2005 Dodge Dakota Owner Manual - Page 276

276 WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES WARNING! The jack is designed as a tool for changing tires only. The jack should not be used to lift the vehicle for service purposes, unless suitable supports are placed under the vehicle as a safety measure. The vehicle should be jacked on a firm level surface only. Avoid ice or slippery areas. Removing The Spare Tire Remove the spare tire before attempting to jack the truck. Attach the wheel wrench to the jack extension tube. Insert the tube through the access hole in the rear bumper and into the winch mechanism tube. Rotate the wheel wrench handle counterclockwise until the spare tire is on the ground with enough cable slack to allow you to pull it out from under the vehicle. When the spare is clear, tilt the retainer at the end of the cable and pull it through the center of the wheel. Steps for Removing the Spare Tire • Remove the jack from the stowage compartment using the supplied finger assist tool. • Remove the finger assist tool from jack and set aside until jack is stowed. • Assemble the jack tools. • Locate the tire carrier access hole on the rear bumper. • Place assembled jack tool extension rod into the access hole in the direction of the arrow on the bumper trim. • Rotate the tool counterclockwise to release and lower the spare tire to the ground so that it can be pulled from under the vehicle.