The Chevrolet Express uses a clever setup that maximizes available space to store the van's spare tire. Rather than storing the tire in the cargo area, which would reduce cargo space, Chevrolet stores it underneath the vehicle. Accessing this tire may seem difficult, but it's not. The process is actually simple, thanks to a dual-use tool set included with your Chevrolet Express.
Open the back door of the Express van. Look in the passenger-side rear corner of the cargo area. You'll see the tool set. Turn the wing nut counterclockwise with your hand to detach the tool set. If your Express is the 15-passenger model (most aren't), the tool set is underneath the rear seat.
Remove the lug wrench and the two equal-length rods from the tool set. You'll be leaving behind a thinner rod, the jack and the jack handle.
Connect the two equal-length rods together to make a long rod. The ends have fittings that allow them to connect. Connect either end of your long rod to the small port on the side of the lug wrench. The end result should look like the letter "L."
Locate the hoist shaft hole on the passenger side of the rear bumper. Insert the long rod end of the tool into this hole. You'll grip the lug wrench end of the tool.
Rotate the tool counterclockwise. As you turn, you'll notice that the spare tire begins to lower from underneath the vehicle. It will be visible directly beneath the rear bumper. Continue lowering until the spare tire touches the ground and the cable has enough slack for you to pull it out from underneath the van.
