The cable that turns to lower the spare tire on my 2008 ford escape has broken and I do not know how to release the spare tire in order to replace the cable unit. Is there a secondary cable release that will release the tire and if so how do I get at it.

 

If the cable is held by other windings it is probably impossible to get to it. Since you will need to replace the entire winch assy , I would drill a series of holes in the retaining plate on the end of the cable weakening it enough to pull through the hole in the rim. Just be sure to support the wheel to prevent it from coming down on you while working under it , They seem to become extra heavy when they do that.