Replacing recalled recliner bolt??

[slowdog]

I have searched but did not find a thread that tells how to perform the replacement of the defective recliner bolt per the Ford 03S04 recall. My X is a 2000 EB and needs to have the bolt replaced.

Is there a tread or can anyone tell me where to look to find out how to replace this bolt and what parts are needed?

Thanks for your help!!

 

[Blee1099]

This thread is for replacing the lever, http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=44941&highlight=recliner+bolt I'm sure it'll help..

 

[slowdog]

Thanks BLEE1099, I did see that one and it should help me, but do you by chance know which bolt or bolts are to be replaced? Also, I read on a thread about a metal sleeve that had to also be replaced. Are you familiar with that?

Thanks!
Slowdog

 

[fedfireguy]

This recliner bolt is a recall. Shouldn't the dealer service and replace it for free??

 

[ajr2000]

My mom's 2000 XLS has the same recall. Why not take it to the dealer and have them do it right? I don't beleive they are charging for this.

 

[slowdog]

Thanks for the responses, the problem is that I do not like our local dealer, everytime we have taken a vehicle there for something minor something else mysteriously breaks a week later. Also, they are one of these dealers who will tell you it will take a few hours and then keep your X torn apart for days. I guess I just do not trust them anymore and the next closest dealer is miles away.

I just figured that this would be an easy fix and for safety reasons I wanted it done. I found a thread on another board that gave me the part numbers and I can order them from CarParts so I may just get them and try.

Thanks!
Slowdog

 

[slpdave]

I replace mine with parts found at The Tractor Supply. it has worked flawlessly ever since on my 2000 EXT.

leaned the seat all the way forward, there are 2 "J" clips that clip into each other that hold the seat cover on, with a little effort and 2 small flathead screwdrivers I was able to release the 2 "J"'s from one another. After doing this once in 20 minutes I can probably do it in like 2 seconds the second time. the "J" clips are plastic so be careful not to break them.

pulled the seat cover up, the bolt is about midway up on the side of the seat, when I pulled the seat cover up the head of the bolt fell out onto the driveway. I took a pair of channel locks and carefully unthreaded the rest of the bolt.

I took both parts of the bolt to The Tractor Supply because they have a large selection of bolts, washers and nuts. I found a stainless bolt that was the same thread pattern and some locking washers that were the same diameter as the thick part of the bolt that goes through and supports the reclining arm. about $3.00 was the total cost with tax.

slid the lock washers onthe bolt, slid the bolt and washers through the reclining arm that supports the back of the seat tightened down with a socket, you will have to play with the nuber of lock washers a bit, mine took 3.

pull the seat cover back down and engage the "J" clips back together and your done.

total time with the trip to the store was 1 hour to complete. the stainless bolt I bought is probably stronger than the bolt they put in from ford and has worked flawlessy ever since. the 3 lock washers can rotate on the bolt and inside the reclining arm so in my opinion that gives a little more movement to reduce friction.

I did this before I realized there was a recall. but after doing it, it was easy and quick and like has been said many time on this site, doing it yourself is fun and cheaper most of the time.

also the hardest part was getting the seat cover back over the foam, don't pull it up more than you have too.

David
2000 XLT 133000 miles and still going strong.

 

[gijoecam]

There are two different bolt that were used in the original assembly. More info here:

http://us.f13.yahoofs.com/bc/43c7188dm403af444/bc/My+Documents/R03S043.pdf?

-Joe