2012 Dodge Dakota User Guide - Page 104

WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES Removing The Spare Tire • Remove the spare tire before attempting to jack up the truck. Attach the wheel wrench to the jack extension tube. Insert the tube through the access hole between the lower tailgate and the top of the 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. NOTE: Always stow the spare tire with the valve stem facing the ground. • It is recommended that you stow the flat or spare to avoid tangling the loose cable. NOTE: The winch mechanism is designed for use with the jack extension tube only. Use of an air wrench or other power tools is not recommended and can damage the winch. 1 - Wheel Wrench 2 - Spare Tire Preparations 1. Park the vehicle on a firm, level surface. Avoid ice or slippery areas. 2. Turn on the Hazard Warning flasher. 3. Set the parking brake. 4. Place the shift lever into PARK. On four-wheel drive vehicles, shift the transfer case to the 4L position. 5. Turn the ignition OFF. • Block both the front and rear of the wheel diagonally opposite the jacking position. For example, if the right front wheel is being changed, block the left rear wheel. NOTE: Passengers should not remain in the vehicle when the vehicle is being jacked. 102