Dutton-Lainson Company (WG2000HEX) Worm Gear Winch with Hex Drive - 2000 lb. Load Capacity

Can i use a strap and hook instead of a cable on this winch, and if so i need the information on where i can order the strap and hook? thank you!

Does this winch have a break? Can i stop cranking a the load and will it stay safely?

Does anyone have tips on how they might attach this temporarily to a tree?

(Referencing the first picture of the product) Can the winch be run with the cable entering from the right hand side?