I can guarantee (just about) that you'll love it when you use it.
Even if the truck wouldn't start, I would think an electric winch wouldn't go very far without the alternator to recharge the batteries. Although it probably would go reasonable distance...
I've never owned a winch before, either, but I've been around quite a few people with winches, and seen what a pain the electrics can be, especially of your battery and charging system are not in tip top shape.
My dad also was a heavy equipment mechanic and rig mechanic for 30 years, and among others, has some certifications in hydraulics, and he likes it.
The 9k winch I have hasn't let us down yet, I'm glad it hasn't.
We've had that jeep stuck in some very remote places in southeastern utah, and believe me, it would have been a very long walk out.
It always works perfectly.