Seat belt bracket question

[87RangerXLTct]

I had to clean and fix up the seat tracks in my 1993 extended cab. I was wondering if these seat belts are supposed to slide freely along the bracket? The metal underneath the plastic coating is rusted causing the plastic to swell. Is there a way to fix this without getting new seatbelt brackets?!
Thanks

 

[87RangerXLTct]

Think I figured it out. The only thing is the plastic that it slides on is all swollen and won’t go back to original shape. I wonder if I can just buy the plastic sleeve?
Tried to use the one off my 1987 ranger but it’s 3/4” shorter and doesn’t have the slotted bolt hole in the front

 

[SenorNoob]

Yes. It's supposed to slide.

Before I get flamed, I know it's not the right way. But I bolted the seat belts to the side of the seat in my truck and eliminated that whole thing.

 

[87RangerXLTct]

Yes. It's supposed to slide.

Before I get flamed, I know it's not the right way. But I bolted the seat belts to the side of the seat in my truck and eliminated that whole thing.

Well I guess I could do that too, didnt think of that

 

[SenorNoob]

There is a reason Ford built them like that. What it is I have no idea.

Quite likely something an insurance company would look unfavorably up.

 

[87RangerXLTct]

I was able to get it back in shape by soaking it in some hot water for a couple minutes, and clamping it between some blocks. Then I dumped cold water on it to lock in the shape. Got it sliding pretty decent again. Now I just have to clean and paint.
I’m guilty of running to the internet everytime I get in a jam, instead of just thinking it through lol. Hopefully this thread helps someone in the future