Is there a single winch, or does it have two cable spools that can be operated independently? It sounds like the lever that isn't working should be attached to the clutch linkage, so you can shift the power takeoff without grinding gears. How about some pictures? Not all wrecker controls work the same way, unfortunately!
Jerry

"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln
Cringe and wail in fear, Eloi- - - - -we Morlocks are on the hunt!
There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. - Ernest Hemingway
Love your enemies and drive 'em nuts!