Front Safety Belt Buckle

FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLE

Removal and Installation

WARNING:
- All safety belt assemblies including retractors, buckles, belt tension sensor (BTS), if equipped, front seat belt buckle support assemblies (slide bar), if equipped, shoulder belt height adjusters, if equipped, child safety seat tether bracket assemblies, if equipped, and attaching hardware should be inspected after any collision. Ford recommends new safety belt assemblies be installed unless a qualified technician finds the assemblies show no damage and operate correctly. Safety belt assemblies not in use during a collision should also be inspected and new assemblies installed if either damage or incorrect operation is noted.

The Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) feature of the safety belt retractor must be checked by a qualified technician to verify that the ALR feature for a child seat is functioning properly, in addition to other checks for proper safety belt system function. A belt and retractor assembly must be replaced if the safety belt assembly's "automatic locking retractor" feature or any other safety belt function is not operating properly when inspected according to the functional inspection procedures. Failure to replace the belt and retractor assembly could increase the risk of injury in collisions.

- To reduce the risk of personal injury, do not use any memory saver devices.

NOTE:
- If a seat equipped with a supplemental restraint system (SRS) component is being serviced, the SRS must be depowered.
- The air bag warning lamp illuminates when the restraint control module (RCM) fuse is removed and the ignition switch is ON. This is normal operation and does not indicate a SRS fault.
- The SRS must be fully operational and free of faults before releasing the vehicle to the customer.
- Repair is made by installing a new part only. If the new part does not correct the condition, install the original part and carry out the diagnostic procedure again.

1. CAUTION: Use care when handling the seat and track assembly. Dropping the assembly or sitting on a seat not secured in the vehicle may result in damaged components.

Remove the affected seat from the vehicle and depower the system.

2. Disconnect the safety belt buckle electrical connector.
3. Remove the bolt and the safety belt buckle.
- To install, tighten to 40 Nm (30 lb-ft).

4. To install, reverse the removal procedure.
5. Install the affected seat and repower the system.
6. Check the active restraint system for correct operation.