Review on TEKTON 5541 2 Ton Power Puller by Chase Steele

Like others here, I originally received a defective block. There is a metal bracket that holds the cable reel in place. This part is important to the whole process as there would be a mess if the cable spool was loose and caught in the gears. Operation: YES, it's the other way around! These reviews and questions and answers contain misinformation! Disconnect the locking spring and turn the handle the other way. At the base of the handle is a ridge that pushes a button that releases the tension one gear at a time. Some tension is required to test this, which is what you should do first. Just stand on the free end and pull. Under heavy loads, it can be quite difficult to press the button hard enough to release the tension. Just use more muscle. With that in mind, the instructions on how to use it were good. I had no prior experience. Warning (disadvantage?): A metal bracket that can get caught is NOT REALLY a disadvantage as it is needed to keep the cable spool taut. However, I am very aware that it can get stuck. The risk is greatest when ALL the cable is on the reel and is at its thickest. If the cable is wrapped unevenly around the spool, the bracket may slip toward the gears. It's annoying to worry about, but given the price and the fact that I don't use it that often, I find it acceptable. This is weird: I have no idea what safe strain versus work strain means? If I pull the handle hard, am I applying a 4,000lb working load or a 2,000lb safety load?