Abstract: A winch (1), a vehicle including the same and a method of operating associated thereto. The winch (1) is used with a strap (15) for fastening a load onto a transportation vehicle, and comprises a tightening assembly (3) and a gear assembly (5). The tightening assembly (3) comprises a support structure having first and second support flanges (7, 9) and a cross member (11) extending between the flanges (7, 9). The cross member (11) is devised for mounting onto a corresponding side track of the vehicle. The tightening assembly (3) also comprises a tightening reel (13) for receiving a portion of the strap (15) to be tightened about said reel (13), the tightening reel (13) being pivotally mounted onto the first and second support flanges (7,9). The gear assembly (5) is operatively connected to the tightening assembly (3), and comprises a gear (17), a worm (19), and a casing (21). The gear (17) is securely mounted about the tightening reel (13) so as to rotate with said reel (13).

Abstract: Cable guides for keeping the push-pull cable in mesh with a pinion are effectively reinforced by a member connecting the free ends of the cable guides. In particular, even when the cable guides are made of a plastic member, and the push-pull cable drive unit is subjected to high temperature environments, the meshing between the cable and the pinion is ensured. Thus, the present invention provides a stable and reliable operation of the push-pull cable drive unit with a simple and economical arrangement. This arrangement is particulalry useful for automotive sunroofs.