1997 Mercury Villager Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 257

Roadside Emergencies Removing the spare tire retainer Stowing the spare tire 1. To raise the tire to the stowed position, lay the tire on the ground with the inboard side facing up. Install the retainer through the wheel center and slide the tire under the vehicle. Fit the hex-shaped end of the lug wrench over the hex nut in the floor of the cargo area. Turn the lug wrench clockwise until the tire is raised to its original position underneath the vehicle. NOTE: The lug wrench 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 Make sure the spare tire and jacking equipment are stowed and secured in the proper storage location. 259