[noctaluca]

On my Ericson 35, the winches have welded backing plates that hold the big load durring hoisting and continues to hold the load when the halyard is up and cleated off. Think of it this way. The winch bears the weight durring hoisting and while secured to the cleat. The cleat simply keeps the end secure. To confirm this for yourself think about hoisting the sail. You winch it up then take the trailing end by hand to the cleat. If you can hold it by hand durring this transfer their surly is not too much stress on this cleat. If this still does not convince you then try uncleating it under a load. The winch will take the load and you will be able to still hold on to it by hand. Hope this makes sence.
Bill