Abstract: A support member for supportively holding a spare tire beneath a vehicle includes a platform section having a cutout area formed therein, the cutout area having an upper cutout portion and a lower cutout portion; and an insert which fits engagingly into the cutout area of the support member. The insert includes an upper portion which is dimensioned to fit into the upper cutout portion in the support member, a lower portion which is affixed to the upper portion, the lower portion being of a wider diameter than the upper portion, and one or more structural members for connecting the insert to a cable of a winch assembly. Preferably, the support member includes a seal at the top of the platform section for resisting entry of water therepast. A safety latch assembly for supportively engaging a support member of the above-described type is also disclosed. A release and control apparatus is provided for cooperating with the support member and latch assembly as herein described.