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Factor55 Flatlink

jetrinka

jetrinka

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Wanted to hear peoples opinions on the flatlink setup by Factor55? Looks like an interesting setup that supposedly makes things a bit safer. I also like that you can get a cover for the synthetic line where it loops into the link however I am very new to the world of off-road and recovery (1st winch here) so I wanted to pick peoples brains who know better. Thanks!
 
The product in question

factor55.com

FlatLink

Upgrade your winch hook with a Flatlink for a more reliable, Closed System Winching® technique. Using rigging comprised entirely of closed-link hardware gives you the extra security and confidence needed to tackle the most demanding winch recoveries.
factor55.com factor55.com
 
I've found the FlatLink E to be much more useful if you are recovering other people. If the person being recovered has metal d-rings on their front bumper you need to use flatlink to soft shackle to bumper shackle. Or run your soft shackle through their bumper which often has sharp metal edges. With the expert version, their bumper d-link will fit through the Flatlink E and you can skip the soft shackle.

I might get one for my PW. On my Jeep I'm honestly switching to no hook on the end and just a rope with an eyelet that has a softshackle.
 
JeepingNet said:
I've found the FlatLink E to be much more useful if you are recovering other people. If the person being recovered has metal d-rings on their front bumper you need to use flatlink to soft shackle to bumper shackle. Or run your soft shackle through their bumper which often has sharp metal edges. With the expert version, their bumper d-link will fit through the Flatlink E and you can skip the soft shackle.

I might get one for my PW. On my Jeep I'm honestly switching to no hook on the end and just a rope with an eyelet that has a softshackle
Click to expand...

Unless I am misunderstanding this couldn't you just run your hard shackle through their shackle before attaching it to your flatlink? Or carry an extra hard shackle if they don't have any on their bumper? No soft shackle involved
 
The Flatlink E allows you to pass a hard shackle through the device. Hard shackle on hard shackle is often discouraged in certain circles. The one you posted is really ok it is just the E version is only a few more dollars and I think has a huge advantage.

Edit: We've also found that thick diameter soft shackles work better with the E version as well since they don't always fit in the non-e version.

Their video covers it pretty good:
 
Last edited:
Gotcha I didn't realize hard shackle to hard shackle was discouraged.
 
I have the ProLink, hides the line without having to buy an additional piece.

If you have Amazon check their warehouse and outlet deals. I saved a ton getting mine from there.
 

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I used a flatlink on my jeep for years and regret not keeping it when I sold my jeep.
23F454ED-08B6-41FB-B224-FB1C4950AEDC.jpeg
 
I bought my UltraHook from an Amazon Warehouse deal because the box was chewed up from shipping. Gives me the choice between open or closed system using different types of shackles and what the need is at the time.
b59e0586a53be31a6c05397f9fd9de87.jpg


Sent from my SM-N975U using Tapatalk
 
I had a Flat Splicer (similar to flat link E) for a short while, and have used them on other people rigs…switched to just a soft loop at the end of my rope and at the ends of my extension. Less hardware is lighter, simpler, and less likely to have fitment issues…I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had issues with shackles not fitting (or only fitting the pin) on thimbles, pulleys, etc; so the simplicity and large eye of a soft eye/loop makes things easier.
 
Aykillah said:
I have the ProLink, hides the line without having to buy an additional piece.

If you have Amazon check their warehouse and outlet deals. I saved a ton getting mine from there.
Click to expand...

Wobly said:
I bought my UltraHook from an Amazon Warehouse deal because the box was chewed up from shipping. Gives me the choice between open or closed system using different types of shackles and what the need is at the time.
b59e0586a53be31a6c05397f9fd9de87.jpg


Sent from my SM-N975U using Tapatalk
Click to expand...


We’re these both the standard versions or the XXL versions? Looking at the stock winch lead the loop just appears bigger than what would fit in the attachment slots of the standard size units? No modifications needed to the winch line ends?
 
jetrinka said:
We’re these both the standard versions or the XXL versions? Looking at the stock winch lead the loop just appears bigger than what would fit in the attachment slots of the standard size units? No modifications needed to the winch line ends?
Click to expand...
Nope, no mods. Just remove the pin and slide the winch line in. Replace pin and snap ring.

Sent from my SM-N975U using Tapatalk
 
jetrinka said:
We’re these both the standard versions or the XXL versions? Looking at the stock winch lead the loop just appears bigger than what would fit in the attachment slots of the standard size units? No modifications needed to the winch line ends?
Click to expand...
It’s the standard.
 
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