Ford patents movable mount to simplify spare tire changes

Ford has filed a patent for a movable spare-tire mount designed to assist drivers in changing flat tires, particularly for vehicles like pickup trucks and SUVs where the spare is stored under the chassis.

The patented mechanism features a mobile frame that can be attached under the vehicle to lower the spare tire to the ground. Using a system of cables, reels, and telescopic sections, the mount can adjust its height to align the wheel with the hub. This design aims to eliminate the need for drivers to crawl under a vehicle or manually lift heavy wheels in difficult roadside conditions.

Key features of the assembly include folding bases for stability and a design that allows the rack to hold the old tire during the process. Additionally, the patent describes an integrated lug wrench built directly into the rack assembly, providing immediate access to necessary tools without searching through a separate jack kit.