Ford Mercury Villager 1997 Owner's Manual page 261

3. Fit the hex-shaped end of the lug wrench over the hex nut in
the floor of the cargo area. Turn counterclockwise until the
cable extends far enough to lower the spare tire to the ground.
The spare tire in the lowered position
4. Continue to turn the hex nut counterclockwise until the
spare tire retainer can be seen for removal.
5. Remove the retainer from the center of the wheel. It may be
necessary to lift one end of the tire to disengage the
retainer.
Removing the spare tire retainer
Roadside Emergencies
257