1996 Ford Windstar Owner's Manual - Page 281

Roadside Emergencies Stowing the spare tire 1. To raise the tire to the stowed position, lay the tire on the ground with the interior side facing up. Install the retainer through the wheel center and slide the tire under the vehicle. Fit the hex-shaped end of the wheel lug wrench over the hex nut in the floor of the cargo area. Turn the wheel lug wrench clockwise until the tire is raised to its original position underneath the vehicle. NOTE: The hex nut ratchets when the tire is raised to the stowed position. It will not allow you to over-tighten. 2. Check for proper seating against the underbody supports and retighten if necessary. RWARNING Check the tire seating position for looseness and make sure the tire is not too far forward to avoid axle contact. RWARNING Make sure spare tires and jacking equipment are stowed and secured in the proper storage location. 279