All -

Does anyone have an idea on how to unjam the spare tire lowering mechanism underneath a 2004 Rodeo? I lowered my tire the other day to do some work underneath then raised it again. So far just fine. When I went to lower it again, however, it would not move. It is nearly impossible to see up under there and the shop manual doesn't show much. Any help would be appreciated.

- Jim

I had this issue a couple times.

I was shaking the tire from underneath, and spraying the WD40 to the upper area of the tire. It helped.

This is common to many vehicles. Lots of crud under there.

Two people help. One turns the lever back and forth to raise/lower it, the other is underneath going "jigglie-jigglie" on the tire.

Or if you're alone and in the middle of nowhere, or if you don't want to get under the vehicle because it's snowy and et, kick the spare while you turn the shaft back and forth.

This is common on Toys too; you'll have to work it like the guys said.

This is a spring/fall maintenance area that I always suggest to go with tuneup and stuff. PB Blaster (NAPA) or Aerokroil are good penetrants. Once you get the mechanism down, flush the area as best you can, or take a parts brush to it. Soak with penetrant of choice, run up and down once or twice without the tire. Swab mechanism with antiseize compound. Clean out tire, check air pressure, make sure the valve stem is where you can reach it any time, and run 'er back up for the next 6 months. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />