I like the winch idea too. I could have used it when I got my 4x4 Toyota stuck at American Lake. :p Stay away from the loose stuff and you wont need one, but where's the fun in that?

I absolutley HATE damaging a rod during travel. A case for long or rough trips is a must for good rods. Racks are good enough for most gear.

Cant help you with the "Ford thing", there is no perscription for that, and God drives a Chevy. So praying wont help either cool