I got a flat yesterday (just a slow leak right now) but when I went to change the tire and removed the five bolts I realize there is a large bolt dead center with some kind of washer and a cotter pin, I freed up the cotter pin and the washer loosened but the wheel is stuck. how do I get the wheel off the axle, without paying someone, I'm not sure how a simple tire change became the headache that it is. but I am very much in need of assistance. any advice would be much appreciated..Thanks!

First step is to put the nut, the locking ring and cotter pin back in! That has nothing to do with the removal of the wheel. If there's someone you can call on to put it back together - do so! If you over (or under) tighten it you will ruin a bearing and possibly have the wheel assembly shear off!

With the lug nuts loosened (but not removed), if the wheel still won't come off, raise the wheel off the ground about an inch and give the wheel/tire a good healthy stomp. It's more than likely just stuck on because of corrosion or rust.

Thanks, I'll give it shot. I appreciate the help (IMG:style_emoticons/default/liebe011.gif)