I've removed and replaced bucket seat backs in the past but, it's been several years since the last one. The lock assembly usually pops out with firm but not excessive pressure. I have several flat tools to pry out the lock assembly but, the ones on this car don't want to come out. They come part way out but seems like I might break the chrome rim if I pry any harder. Is the lock assembly metal or plastic and is there a secret to getting the hard ones out?
Ray, they are plastic and will break if on the edge if forced. I assume yours are repro, they have a good fit and appearance, and happily snap right in snug. But always they are really tough to get out, I usually don't even attack them unless I have an extra on hand. I typically tape around them with several layers of asking tape, and use a plastic tool or tools to pry them. The "secret", Ray...is to reuse the old clip on the repro (this is why we save old parts even if broken). This is what I've been told, too late for me, too. There's something about the repro spring clip, it's thicker, it doesn't flex as much, the small tabs seem to stick out a bit further. Anywho, it will come out for you, you will have to use force and hope it doesn't break. Look at the pic https://www.ebay.com/itm/115747989772?hash=item1af31e290c:g:iq0AAOSwE1dkI3MQ&amdata=enc:AQAIAAAA0LeaBqFSSCJI+dLJjcpsDsHfGYawRqaN9QcNTB4BBt+cqRasFTXeP8KRAwK1IdVRv8ryi49G/HmfheXWc/6fY3sZo4nKGCGYJyGfD/ufLGy2C0FQqumbKVQJpYUYNhosFkavyafRKf2SQ0uALKH9X3K51KEMOaFSMAaFIURT/oGM4etOW4JuVJG57EmvQIk4Y35WBhNbYY4dmCUulxY6kGZfMQpOJn+TdGBiiUt8NJae7OWpv4Zq52A6I3Gs5Wd7RHTs4ZjzYRHycTTAVroGYAQ=|tkp:Bk9SR4bugtOjYg
What I usually do is get a thin putty knife and slide it under the chrome piece on the side. Then I push the knife in so it pushes against the spring clip inside. That will release it to an extent, then I move to the other side and do the same thing. This makes it loose, then I repeat the same steps as above and take it off. Word of warning, if you try this on the top and bottom and not side to side, it will break them in half. Duane PS, this is what I do to originals, I have never played with any of the repro pieces.
Thanks both of you. I think I remember Duane’s putty knife method. I’ll check back after I get them out. ( hopefully in one piece.)
I recently installed a new set from tpp. The aftermarket retainer clips are junk. Keep the oe clips to use on the reproduction buttons if you go that route
Thanks for that but. I did have to break the lock housings in order to get them out so the two screws could be removed. So, what was the problem with the TPP clips? I can't tell if my housings are original or repro. Can you tell me? I notice that TPP does sell just the housings for 1/2 what the entire assembly sells for so I'll go that way. The buttons, springs, and phillips screws I have are perfect.
Tpp clips wouldn’t stay attached to the button and allow the the seat back to release when I did install it and hold it in place to test it. Once I used the factory oe clip it pressed right in and the seat releases properly I believe there was a thread about the reproductions on here b4 with the same problem of not releasing when installed
