This is my 1st post. I have a 1979 series 3 and the right side front seatbelt retractor is bulky. You get in and start the engine and try to pull out the belt and it won't come out. You can hear it catching on something. You start driving for a couple of seconds and it comes right out. It reels back in fine when you stop. So how do I get to it to repair it? It looks like the trim panel is glued down and I don't want to mess it up prying it off. Any suggestions?

 

It's a safety issue so just replace those items. Try David Boger at Everyday XJ I'm sure he's got a set from perhaps in 86 or 85 newer car that would work really well.

 

if you want to repair the original, contact Andover to see if they can fix it:

Seat Belt Restoration Components And Hardware From Andover Restraints. Call302) 629-8508

 

I deal with everyday xj all the time (they are great). The problem isn't getting it fixed- the problem is getting it out without destroying the trim panel it is behind. Any ideas about that?

 

the panel wasn't "born" there, so it must come out. Do you have the Series 3 Service Manual? If it is glued, you use a putty knife or similar tool from behind to break the bond.

Download it, it is in the HOW TO section.

 

Wow, what a great resource. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction, Jose. Have you actually removed that panel? Any suggestions on what tool to use. A regular 1" steel blade putty knife? I don't want to mar the panel (which I often wind up doing). Thanks again for your help. Jeff

 

Jeff,
you are in luck, the casing is not glued.

you need to pry off the "draught excluder" (the velvety edging around the door opening), on both sides of the "B" post, then it will become obvious how everything else is removed.

attached are condensed instructions from the Service Manual, follow them to the letter. you only need to follow the steps for the LOWER CASING, not the UPPER.

good luck!

 

Got it off; a little lube and the belt retractor is working perfectly. Thank you for your help!