Main problem is they just collect crud till you need to use it and then it's too late. If it's already screwed cut the cable and replace it , Dorman makes replacements. Slather the new one with heavy grease and once a month crank the tire up and down a few times. If it still works but is crudded up you might be able to soak it and free it up then slather it and reinstall. As for carrying the spare in the bed , they're not just used on pickups so not always an option.
