Seat Latch: Description and Operation

The front seat back latch system has the following features:
- The modular front seat back latch mechanism is located on the outboard rear corner of the front seat assembly.
- This mechanism also provides seat back pivot.
- The front seat back latch is used on all bucket seat applications.
- The seat back is folded forward for rear seat entry or exit by pushing the seat back forward.
- The front seat back latch remains unlocked with normal usage. It locks only during vehicle deceleration (emergency stopping or upon impact) or on steep downhill grades.

A manual (override) front seat back latch handle knob is provided only to help unlock the front seat back latch.

The following safety precautions must be observed:
- Proper front seat back latch function in emergency situations requires that the seat back be in its full rearward normal position and against the rearward stops in the front seat back latch assembly.
- The area behind the seat must be kept clear at all times to allow full rearward travel of the seat back.
- Rear seat passengers should not lean on the front seat backs while the vehicle is in motion. The forward force on the seat back from the rear passenger in an emergency situation may prevent proper operation of the inertia front seat back latch mechanism.

NOTE:
- The front seat back latch handle knob is not reusable. If it is removed, it must be replaced with a new front seat back latch handle knob.
- If the front seat back latch is removed for any reason, it must be reinstalled.
- If a front seat back latch assembly or component is non-functional or damaged, the entire front seat back latch assembly must be replaced. Under no circumstances are inertia front seat back latch components to be replaced or serviced as individual components.







Front seat back latch operates as follows:
- To adjust reclining front seat to a tilt position, lift up and hold the lever located on the lower side of the seat. Lean against the seat back to tilt it backward.
- To return the seat back, lift handle and remove body pressure from the seat back. The springs will return the seat to an upright position. When the desired degree of tilt is reached, lock the seat in position by releasing the lever.

The manual front seat back latch recliner system is also modular and does not require adjustments. Do not lubricate the front seat back latch system. Lubricating the mechanism will adversely affect free rotation of the locking arms.