Obstruct, then deal with, lifting mechanism (5,3,6)
I believe the answer is:
block and tackle
'lifting mechanism' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this definition defines the answer.
'obstruct then deal with' is the wordplay.
'obstruct' becomes 'block' (synonyms).
'then' becomes 'and then' (synonyms).
'deal with' becomes 'tackle' (I've seen this before).
'block'+'and'+'tackle'='BLOCK AND TACKLE'
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for block and tackle that I've seen before include "weightlifter" , "lifting equipment" , "Rugby moves" , "How sportsmen defend" , "Lifting gear" .)