spare tire winch problem

[Mak Ness]

1997 Explorer LX 2WD with 226,000 miles;

Here's a poser!

When I put the jack into the acces hole I can feel it engage the wench. But when I turn it (either direction) nothing happens. The spare stays locked tight against the mount so I can't get it off.

I've tried letting the air out but it doesn't give enough play to access the wench or to get the holder out of the tire rim (the spare barely moves as it's held by the rim).

The only other thing I can think of is to cut the cable, whichwill leave me with a tire on my chest and no way to remount it!

Any suggestions?

 

[Gadget X]

Are you sure that it has gone completely into the "socket" for the lowering mechanism? If so, and it still won't move, you may have no other option than to cut it. Sorry, just don't know of another way. Someone else may chime in with better info!

 

[Anime]

First, check to make sure that the tire retainer part isn't loosening and going down after several counterclockwise turns. The retainer may actually come down and off the spare, but the spare might just be stuck to the frame. It could also be that the retainer is rusted to the steel wheel of the spare, so with the retainer loosened a few turns still, give it some whacks with a hammer and see if it comes loose.

Other than that, I'd suggest getting someone to pull down on the tire/retainer while someone turns the handle counterclockwise. Unless the cable has completely disconnected from the reel that turns it, more force should pull it and the tire down, if gravity and the weight of the tire isn't enough.

If any of these work, make sure to inspect the cable and mechanism, and put some grease on the cable and metal parts to prevent rust and further issues.

 

[Turdle]

In some case the "spoon " end breaks off the rod leaving just a square hole. Inserting the rod and turning feels like you are doing something when in fact you aren't. Check that the rod still has the spoon, or, bent screwdriver end attached.