I imagine it used to be an off the shelf part used by other semi's, trucks or industrial equipment.

Thanks if you can help. The center button depresses and allows the cable to be pushed forward as it controls a plunger rod that detents or locks a small check ball. The outer rotates on very coarse threads and there is a fiber like washer that provides friction.

Exactly like it would be nice even if I had to change my plastic pieces to it.

Have any of you ever seen one like this on anything?