Thanks for your question!
While it is possible to run two separate wire ropes onto the winch reel, you cannot guarantee that both ropes will move at the same rate. As the reel fills with rope, the two ropes will not change layers at exactly the same time, so one rope will pull faster than the other because of the larger diameter it is winding around. If it is essential that both ropes pull at the same rate, we recommend making a yoke where two ropes pulling the load are joined to one rope which winds onto the winch drum.
The brake on this winch is a simple mechanism, but quite complicated to explain. Cranking the winch handle clockwise with a load on the winch tightens the brake to the extent needed to securely hold the load in place. Cranking counter clockwise loosens the brake enough to allow the load to pay out at the same rate you crank. When cranking stops the load stops and is held in place. This winch must have a load on it to function.
Finally, this winch's brake is fully automatic. It never needs adjustment and normally lasts the entire life of the winch with only minimal wear. The need for replacement brake parts is extremely rare.