An associated problem: I haven't checked the air in my spare in a LONG time so decided to do it. Got the crank from under the hood (I had read the owner's manual), started cranking down the spare, got it about half down, won't go further. Tried to get it up, began to bind. Crawled under, sprayed the heck out of it with WD40, then finally, after cranking up, then down, then up, etc. got the tire back up snug. I was able to get some air in it. BUT--I still can't get the tire down far enough to release it from the cable. Any tips to get this cable moving?

 

bigoletruk, from what I understand the the winch system is a sealed unit and when they go bad that's it.

You say it goes partially down but not all the way.
You got the air pressure correct and got the tire back up snug.

Two suggestions:
(1) If the spare won't go to the ground, bring the ground to the spare: (i.e. a cinder block turned up on end) I don't know how much travel you actually have, is there anything that would reach?

(2) just invest in a pair of bolt cutters and throw them in the truck and forget about it. You'd have the peace of mind that you could handle a flat in an emergency. Then buy a new winch only if the time came.

Who knows what percentage out there are fouled, many are never operated.

 

Thanks Raoul, good ideas. Stopped by Harbor Freight for a bolt cutter, pitched it behind my seat and am now ready in case of a flat! Hate to butcher Old Blue, but better than being lame out on the trail.

 

Hi guys. I don't have the Spare Tire Key, and the dealer told me "you are in trouble". They can't get a new key for me... Any idea?

Thanks
Leo

 

What year is your truck? Have you tried using your ignition key? thats all it takes in my truck to un lock it. If no luck with that, it doesnt cost you anything to consult a locksmith

 

Good news is that you can get the lock off, Bad news is that it's going to cost you a new nut (or 4).

Go to a tire place (a real place, not Wally World tire centre). They may have a master set of keys or if all else fails; hammer on a socket and use a johnson bar to get it off.

Have you looked in the owners manual packet? There should of been a registration card with a key code. If you have that card, you can order a key from McGuard, or if you have registered, McGuard should be able to pull up your info and get a key to you.

 

He said spare tire key. I have one on my truck that sticks over the end of the spare winch crank, and it allows only me to drop my spare. IE prevent theft of my spare. There should be documentation in your owners manual on how to order a new one. If you cant find any info, ill see what general number i can find in mine for you to call.

And yah the reason its under hood is b.c they make it long enough that you can lift from the rear axle, and not have to crank from under the rear bumper of the truck.
-Patrick