winch question

I wouldn't think so.

A winch only weighs around 15-20 kilos. So its just a bit of extra weight. You could carry that weight in the back in two or three slabs of beer and you wouldn't notice any difference.

I'd agree with Willem, a marginal increase in weight, no more than driving around with full tanks compared to half full. Even less weight if you use plasma rope instead of steel.

Winch + winch Bar + heavy duty supsension to handle the extra weight up front. Yeah, the weight does become an issue. I know a number of guys with winches, which have never been used. If you're going to get into heavy duty four wheelin' the cost is justifiable, but most winches are just a peice of expensive 4WD jewellery. It depends entirely where you intend to go.

Red you would notice the heavy steering & lower front end far more than any change in fuel consumption.
Cheers Craig..........