spare tire seized in the stowed position

Trying to get my spare down. It cranks freely but does nothing. Should I take a torch to it or is there any way to get it down without destroying the winch mechanism

 

Mine did the same thing when I had to use it after it has been sitting up there for 10 years since new. If its not the side of the road where you need it let some air out and it should drop. If you are like me and were on the side of the road I just kicked it a few times with my foot after loosening the winch for it and it came down.

--Dan

 

Hey Dan; Ya I wasn't on the side of the road. Been at least 10 years since I last lowered it. Gonna try ur method. Thanks a lot

 

There is a recall on the spare tire crank mechanisms that I believe is still available. Toyota replaced mine free of charge

 

Dealer replaced mine too this past summer, free of charge.

 

do you guyds know where I can find this info to see if I qualify?

mine is weak as chit and wont tighten it up, it barely holds the tire with like 5 lbs of pressure, you can reach under there and move it around

 

I received a recall notice in the mail. Contact your local dealer.

 

Go to les Schwabb they got mine down for free

 

Contact any dealer with your VIN and they will tell you if its been replaced. If not, they will still honor it. I just checked on mine last week and I need to get it in.