ford excursion middle seat elr

[Unregistered]

The middle row, middle seat of my 2006 Ford excursion is an ELR. It does not seem to lock or even tighten unless you suddenly pull it fast and hard. Is there a way to install a Saftey First in that seat? Is there a manual replacement belt? If so where could I get it? (Dealership can not get them.) Do I have to buy a new car?

Annie
Mom to Carter 1yr and Kalvin 2.5yr

[jess71903]

You'll need a belt shortening clip. They look a lot like a locking clip, but you CAN NOT use a locking clip in place of one. Call the dealer and ask for one- they should have them- then find yourself a tech to show you how to use it. It's really not hard, but there aren't many "lay" people familiar with how to use them.

[jess71903]

I just re-read and saw that it's an '06. I was assuming it was a lap belt only, but now I doubt that with a vehicle that new. If it's a lap and shoulder belt, you just need a locking clip, which should come with the seat, or you can pick one up at somwhere like Toys R Us. It may also lock at the latchplate, which would be really easy to work with.

[Maedze]

All belts of that era are required to be ALR belts. Have you seen a technician? While I'm not sure if the belt has a lightweight locking latchplate or if it locks at the retractor, it does lock in some way and you should not need a locking clip.

[LISmama810]

An '06 Ford would likely lock at the retractor. Route the seatbelt through the car seat, then pull the belt ALL the way out SLOWLY (i.e., don't yank). When it reaches the end, let it retract back slowly. You should hear a ratcheting sound and shouldn't be able to pull it out anymore.

If that doesn't work, take the car seat out and just buckle the belt. Pull straight up on the lap portion. If it doesn't slide, the belt locks at the latchplate.

If neither of those work, call the dealership, because you've got a dud belt.

Replacing the belt will be much cheaper than getting a new car. ;)

[wendytthomas]

OP, where are you? I'm in Seattle and I'd be happy to help you out next week.

Wendy

[TXAggieTech]

I have the same vehicle. If you pull it out smoothly all the way it will switch to locked. Ours is finicky and locks elr if jerked.

Hint- if you recline the bench, install the seat & the put the back upright again it is easy to get the seat super tight.

[jess71903]

I feel like an idiot:o. I know all of that. So, this makes me wonder what constitutes a "heavy duty" truck. I know the Excursion is a people-hauler, but it's a big vehicle. Aren't 'work trucks' excluded from having to have locking seat belts (I know the Excursion does, just curious)?

[TXAggieTech]

No worries! The X does not have lower anchors.