how to access spare tire
#1
Posted 26 September 2020 - 03:58 PM
#2
Posted 27 September 2020 - 01:12 PM
#3
Posted 27 September 2020 - 05:20 PM
Is the problem the oem lowering rod crank hits the tailgate? I have a 2019 Tundra and I attach a 1/2" deep 12 pt socket that fits the 4 pt end of the lowering rod and attach it to a cordless drill to crank up and down. Maybe the problem is totally something else?? Yes, attaching the hook end of the lowering mechanism is a pain so maybe I should look into enlarging the access hole too!
Edit: My tailgate is off but looking at it now I see how the tailgate interferes with the access hole.
Edited by Ronin, 27 September 2020 - 09:07 PM.
2019 Tundra 2019 Panther Shell
#4
Posted 27 September 2020 - 05:43 PM
#5
Posted 28 September 2020 - 02:46 AM
Not sure if the Tundra is similar enough to the Tacoma, but if so, a 14 mm ratchet wrench with the fist link of the crank will raise and lower the tire. This of course means crawling under the truck. We carried a "Sonny Takami" creeper - a large piece of cardboard.
2015 Fleet on 2019 Ranger
#6
Posted 29 September 2020 - 10:02 PM
#7
Posted 25 July 2021 - 09:02 PM
Here was my solution on my 2017 Tundra Crewmax:
Remove license plate and there are two notches in the thin metal that the plastic bumper trim and license plate mount attach to. I was able to sneak the tool in there, up an over the spare, and into the actuator to lower the tire, all with the tailgate down. I even notched out one side a little more to make more space for the tool. Works fine with the tailgate down the entire time and is proving to be the solution for my 2017 Crewmax---not sure what troubles other model years may bring. I thought about notching out the factory access hole, but that metal is considerably thicker and the mod would be visible if the tailgate was up. Used a small hacksaw and it took minutes to cut two areas and bend the tab up for access. This mod is janky, but not noticeable until the license plate is removed.
Good luck and happy trails.
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