I wrote thrm and this is the reply about the winch:
I bought this used 16 years ago. I found the "shift knob" (as it's called) always popped out when put under load. Taking off the upper housing, I found the gear that slides in to engage the lower gears had the outer edge chewed off. Just enough to throw it out when under load. I solved the problem the next ten years by wrapping a flat rubber cargo strap across the shift knob and around the motor. Not pretty, but it never slipped out..... I looked into replacing the gear a year ago. Warn has changed the gears in the upper housing which requires replacing the motor too.... $350.00.. The seal kit is $40.00. Call if your interested. 896-9020 Doug