Where Is the Spare Tire on a Lance? Access, Removal, and Tire Change Tips

The spare tire for a Lance Camper is usually installed under the truck bed of a Ford F350. Access it by using the crank handle located near the curb-side slide. Crank down to lower the tire. Then, remove the lug nuts to replace the tire. For specific details, refer to the installation process in the manual.

Carefully remove the tire from the winch hook. Ensure that you secure it properly, as failure to do so can lead to it getting stuck or damaged.

When changing the tire, it is essential to have a few tools on hand: a jack, a lug wrench, and safety equipment like gloves. Always park the trailer on a level surface before beginning the change. Loosen the lug nuts first while the tire is still on the ground, then lift the trailer with the jack.

After the tire change is complete, make sure to retighten the lug nuts and store tools and the flat tire safely.

Next, we will discuss essential maintenance tips for your Lance trailer to prevent roadside emergencies.

Where Is the Spare Tire Located on a Lance Model?

The spare tire on a Lance model is typically located underneath the vehicle. You can find it secured under the rear section. To access it, you may need to remove a cover or release a latch. This allows you to lower the tire from its storage position. Make sure to check the specific model for any variations in the location or access process.

How Do I Access the Spare Tire on a Lance?

To access the spare tire on a Lance, locate the storage compartment underneath the vehicle where it is usually stowed, and follow a few steps to safely remove it.

  1. Determine the location: The spare tire is typically found in a compartment beneath the rear of the Lance. Consult your owner’s manual for the specific location relevant to your model.

  2. Prepare tools: Gather the necessary tools such as a lug wrench, a jack, and possibly a tire iron. These tools will assist in safely removing the tire.

  3. Clear the area: Ensure the area around the spare tire is clear of debris or obstacles. This will provide a safe workspace while you access the tire.

  4. Access the compartment: Depending on your Lance model, you may need to release a latch or remove a cover to access the compartment. Follow the mechanism as described in the owner’s manual for guidance.

  5. Remove the tire: Once the compartment is open, carefully detach the spare tire from its mounting bracket or holder. It may require some twisting or pulling depending on the design.

  6. Inspect the spare tire: After removal, check the spare tire for air pressure and overall condition. Ensure it is safe for use.

  7. Install the spare tire: If you need to replace a flat tire, follow standard procedures for installation, which includes elevating the vehicle with the jack, using the lug wrench to remove lug nuts, placing the spare on the wheel hub, and securing it before lowering the vehicle.

Following these steps will help you access and safely remove the spare tire on your Lance for emergency use.

What Essential Tools Will I Need to Access the Spare Tire?

To access the spare tire, you will need specific tools that vary by vehicle type. These tools typically include a jack, a lug wrench, and the vehicle’s owner manual.

  1. Jack
  2. Lug wrench
  3. Owner’s manual
  4. Wheel chocks (optional)
  5. Gloves (optional)

Understanding these essential tools helps to ensure a smooth process when accessing and changing a spare tire. Each tool plays a vital role in tire accessibility and safety.

  1. Jack: A jack is a device used to lift the vehicle off the ground, allowing you to remove and replace a tire. Most vehicles come with a scissor jack or a hydraulic jack designed for specific weight capacities. According to manufacturer guidelines, the jack should be used on level ground to avoid accidents.

  2. Lug Wrench: A lug wrench is a tool used to remove the wheel’s lug nuts. It typically has a cross shape allowing for better leverage. Ensuring that the lug wrench fits the lug nuts is crucial for effective tire changes. Many vehicles provide a standard lug wrench, but a breaker bar can offer additional leverage for stubborn nuts.

  3. Owner’s Manual: The owner’s manual contains specific instructions for tire removal, including the location of the spare tire and how to operate provided tools. According to a 2021 survey by the American Automobile Association (AAA), 40% of drivers were unaware of the location of their spare tire, underscoring the importance of referring to the manual before attempted changes.

  4. Wheel Chocks (optional): Wheel chocks are blocks placed against the tires opposite to the tire being changed. They help prevent the vehicle from rolling. While not always necessary, using wheel chocks is an added safety measure.

