Safely lowering and removing a spare tire from a Dodge Ram pickup involves locating the proper lowering mechanism, using the correct tool, and lowering the tire to the ground. The exact steps vary by model year, but the general process is the same: secure the vehicle, access the lowering device, lower the spare, and detach it from the carrier.
The question of how to remove the spare tire on a Dodge truck depends on the model and year. Dodge Ram pickups place the spare in a few common locations, including beneath the rear of the vehicle, in a bed-mounted carrier, or, on some newer models, in-bed storage with a hoist. Tools and access points are typically stored with the vehicle’s tools. Always consult your owner’s manual for the precise procedure and required tool for your exact truck configuration.
Understanding your spare tire setup
Different Dodge Ram generations use slightly different spare-carrier designs. Most modern Rams mount the spare under the rear of the truck on a cradle that’s lowered by a hand crank or a small electric/winch device. On some models, the tool kit or a built-in access point behind the bumper or in the bed provides the lowering crank or power switch. In-bed spares and some heavy-duty configurations use a similar principle but with a differently located access point. Knowing where your truck stores the lowering tool is essential before you begin.
Step-by-step removal guide
Follow these steps to safely lower and remove a spare tire from a Dodge Ram. If your model differs, skip to the model-specific notes below.
- Park on level ground, set the parking brake, and place wheel chocks on the opposite wheels.
- Locate the spare-tire lowering mechanism. This is usually behind a removable cover near the rear bumper or in the bed, and it may be a hand crank or a small winch with a switch.
- Retrieve the lowering tool. This could be a crank handle stored with the tool kit, or a switch/remote for a power winch located in the cargo area or under the bed.
- Access the lowering point. If there is a protective cover or plate, remove it to expose the crank spindle or winch.
- Lower the spare tire gradually. Turn the crank counterclockwise (or use the power switch) to unwind the cable slowly until the spare rests on the ground. Do not let it drop freely.
- Detach the spare from its carrier. Depending on the design, you may need to unhook a strap or disconnect the spare from the cable once it’s on the ground.
- Move the spare tire away from the vehicle and set it on the ground in a safe area. Keep the spare clear of the suspension and exhaust until you’re ready to install a replacement or mount a new tire.
Concluding note: After the spare is on the ground and detached from the carrier, you can inspect or replace the tire as needed and prepare for installation of a new tire on the vehicle. If you’re reinstalling the spare, reverse the steps and ensure the wheel is securely reattached to the carrier and the lug nuts are torqued to the manufacturer’s specification after mounting on the hub.
Model-specific variations
Ram 1500 (various generations)
In many Ram 1500s, the spare is mounted beneath the rear of the frame and lowered with a hand crank or electric winch. The lowering tool is typically stored in the tool kit in the cargo area or in a pocket behind the tailgate. If your truck uses a power-winch system, there is usually a switch or remote in the cargo area. Always check for a protective cover or access plate that conceals the lowering point.
Ram 2500/3500 (heavy-duty trucks)
Heavy-duty Rams often use similar cradle-and-cable systems but are designed to handle greater weight. The procedure is the same in principle—locate the lowering mechanism, use the correct tool, and lower the spare slowly—yet you may encounter heavier tires and rims. Use proper lifting technique and seek assistance if needed for safety.
In-bed and alternative spare configurations
Some model years offer in-bed spares or alternative carriers. In these cases, the access point and tools may be located in a toolbox, under a bed cover, or behind a protective panel. If your truck uses an in-bed spare, follow the manual’s guidance to remove the cover, access the hoist, and lower the tire carefully. When in doubt, consult the owner’s manual or a dealer for model-specific instructions.
Safety tips and maintenance
Always prioritize safety when dealing with a spare tire. Do not rely on a jack alone to hold the vehicle, and use wheel chocks to prevent rolling. Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges and cables. Inspect the spare and carrier for wear, damage, or corrosion before reinstalling. After lowering and removing the spare, verify that the cable or strap is retracted properly when you reassemble the carrier and ensure lug nuts and the spare are ready for installation if you’re performing a tire swap on the vehicle.
Summary
Removing a spare tire from a Dodge Ram involves locating the appropriate lowering mechanism, using the proper tool, and carefully lowering the spare to the ground before detaching it from its carrier. Procedures vary by model year and bed configuration, so always consult the owner's manual for your exact truck. With the right preparation and safety precautions, you can remove the spare efficiently and proceed with tire replacement or maintenance as needed.