i think the problem was the plastic gears. they are now alloy.
i have had mine for 3 years without issue. much much better than the knucle blocks (swivel)
Ron, the Karma sailing Gods are still waiting for you to be the first boat to round the A mark. It will be then that they will blow up your spinlock on the set. The Karma Gods know to engage you when you need it most.
Seriously, I have blow up two in the last year, and have seen many more fail. Most of the more experienced guys have simply moved away from them, as they have learned from there experiences. The cleat can also unexpectedly lock in a heated dowse, causing the skipper to drop a few F bombs. Some folks love 'em, and they are nice when they are working.