I have not read the entire thread so maybe this has already been said...

I don't think I have ever met someone on the trail with a WARN winch that didn't work.  I have met several people cursing their other brands saying they would spend the money for a WARN the next time.  It only takes one failure to wish you got the best.  It all depends on how much money you have to spend, how you plan to use it, and how much you are willing to risk to save a few coins.  There are certainly other quality brands that may perform flawlessly, but I think a WARN is a sure bet.

My dad has a Harbor Freight on his Blazer and it worked great the one or two times he has used it, but he wouldn't trust it if it was used every weekend.