  5. Gloves (optional): Wearing gloves can protect your hands from dirt and sharp edges while changing a tire. Although optional, gloves can enhance your grip on tools and prevent accidents during the tire change process.

In summary, accessing a spare tire requires a few key tools. Familiarizing yourself with each tool ensures safety and efficiency during tire changes.

How Do I Safely Remove the Spare Tire from a Lance?

To safely remove the spare tire from a Lance, follow these steps to ensure safety and efficiency: locate the spare tire, gather necessary tools, and carefully remove the tire using the correct technique.

  1. Locate the spare tire: In Lance campers, the spare tire is typically mounted on the exterior, often on the back of the trailer. Ensure you know its exact location before starting the removal process.

  2. Gather necessary tools: You will need a lug wrench to remove the tire from the frame and possibly a ratchet and socket set if bolts secure it. Ensure you also have safety gloves and glasses to protect yourself during the process.

  3. Prepare for removal: Park the Lance on a level surface to prevent any movement during the tire removal. Set the parking brake and use wheel chocks on the opposite tires to provide additional stability.

  4. Loosen the lug nuts: Use the lug wrench to turn the lug nuts counterclockwise. Do this before lifting the trailer, as it is easier to loosen when the tire is on the ground.

  5. Lift the spare tire: If the spare tire is mounted on brackets or requires lifting, ensure you are using the correct lift method or jack to raise the trailer for better access to the tire.

  6. Remove the tire: Once the lug nuts are loosened, you can remove the tire by unscrewing the lug nuts completely. Keep the lug nuts in a safe place for later use, and gently pull the tire away from its mounting if necessary.

  7. Replace with a new tire (if needed): After removing the spare tire, you can mount a new tire if that is the intention. Reverse the process by securing the new tire with lug nuts, tightening them securely.

  8. Store the spare tire properly: If you removed the spare tire for a specific purpose, store it back securely or attend to any maintenance needed.

By following these steps, you can safely and efficiently remove the spare tire from your Lance. Always prioritize safety and make sure to consult the manufacturer’s manual for any specific instructions or warnings related to your model.

What Are the Step-by-Step Instructions for Removing a Spare Tire?

To remove a spare tire, follow a systematic approach that includes gathering the necessary tools, lifting the vehicle, removing the flat tire, and securing the spare tire in place.

  1. Gather tools: Jack, lug wrench, spare tire.
  2. Lift the vehicle: Position the jack under the vehicle and raise it.
  3. Remove the flat tire: Use the lug wrench to loosen and remove lug nuts.
  4. Install the spare tire: Align the spare tire with the wheel hub and secure it.
  5. Lower the vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground.
  6. Tighten lug nuts: Re-torque the lug nuts with the wrench.

While the aforementioned steps provide a clear-cut way to change a tire, opinions vary regarding the necessity of professional assistance. Some believe that changing a tire is a basic skill everyone should learn, while others argue that it is safer to seek help, especially for those unfamiliar with their vehicle’s equipment. Additionally, some perspectives note that certain vehicles come equipped with advanced tire monitoring systems, which can complicate the process.

Removing a Spare Tire involves several key steps that ensure a safe and efficient process.

  1. Gather Tools: Gathering tools before you start is essential. This step ensures that you will not have to fumble for items while working. The basic tools include a jack, a lug wrench, and the spare tire itself. Having your tools ready can save time and reduce frustration.

  2. Lift the Vehicle: Lifting the vehicle is the next step. Ensure the jack is positioned under a secure part of the vehicle frame to avoid accidents. Once the vehicle is lifted high enough, make sure it is stable before proceeding with tire removal. A height of about 6 inches above car clearance is ideal for safe removal.

  3. Remove the Flat Tire: Removing the flat tire requires loosening the lug nuts using the lug wrench. Typically, the nuts are turned counterclockwise to loosen them. Once they are loose, remove the lug nuts and carefully take off the flat tire. Retaining the lug nuts is important because they will be reused to secure the spare tire.

  4. Install the Spare Tire: Installing the spare tire involves aligning it with the wheel hub of the vehicle. Ensure that the holes in the spare tire match the bolts and slide it onto the wheel hub. Once it is properly positioned, hand-tighten the lug nuts to hold the tire in place.

