Spare Tire Key Problem

[wyoguy]

I just bought an '01 F350 dually. I installed a receiver hitch under it this weekend and had to lower the spare to do it. That's when I discovered that the spare tire key doesn't work too well when lowering the tire. I think the bolt head that the key connects to is stripped out. It works much better when raising the tire. I'm guessing it would take me an hour to get my spare all the way down. Maybe more. It will turn for a little bit and then slip out until it catches again, then turn a little more (an inch maybe) and slip out again, etc. . . Anybody know how I can fix this? I really don't have a need for the key where I live (not a lot of stolen spare tires). I'd sure like to replace the key system with something easier and more reliable. Any thoughts?

[EArmsF350]

I just bought the same truck and I can't get the tire down because the previous owners did not leave the key with the truck. My Ford dealership said to cut out the old "keyed" set up and replace it with a standard winch system like the older models. My Dad also has a 2000 but it's a 250 and he does not have a keyed system. So I'm not sure of the answer but I would like to have the system without the key. I'll keep trying to find out more info. and post what I find. I need to talk to Ford tomorrow anyways. Maybe I'll get more info tomorrow.

[benzo]

DO a search we discussed this before,the dealerships here said keys were no longer available, i used a 3/8 drive long extension and a 9/16 or1/2inch socket(oldtimers) and a hammer and rachet,works great...do the search.

[Austinj427]

I had this issue back when I bought my truck.

I pulled apart the winch after I got the tire down and removed the key.

The winch binds up really, really bad though so I am afraid to use the spare.

[Heartbeatracing]

take the spare down, remove the winch. Take the tube off and inside is the other end of the key. Take it off then all you need is the pointed end of the jack handle

[Dutyluvr]

I have had the same issue, removed the key lock. Good to go after that.

[arcticatdan]

I did the same thing. Mine did not have a spare when I got it. All I needed to do was pry off the the key part off with a large screw driver and all is well now. It works just like the old ones without the key.