While I was changing my shocks I noticed that my spare tire needed some air. I removed the tools that were in the spare kit but couldn't figure out how to lower it.

There was a hole above the rear bumper where the lock was supposed to be. I put the 4 rods together and slid in the flattened end in but couldn't get it to catch.

Anyone have any tips on getting to the spare?

Thanks!

 

just keep rotating the rod and it will catch...i only use 2 rods when cranking mine down...more control...try that

 

Take a small penlite flashlight and look to see if something is obstructing the slot where the rod is to fit, I bought a '99 a month ago on which the spare had never been on the ground in all these years, it had a lock in the hole under the tailgate, once I removed it I assembled the four rods together, slid the flat end into place in the mechanism and cranked away. I only had to lower it slightly to allow me to bolt on my receiver hitch without trapping the spare. I figured dirt and road salt would have made it a chore......not so!
If this old thing cooperated yours should, you overlooked something.

 

Isn't it the square part that lowers the tire? I think the flat part is just there to pop your center/hub caps off.

 

nope the flat part lowers the tire

 

My "flat" part.. has a bit of a curve to it.

 

lol okay... mine hasn't been on the truck in forever so I couldn't remember. I just keep my spare in the bed!

 

The flat section does have a little dogleg in it, it seems to help it stay engaged in the mechanism.

 

If that doesn't work just pull down on the tire, it should unwind the cable. Thats how most spares are stolen any how. I hope you have a chain and lock on it.