Tips.....hummm....unless you're after the exact "original" equipment I's suggest you look into the spare tire mechanism found on a great number of 80's Chevy pickup trucks. It's a simple little ratchet winch mechanism with a cable that allows you to drop the spare to the ground and raise it effortlessly using a little jack handle. Much easier on the body than trying to muscle a spare up and get the bolt mechanism tightened.
Would imagine your friendly "vehicle reclaimation center" would be a great place to look...might even get them to roll an ole pickup on it's side to make unbolting it a bit easier.
Dave
