Tire Jack Compartment Issues

[MrClever]

Hi, I'm obviously new here, and have joined to find out the answer to this really, really troublesome issue. I tried to search the forums, but after too many false positives, decided to simply post and hope for the best.

Okay, the tire jack compartment inside the rear area on the drivers' side of the vehicle (2004 Explorer Sport). I can secure it as you're supposed to by making sure the lid is on properly, turning the two knobs, then going on my way. After maybe 5 miles or so, these knobs loosen, letting the compartment rattle back and forth. After a few miles (or a sharp turn or speed bump or anything really), the whole thing falls off, sliding around the compartment and banging into things.

So I've painted the picture. Any ideas how to fix it? Please help!

 

[MidnightRebel07]

Not sure about your 2004 Ex Sport. I'm guessing you're talking about the cover panel. It has two spring loaded knobs, right? I'm thinking the springs are worn out and not securing the knobs. You'll have better luck posting this question in the 2002-2005 Ex forum. Good luck, hope you solve the problem and get it fixed.

 

[ncranchero]

I'll guess we need to determine exactly what vehicle you have since they didn't produce a 2004 "Sport". The 2 door "Sport" was produced in two body styles, First generation (1991–1994) - Second generation (1995–2003). The "Sport Trac" jack is stored in a compartment on the right side behind the back seat so I will rule out it being a Sport Trac.

Confirm what vehicle you have and we can properly assist you.

 

[MrClever]

I confess to a certain level of embarrassment over this, not knowing my own car. I had to double-check my ownership certificate, as I am aware that I always got the year wrong. I said it was 2004, but it is actually 2003. I didn't think that mattered. As for the type of car, I have always been under the impression that it was an Explorer Sport. It is a 2-door variation off of the Explorer SUV. Beyond that, I don't know what else it could be.
Is there another forum here that can help me? I would have sworn I have a 2-door Explorer, and the variety with two doors was called the Sport.

 

[ncranchero]

Being a 2003 then I'll agree with you having a "Sport". The 2001-2003 Sport models are a combination of vehicles when it comes to the forums here. For the most part they are almost identical to the 2001-2005 Sport Trac except for the obvious rear body difference. When it comes to that rear section they are the same as the 1995-2000 Sports, listed under the regular Explorer topics here. For this issue I'll slide you over to that forum and you'll probably get an answer soon. Confused now .......? LOL !

 

[Dan Whitaker]

Being a 2003 then I'll agree with you having a "Sport". The 2001-2003 Sport models are a combination of vehicles when it comes to the forums here. For the most part they are almost identical to the 2001-2005 Sport Trac except for the obvious rear body difference. When it comes to that rear section they are the same as the 1995-2000 Sports, listed under the regular Explorer topics here. For this issue I'll slide you over to that forum and you'll probably get an answer soon. Confused now .......? LOL !

The taillights are different on the 2001-2003 Sport as well.

 

[MrClever]

Now that we're in the right spot, does anyone know how to fix this problem? Or what I can do to fix it?

 

[MrClever]

Anything? Does anyone have any suggestions, or does no one know what I'm talking about?

 

[colintrax]

Look for anything worn out, honestly though just go to the junk yard and grab a new cover. They'll probably even give it to you for free. My local junk yard usually gives me plastic stuff for free

BTW, pictures can help us help you

 

[MrClever]

Hey, thanks for the idea. Junkyard. I never even considered that. I always thought about junkyards were for engines and stuff.
And I also didn't think about posting a picture, but I don't have a camera to do that with, and my cellphone won't take photos.
Thanks for the idea!
-MJM

 

[Sedition]

Have you got the tyre iron clipped into the compartment lid?

 

[koda2000]

my 2001 does the same thing. i suggest you go to the hardware store a purchase some self stick foam insulation tape. it comes in different widths., stick the tape to the opening or cover (whichever works best). the added pressure when closed should stop the cover from rattling and coming lose.

 

[MrClever]

Sedition: Yes, it is clipped to the inside of the compartment lid.

koda2000: Another good suggestion. I was thinking about something that would create more friction/width to the opening, but had not idea what would work. Thanks for the suggestion.

 

[Torqueranger]

I would rip the old jack and install a normal jack that's alot safer and easier to use ..