyone who values their time.
Stealthy Style: The black powder-coated finish isn’t just about looks (though it does look pretty darn good). This coating protects the steel from rust, corrosion, and general wear and tear, ensuring your grab handles stay looking sharp for years to come. Plus, the black finish seamlessly blends with your Jeep’s interior, adding a touch of rugged refinement.
Lifetime Warranty: Rough Country is so confident in the quality and durability of their grab handles that they back them with a lifetime replacement warranty. That means you can confidently conquer any trail, knowing that if anything ever happens to your grab handles, Rough Country has your back.
https://t.co/vBYHBacLClhttps://t.co/hrwzbmjVjs Why Choose Rough Country Grab Handles Over the Rest? Let's be real, there are plenty of grab handles out there. So, what sets Rough Country's apart from the pack? Let's break down the key reasons these handles have become a staple… pic.twitter.com/Ei7tjf6qCv
Lifted Jeep Owners: If you’ve added a lift kit to your Jeep Wrangler JK, you know how much more difficult it can be to climb in and out. These grab handles make it infinitely easier, saving you from awkward maneuvers and potential falls.
Off-Road Warriors: If you’re regularly venturing off the beaten path, these grab handles provide an added layer of security and stability. Whether you’re bouncing over rocks, navigating steep inclines, or simply dealing with unexpected bumps in the road, these handles offer a secure handhold to keep you balanced and in control.
Jeep Lovers: Even if you’re not a hardcore off-roader, these grab handles are a fantastic addition to any Jeep Wrangler JK. They enhance the overall look and feel of your Jeep’s interior, giving it a more rugged and purposeful appearance.
Anyone Needing Extra Support: Whether you have mobility issues, are recovering from an injury, or simply appreciate a helping hand, these grab handles can make a world of difference in how easily and comfortably you get in and out of your Jeep.
Backroad Reviews’ Final Thoughts:
In our book, these Rough Country grab handles are an absolute no-brainer for any Jeep Wrangler JK owner. They offer a perfect blend of practicality, durability, and style, all at a price that won’t break the bank. If you’re looking for an easy, effective way to upgrade your Jeep and enhance your overall off-road experience, these grab handles are a must-have.
