2002 Seatback does not stay in locked position | Ford Thunderbird club group 1955-2005 T-Bird models

  • We're glad you found us via a search engine! Right now, you can join our club absolutely free and unlock member only features like the site search! This notice only appears once! It only takes 30 seconds to register, and we would love to have you as part of the World's largest Thunderbird Forum/Club! Click here to continue

  • 2002-05 Owners. As of August 2022 there is now an entire suspension kit for sale! Scroll down to the bottom of the first post click here.

2002 Seatback does not stay in locked position

R

Racer27

Click here to upgrade
Reaction score
1
Thunderbird Year
2002
On my wifes new 2002 Thunderbird, base, with no memory seats we discovered that both driver and passanger side seats flop forward. There is no locked upright position. The adjustment handles move up and down, but don't so anything. Any input on how to address this. Willing pull both seats out to address this as it appears removing the lower trim piece with seats in car is a hassle. The rear plastic "Christmas Tree Pin" is out, the front is fighting me. Also removing the electric sliding motor handle may be a challange. I assume that need to be pried out. Any input is appreciated.

Planning on using this video to remove the seat, but once I got them out, not sure what i should do/looking for.

This page contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated. As an eBay Partner, and Amazon Associate I may be compensated if you make a purchase at no cost to you.

 
Took passenger side apart (Both sides don't work), cleaned, lubed, did not address the issue. Nothing seems broken or unattached. I see references to a cable needing to be present, there is no cable present. The second image is an AI image showing cable attachment and routing. Not sure why it would be removed. Is that everyone's interpretation that cable is missing? I'd be willing to also replace the hinge assembly if reasonable cost. Any guidance and input would be appreciated.Copilot_20260801_114955.png
 
Last edited by a moderator:
If you look at page 88 of your owner's manual it states Manual Recline Function (if equipped). I have a 2004 and there is no manual recline function either. I looked at all of the owner's manuals from 2002 to 2005 and the only year that doesn't state if equipped is the 2003 model year.

doug7740
1955 Thunderbird blue

Manual Recline.jpg
 
I have the lever... even if seatback only had one position, it needs to lock in from safety perspective. If anyone knows a source to buy the mechanism, let me know
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top