In addition to pulling the spare tire tay and lubing the hinge and catch as
well as using ANTISIEZE on the bolt,I fashioned a thick nylon washer which is
placed between the bolt washer and the eyelet on the spare tire tray.I found
that with the washer installed it makes loosening the bolt less grinding.
          I actually fashioned my washer out of a old binder cover.Works well.

                                                         VWCREWMAN