Spare Tire Removal Tools

Originally Posted by theduckbutter
I thought I won. but i didnt win. when going to the dealer to get the tool that turns and lowers the spare tire, they quoted me $130. they said its a three piece unit. my chin hit the floor and i suddenly resented owning a toyota.

Thank you for your support.

Rick


OK I initially posted this in another thread (see comment above I replied to) but upon reflection I thought it may need it's own thread, not that it's a huge deal, unless you're stuck somewhere and can't get your spare tire down.

For all of you that will have to replace your spare tire lowering tool thingy here's what I did. And BTW, all of you will replace yours eventually.

I can't recall the socket size (deep socket not regular) cause I'm not at home but a deep socket will fit PERFECTLY (even a little tight) over the piece that actually lowers the tire (the piece with the hook shaped end & the socket doesn't go over the hook). Then add 32" of 3/8" extensions to a ratchet, breaker bar (I use this) or speed handle and BOOM you're there for A TON LESS (about 1/3 of the cost depending on the manufacturer) and you'll have a MUCH better tool. And all of this will fit into the vinyl case that your spare tire lowering tool thingy came in from Toyota. No more cheap extensions made out of pot metal, no more little screws that don't work or hex shaped thingys that "round" out.

 

What am I missing? Why will I eventually have to replace my spare tire lowering tool?

 

+1

 

+ 2

 

This sounds like a good story

 

Because it's beyond cheaply made. I have to take my spare down only a couple of times a year (just to add air to the spare) and the extension ends are rounded off, the little screws to hold the extensions together get stripped out and don't work very well and extensions bend easier than you think.

If you don't think you need to replace yours, don't.

 

+3 or 4 can't tell

 

There's time I won't get back.

 

Here's some irony; it took you more "time" to post than just read.

 

srsly ? my spare tire drop tool is gonna be working now and 15 years from now

I don't get it

my 4runner pole which is the same thing has dropped that spare 22 times, still works like day 1. I just don't get it

 

can't you just flip it over so the valve is accessible. That is what I have have done on all my previous trucks. I have not yet had to air up my spare on the 2013. Also, I carry a compressor so I can just add the air I need when and if I have to use the spare.

 

Valve is prone to damage off road.

 

OP took the time to post without even having the socket size... I guess it couldn't wait. We've all been warned.

Really though, OP, just edit in the socket size and I'm sure someone could potentially benefit from this.

 

Mine's been sitting under there for 9 years. Have to try it tonight when I have it up on the rack for an earl change and let ya know.

 

You should check that spare very carefully. After 9 years its 3 years past (50%) the "replace" age for tires. I know they can last longer (at least they did when they were in the trunk), but now the tire manufacturers recommend replacement after 6 years regardless of use.

 

Thanks for posting this. Posts like this are why I love this site. Same thing happened to me, my Taco has no spare tire tools and I aint gonna pay zee stealership.

 

I agree that HF or garage sales could source the bits needed for this solution.

And it's a good one.

Assuming:

1) your OE tool is MIA or

2) your OE tool is broken and

3) you can't find an OE tool cheap on eBay, CL or your local wrecker

There's nothing wrong with my tool, and I doubt I'll ever break or lose my tool.

And I do have my tire flipped for ease of keeping aired up. But I don't do off roading that puts it at risk either.

 

Bring a 6 pack to a local fabrication shop during lunchtime and you'll have one.

 

-1

OP is spot on. After a few uses the tool sucks. I think newer ones have slightly different design without the hex thumbscrews that suck.