  5. Lower the Vehicle: Lowering the vehicle back to the ground must be done cautiously. Gradually release the jack until the vehicle is stable on the ground again. Avoid lowering the jack abruptly, as this could destabilize the vehicle.

  6. Tighten Lug Nuts: Finally, tightening the lug nuts is crucial. Using the wrench, ensure that each lug nut is securely tightened in a star pattern. This method equalizes pressure across the tire and helps prevent it from loosening when driving.

In conclusion, understanding the step-by-step process of removing a spare tire ensures any driver can address a flat tire situation effectively and with confidence.

How Can I Change a Tire on a Lance Once the Spare Is Removed?

To change a tire on a Lance once the spare is removed, you will need to follow a series of steps to ensure proper installation and secure the replacement tire.

First, locate the spare tire compartment. This is typically found in the back or under a specific panel of the Lance. Alternatively, check the owner’s manual for details on the spare tire’s location.

Next, you will have to install the replacement tire. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Gather Your Tools: Ensure you have all necessary tools including a jack, lug wrench, and tire pressure gauge.

  2. Position the Jack: Place the jack under the vehicle’s designated jacking point. Refer to the owner’s manual for the precise location.

  3. Lift the Vehicle: Pump the jack to lift the vehicle until the tire is off the ground. Ensure the vehicle is stable before proceeding.

  4. Remove the Old Tire: Use the lug wrench to loosen and remove the lug nuts on the flat tire. Keep these nuts safe, as you will need them for the new tire.

  5. Install the Replacement Tire: Align the holes of the new tire with the wheel hub. Place the tire onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts onto the bolts.

  6. Tighten the Lug Nuts: Use the lug wrench to securely fasten the lug nuts. Tighten them in a crisscross pattern for even distribution of pressure.

  7. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground using the jack.

  8. Check Tire Pressure: Utilize a tire pressure gauge to ensure the new tire is inflated to the recommended pressure. Adjust as necessary.

  9. Dispose or Store Old Tire: If the old tire is damaged, dispose of it properly. If it is still usable, store it in a safe location.

Completing these steps ensures a secure and proper tire change on your Lance. Regularly verifying the condition of your tires and maintaining the tools can help facilitate quick changes in the future. Proper tire maintenance and awareness can enhance vehicle safety and performance.

What Safety Precautions Should I Consider During a Tire Change?

The safety precautions you should consider during a tire change include several important steps to ensure your safety and the efficiency of the task.

  1. Choose a safe location for the tire change.
  2. Utilize wheel chocks to prevent rolling.
  3. Engage the parking brake to secure the vehicle.
  4. Use a jack rated for your vehicle’s weight.
  5. Ensure the car is on a stable surface.
  6. Remove hubcaps or wheel covers if necessary.
  7. Wear gloves and safety goggles for protection.
  8. Follow a specific order for loosening and tightening lug nuts.

Considering these standard precautions provides a foundation for a safe tire change experience, but it is essential to understand their significance.

  1. Choosing a Safe Location: Choosing a safe location for a tire change means finding a flat, even surface, away from traffic. Gravel roads or steep inclines may not provide stability and can lead to accidents. It’s best to park on a clear shoulder or parking lot.

  2. Utilizing Wheel Chocks: Utilizing wheel chocks is crucial as they prevent the vehicle from rolling while you change the tire. Positioning these blocks behind the rear tires (for front tire changes) or in front of the front tires (for rear tire changes) adds an additional layer of safety.

  3. Engaging the Parking Brake: Engaging the parking brake keeps the vehicle stationary during the tire change. This step prevents unintentional vehicle movement and allows for more control during the process.

  4. Using a Proper Jack: Using a jack rated for your vehicle’s weight is important because an under-rated jack can fail, causing the car to fall. Always refer to the owner’s manual for the correct specifications.

  5. Ensuring a Stable Surface: Ensuring the car is on a stable surface aids in maintaining balance while using the jack. If the ground is soft or unstable, use boards under the jack or find a more suitable area.

  6. Removing Hubcaps or Wheel Covers: Removing hubcaps or wheel covers, if necessary, is an essential step. Some hubcaps can be difficult to remove without proper tools or techniques, leading to potential damage or accidents.

