Abstract: The apparatus is slide mounted on elongated bumper support members between the grill and front bumper of a pickup truck. The apparatus is powered by a hydraulic power take-off unit which is selectively connected through a selector valve assembly to a hydraulic tool circuit, and to a series connected tension control unit and speed control valve which feed hydraulic fluid to and return it from a motor that supports a capstan. The control unit bypasses fluid away from the pump when the hydraulic pressure exceeds a maximum allowable value which corresponds to a maximum allowable pull force on the cable. The control unit includes a valve that can be manually actuated for bypassing hydraulic fluid back to the power take-off unit when the speed control valve is closed and/or it is desired to manually terminate a cable pull. Only when it is desired to pull cable is the capstan extended beyond a fender and connected to a take-up reel, with an idler pulley being raised above the reel.