[TowerTalk] Tri-Ex winch problem

[DAVE WRIGHT]

Greetings, 

I'm having a problem w/my winch on my Tri-Ex LM-354 tower. The stock hand-winch is "stuck" & will not move "downward." 
Apparently the friction clutch has stuck as it has not been moved much over the last several years. It does move UP just fine. But when I try to go down, it refuses to move; even when great strength is applied. 
I've only managed to get it to move an inch or two after several tries. I fear if I try too hard it may suddenly just come totally "free" & the tower will "fall" all the way to the nested position, likey damaging the tower. 
Should I continue to try to "force-it" down & take the chance of it falling? Or should I try to "lever" or "jack"  it past the "hard-spot?" 
I likely will replace it after this problem is solved. No sense taking more chances. I really appreciate any suggestions you may have. BTW, Tashijan Tower has the part listed on their price/part listing as below:

| K1550 Fulton Winch  | 041-0335  | 20 | $165.00 |



Thank you, 
Dave K6JOX