  7. Wearing Gloves and Safety Goggles: Wearing gloves and safety goggles protects against sharp objects, dirt, and debris. These safety measures minimize the chances of injury during the tire change process.

  8. Following a Specific Order for Lug Nuts: Following a specific order for loosening and tightening lug nuts prevents the wheel from warping and ensures that they are evenly secured. It is typically most effective to work in a crisscross pattern for both loosening and tightening.

By following these detailed precautions during a tire change, you enhance your safety and efficiency, ultimately leading to a more successful and protected experience.

How Should I Store the Spare Tire on a Lance After Use?

To store the spare tire on a Lance after use, ensure it is placed in a clean, dry, and secure location. Proper storage maintains tire integrity and readiness for future use. Generally, tires stored correctly can last up to 6 years without significant degradation.

First, clean the tire before storage. Remove dirt and debris, as these can trap moisture and lead to rot. Store the tire standing upright, if possible, rather than lying flat. This prevents flat spots from developing. If your Lance has a designated enclosure for the spare tire, use it, as it offers protection from sunlight and temperature extremes.

Temperature affects tire storage. Ideal conditions are between 50°F and 70°F (10°C to 21°C). Extreme temperatures may lead to rubber deterioration. For example, exposure to direct sunlight can cause cracking, while freezing temperatures can stiffen the rubber.

Avoid storing the spare tire near chemicals or solvents, including gasoline and oil. These substances can degrade the rubber. If the spare tire is older than 6 years or shows signs of wear, consider having it inspected or replaced even if it appears functional.

In summary, store your spare tire clean, upright, and in a controlled environment to extend its life. Evaluate it regularly for any signs of damage. Proper storage practices can significantly enhance tire lifespan and reliability when needed most.

What Maintenance Tips Are Recommended for the Spare Tire on a Lance?

To maintain the spare tire on a Lance, it is essential to follow some key maintenance tips. Regular care helps ensure its reliability when needed.

Key Maintenance Tips for Spare Tire on a Lance:
1. Check tire pressure monthly.
2. Inspect for visible damage or wear.
3. Clean and protect tire from environmental conditions.
4. Rotate the spare tire every 6 months.
5. Ensure it is securely mounted.
6. Replace the spare tire every 5-6 years.

To better understand the importance of these tips, we can explore each recommendation in detail.

1. Checking Tire Pressure Monthly:
Checking tire pressure monthly ensures it meets the manufacturer’s recommended PSI (pounds per square inch). Under-inflated tires can be dangerous and may lead to blowouts. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends maintaining the correct tire pressure to support optimal handling and fuel efficiency.

2. Inspecting for Visible Damage or Wear:
Inspecting the spare tire for cuts, cracks, or bulges is crucial. Any visible damage can compromise the tire’s integrity. Regular inspections can help identify issues early, preventing failures when the tire is needed. For example, many drivers have avoided accidents by discovering small punctures during routine checks.

3. Cleaning and Protecting Tire from Environmental Conditions:
Tires can accumulate dirt and debris, which may degrade rubber. Cleaning the tire and applying tire protectant can shield it from UV rays and other harmful elements. According to Consumer Reports, keeping tires clean can extend their lifespan and maintain their condition.

4. Rotating the Spare Tire Every 6 Months:
Rotating the spare tire helps to even out wear and maintain its shape. This practice can aid performance and longevity. Relevant studies suggest that rotating tires can prolong their usable life by distributing the stresses they endure.

5. Ensuring it is Securely Mounted:
A spare tire must be securely mounted to prevent it from coming loose while driving. Regularly checking the mounting mechanism ensures reliability. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration emphasizes the importance of proper tire attachment in vehicle safety.

6. Replacing the Spare Tire Every 5-6 Years:
Even if a spare tire looks fine, rubber degrades over time, leading to potential failures. Replacing the spare tire every 5-6 years is a prudent measure to ensure safety. Tire manufacturers often recommend replacing tires aged beyond six years, regardless of tread wear, as the material may become brittle.

Adhering to these maintenance tips will help ensure that your spare tire on a Lance is reliable when you need it most.

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