Ford Explorer: Third Row Seats / Removal and Installation - Third Row Seat Backrest

Special Tool(s) / General Equipment

Removal

  WARNING: The following procedure describes critical repair steps required for correct seat component installation. Follow all notes and steps carefully. Do not place any objects between the seat components and the body of the vehicle, nor any objects within a joint internal to the seat structure. Failure to follow step instructions may result in incorrect operation of the seat components and increases the risk of serious personal injury.

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

1. Remove the third row seat cushion.
   Refer to: Third Row Seat Cushion (501-10C Third Row Seats, Removal and Installation).
   

1. Remove the luggage compartment floor covering.
   

1. 
   Remove the luggage compartment storage bin.
   
   1. If equipped.
      Remove the luggage compartment storage bin dividers.
      
   2. Remove the luggage compartment storage bin.
      

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

   NOTE: Third row seats removed for clarity.

   NOTE: Pin-type retainers are located in the rear bin floor of the loadspace armrest trim panel.

   Release the clips and pin-type retainers and remove the loadspace armrest trim panels.
   Use the General Equipment: Interior Trim Remover

1. Disconnect the third row seat backrest electrical connector.
   

1. Remove the third row seat backrest RH bolts and position aside the seatbelt.
   Torque: 41 lb.ft (55 Nm)

1. Remove the third row seat backrest LH bolts and position aside the seatbelt.
   Torque: 41 lb.ft (55 Nm)

1. Remove the third row seat backrest.
   

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