Seat recliner failure

[Fast Doc]

Hello guys, thanks in advance for your help.

1992 Ranger STX Extended Cab 4X4 4.0V6 A4LD 106,000 miles.

The ratchet that reclines the seat on the drivers side is failing, and the passenger side is not far behind.

If I lean back too hard the ratchet slips and the seat reclines. Annoying and unsafe.

How do I fix this? Is there anywhere I can order new ratchets from, or at least a couple used ones that are still strong and effective?

Do I have to remove the seats?

I scanned the technical/repair articles and did not see a post on this issue.

Have a great day,

Bill.

 

[katoranger]

Hey Doc.

 

[Fast Doc]

Hi Kato!

Fancy meeting you here!

I think I will just get around to removing the mechanism and seeing if there is a part number I can order on line or call a wrecker for a replacement.

In the meantime it works but I am sure it would fail in a rear end collision.

 

[simpler=better]

Don't know how to fix it, but for the short term put a box, bucket, blankets, cat food, etc. behind the seat.

If you're worried about forward motion, tie your rear seat belt to the seat to pull it back into the box.

yes, both of those solutions are redneck but will give you the stability you're looking for.

 

[4.0B2]

You just need the pieces on the side... the toothed piece and the clip for it. I got mine from a junkyard for cheap.

The seats do NOT have to come out either.

 

[Fast Doc]

Thanks guys.

I'll dig into next chance I get.