Yah I know...its a stupid question for my first post

My brother has a 99 Silverado 1500 and we are changing the tire..We are having all sorts of problems trying to get this spare out of the mount. the picture on the wrench is worthless and he doesnt have his manual.. does anyone have any kind of suggestions on how to go about this...I know its a dumb question, sorry... thanks in advance to anyone who can help

It isn't any more complicated than sticking the shaft found behind your seats into the hole next to the license plate and cranking it down?

well it said something about counterclockwise makes it come down but we keep trying that but it doesnt feel like its locked in down there and it isnt budging

you should have two long rods that connect together. One of them has a square box end. Take the square box end and shove it in the pipe through the bumper next to the License Plate. Once you make it to the end then just start winding. I believe Counterclockwise is down.

Any other questions let me know....

You need to have both rods connected. Just one isn't long enough.

ok thanks we will try that..The diagram looked like the end was shaped like a tongue and we tried puttin the rods together with the square end at the tip but it seemed like it wouldnt be put together right, like it wasnt locking into place

Sometimes the hole on the bumper next to the license plate doesn't line up perfectly with the bolt that the rods are supposed to engage. I've had to get under the truck with a flashlight and one rod. Engage the bolt with the end of the rod, then bring the other rod through the bumper and connect them. Then climb out and crank away. Be sure to leave the rod engaged if you want to put the bad tire back there or you will have to climb back under! I know it sounds involved, but if the hole doesn't line up, it's just about the only way to get it.

GM sent me a flexible "rod" to alleviate this misalignment. If I remember, a notice was sent out and you had to determine if you needed this flexible rod or not. Works perfectly........ too bad other fixes aren't as easy.

2001 Silverado 1500.