Spare tire-lowering key

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Nov 12, 2011 | 02:51 PM

Movingsolution

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Junior User

Joined: Jul 2008

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From: Chi-Town

Spare tire-lowering key

Bought my 2008 F-250 used and went to change the spare to realize that they didn't include the key that goes on the end of the tire-iron that allows you to lower the tire. Any way to get a hold of this with out spending the ~$100 on the whole jack assembly?
Thanks - Mark

Nov 12, 2011 | 03:22 PM

dchamberlain

Lead Driver

Joined: Sep 2007

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From: Scio, OR

If you can get your arms up around the spare to the winch, push the plastic guide tube (that guides the jack shaft) out of the way and pull the key end off of the winch. Then the normal jack end of the jack shaft will go in and turn the crank.

Then, at that point, if you really want a key you can go to Ford and they will be able to get you the right one easily. For a 2008, you can go to Ford and they might be able to look the key up for you and sell you one. I don't know how expensive they are, though.

Nov 12, 2011 | 03:27 PM

the beast 1

Cross-Country

Joined: Jun 2011

Posts: 80

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From: South Dakota

I have a 01 and have the same situation. Was told by the dealer either cut the cable that holds it up or get a bar up on the lock and try to knock it off the end. Have not tried it yet.

Nov 12, 2011 | 05:29 PM

spinella

Postmaster

Joined: Mar 2008

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From: LONG ISLAND N.Y.

dont cut the cable its fairly easy to remove the lock. like said in the above post, remove the plastic tube and you can pry out the lock. behind it is a hole that your jack tool fits into.

Nov 12, 2011 | 08:30 PM

A/Ox4

9 ECHO 1

Joined: Aug 2009

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From: Missouri

All you need is a 9/16" socket on extensions. That will grab the lock and lower it just like the key.

Nov 12, 2011 | 09:39 PM

kd0axs

Cargo Master

Joined: Jul 2011

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From: Nowthen, MN

Quote:

Originally Posted by A/Ox4

All you need is a 9/16" socket on extensions. That will grab the lock and lower it just like the key.

I found that solution in a thread in one of the F-150 sections.

I took a 9/16 socket with a long extension and pounded the socket onto the lock. Then you can lower the tire.

Once the tire is down, go underneath and remove the plastic tube that goes from the bumper to the spare tire winch. It just turns about 1/4 turn and then pulls out. Then use a screwdriver and a hammer to pop the spare tire lock out, it's just held in place by a little spring washer. Replace the plastic tube and now you can raise and lower the tire with your jack handle.