While at the Overland Expo I picked up a new Factor 55 ProLink Shackle Mount to replace the Safety Thimble on our Toyota FJ Cruiser. The Factor 55 ProLink is a heavy duty CNC milled aluminum winch line shackle mount for either synthetic or steel winch line. The ProLink attaches to a standard winch line thimble using a titanium alloy shear pin.  The ProLink has been designed by individuals with aerospace engineering experience which they have applied to creating a high strength durable component.

 I view the ProLink as a great alternative to the Safety Thimble that I have been running on my winch line for the last few years. I have found that with the Safety Thimble the winch line is constantly getting chafed due to the weight of the thimble pulling the line down against the fairlead when stowed.

Using the ProLink, the standard thimble is what rides against the fairlead which will keep the line from chafing and prevent a future point of failure. If you are using a winch hook converting to the Proline allows you to utilize a shackle for much better winch line attachment.

Converting to the ProLink is easy if you currently have a standard thimble on your line. All that is required is removal of your existing hook which can be accomplished with a good hacksaw. If you are running a Safety Thimble, such as I was, installation will require cutting the Safety Thimble off and installing a standard thimble. With a fid and little skill the standard thimble can be installed in very little time.

The Prolink also has a great cool factor and looks fantastic installed.