Ford Explorer: Interior Trim and Ornamentation / Removal and Installation - C-Pillar Trim Panel

Removal

NOTE: LH (left hand) shown, RH (right hand) similar.

NOTE: Removal steps in this procedure may contain installation details.

1. Remove the loadspace trim panel.
   Refer to: Loadspace Trim Panel (501-05 Interior Trim and Ornamentation, Removal and Installation).
   Refer to: Loadspace Trim Panel - Police (501-05 Interior Trim and Ornamentation, Removal and Installation).
   

1. Remove the second row seatbelt retractor and pretensioner anchor bolt and position the seatbelt aside.
   Torque: 35 lb.ft (47 Nm)

1. Remove the C-pillar trim panel bolt.
   Torque: 80 lb.in (9 Nm)

1. Release the C-pillar trim panel magnets.
   

1. NOTICE: The C-pillar trim panel must be positioned downward to allow the upper clip to release correctly. Failure to follow this direction may cause damage to the C-pillar trim panel.

   Slide the C-pillar trim panel down, aligning the upper clip to the slot in the sheet metal.
   

1. 
   Remove the C-pillar trim panel.
   
   1. Pull outward on the C-pillar trim panel.
      
   2. Feed the second row seatbelt retractor and pretensioner through the opening in the C-pillar trim panel.
      

Installation

NOTE: During installation, make sure the seatbelt webbing is not twisted and the seatbelts and buckles are accessible to the occupants.

1. To install, reverse the removal procedure.
   

1. Inspect and position the rear door weather strip lip so that it overlaps the top of the C-pillar trim panel.
   

1. Check the seatbelt system for correct operation.
   Refer to: Seatbelt Systems (501-20A Seatbelt Systems, Diagnosis and Testing).