Hi my new toy a 1997 Explorer, Eddie Bauer edtion has a little problem, the handle to recline the drivers seat is broben off. I have no idea how they broke it but they did. I called a Ford dealer and they want $42 for labor and they say I have to buy the whole latch assy for $165. Can anyone tell me whaere I can get one cheaper and if they know how hard it will be to replace?

Thanks,
James

 

Hey,
My 98 ex spt has the same problem. Its caused by our big ol #@*'s. The sides of the seats actully put pressure on em every time you sit down. Nothing that I've found works on that type of metal. JB weld will fix a cracked block but won't even stick to that stuff.(must be teflon coated) . Let us know if you find a cheap assembly.

 

I pulled the seat out and took it to a local auto shop and welded it back on for me. totol cost $20.00. Better than ordering a new part. It now feels stronger than before.

Mr XLT

 

You should be able to buy the seat tilt mechanism from www.fordpartsnetwork for a lot less. I remember prices around $75. It can be replaced yourself if you have an ordinary set of tools and a couple of hours to mess with it. Ford redesigned the lever to make it more robust to prevent it from bending. The correct part number is at the bottom:

"Front Seat Back - Recliner Lever Bent

Article No.

98-25-15

INTERIOR-SEAT-FRONT SEAT BACK LEVER

BENT-VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SPORT SEATS

BUILT THROUGH 31111999

LIGHT TRUCK:

1997-99 EXPLORER, MOUNTAINEER


ISSUE

The front seat back recliner lever may become bent on Sport seats. This condition generally occurs when the customer puts weight on the lever upon entering/exiting the vehicle.

ACTION

Replace the seat back lever with a more robust lever design that has an added rib and flange to reduce the possibility of bending. Refer to the appropriate Explorer/Mountaineer Workshop Manual, Section 501-10 for installation details.

PART NUMBER PART NAME

XL2Z-7862649-AA Seat Latch Assembly - LH Sport Seat (2-Door And 4-Door)

XL2Z-7862648-AA Seat Latch Assembly- RH Sport Seat (4-Door)

XL2Z-9862648-AA Seat Latch Assembly - RH Sport Seat (2-Door)

 

The 1997-98 lever design was pathetic. There was too little metal around the pivot point. The revised design is much better. Bought the reclinining lever/spring assembly for about $65 locally after mine broke. You may want to purchase new bolts while you're at it. There is a technical service bulletin (TSB) for this design flaw.