Yes, these are a planetary gear winch. The gears run on the inside of an inverted gear attache to the drum. You really want these to turn occasionally so best to run them engaged. You don't need to run the rope right out though. Just enough to get the lube through everything. You need to do this particularly after a wet or muddy session.
You don't need it to warm up the gear box section, just get the lube around it. Most of these have (dare I say it) cheap bushes and bearings that don't really like heat. The motors can do with warming occasionally to get rid of any moisture and keep the contacts clean.They are usually a short cycle motor. Not made for lengthy use unless you have a long run motor (motor with a fan). So warm it, don't cook it.
I hope that helps.




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