Ford 1998 Windstar Owner's Manual page 249

The spare tire in the lowered position
Continue to turn the hex nut counterclockwise until the
4.
spare tire retainer can be seen for removal.
Remove the retainer from the center of the wheel. It may be
5.
necessary to lift one end of the tire to disengage the retainer.
16" wheels only: Lift one end of the tire and separate wheel
retainer from the cable.
Removing the spare tire retainer
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