Unable to Lower Spare Tire (Install Spare Tire Cross Brace)

Some customers may comment that they are unable to lower the spare tire.

This condition may be caused by spare tire hoist shaft guide tube to crossmember interference.

A spare tire cross brace, P/N 15067122 has been developed to correct this condition. Use the following service procedure to install the cross brace between the spare tire and the crossmember.

1. Remove the storage bag and jacking tools from behind the passenger seat.
2. Open the spare tire lock cover on the bumper and use the ignition key to remove the lock.
3. Raise the vehicle.
4. Completely deflate the spare tire by removing the valve stem core. This will allow the spare tire to be lowered by relieving pressure on the hoist shaft guide tube.
5. Install the spare tire valve stem core.
6. Remove the spare tire.

6.1.	Assemble the wheel wrench and the two jack handle extensions.

6.2.	Insert the hoist end (open end) of the extension through the hole in the rear bumper.

6.3.	Turn the wheel wrench counterclockwise in order to lower the spare tire to the ground.

6.4.	When the tire has been lowered, tilt the retainer at the end of the cable so that the retainer can be pulled up through the wheel opening.




7. Mark the location of the left hole. Center the hole on the spare tire crossmember 260 mm (10.25 in) from the inside of the LH side frame rail.
8. Center punch and drill a hole at the marked location using a 27/64 inch bit.
9. Install the riv-nut by tapping with a hammer until fully seated into the crossmember.

Important: Do not use air tools when installing the bolts. Doing so may cause the riv-nuts to spin in the crossmember, not allowing for proper torque.

10. Loosely install the cross brace using one bolt. The indent on the topside of the cross brace must be located under the spare tire hoist shaft guide tube.
11. Swing the cross brace over to the opposite side and mark the location of the other hole.
12. Center punch and drill a hole at the marked location using a 27/64 inch bit.
13. Install the riv-nut by tapping with a hammer until fully seated into the crossmember.
14. Install the remaining bolt.

Tighten
Tighten both bolts to 25 N·m (18 lb ft).

15. Inflate the spare tire to specification indicated on the certification label.
16. Install the spare tire and raise into position.
17. Install the spare tire lock and close the cover.
18. Install the jacking tools and storage bag back into the vehicle.

Parts are currently available from GMSPO.

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use: