I have a block and tackle with a home made gambril i've had in a shed for years. ceiling is 14 feet where it is chained. but i don't ever kill anything to put on it.
I like the top posters listed in each thread and pictures there. but my eyes are getting heavy and i must retreat to bed, besides i might type something really stupid while eyes are closed so good night all.
That lever should not be that hard to push down. Hope you didn't mess it up inside. as Rex said, that thing does have a strong spring. let us know if it works since you got the lever down.