DSherline

I cranked the cable back into the holder without the spare on it and it got tangled up. I finally got it out again but the first foot or so of the cable's chewed up. Before I go and take it apart I was wondering if anyone knows if the cable is replacable or am I going to have to replace the whole unit? Thanks.

oldminer49er

I can't get tire down

847alexc

Ok, here's the story for both of you:

BTW, these cables should be routinely lubricated with white lithium grease to prevent either of these problems from happening

1st) the entire cable unit has to be replaced, though it's not that big a deal. Cable is wound up into the unit and the assembly bolts to the truck, easy and not that expensive. Get one from a junk yard if you can.

2nd) This can be more difficult. I usually would try to pry on the tire it self with a large pry bar while releasing the cable. Often the cable will come out after it's busted loose. Spray some rust penetrant into the mechanism if you can, this often helps. But make sure that there is no spare tire lock holding you up. If all else fails, cut the retainer off the spare holder and replace it as per #1.

tracy

yes it can be torn apart cut and put back together, if your just a little mechanical inclined. the cable winds around a plastic spool. got new cable from home depot along with the cable stops and washer to go under wheel holder