Restraint System - Seat Belts Retract Slowly
NUMBER: 17-08-04DATE: 11/12/04
APPLICABILITY:
2000~01 MY Legacy and Outback Vehicles
SUBJECT:
Slow Retraction of Seatbelts
INTRODUCTION
If you encounter a customer complaint of the seat belts retracting slowly the following procedure should be performed.
PARTS INFORMATION
Tape Kit; Part # 64699AE000 (Includes one Velcro strip and two pieces of plastic tape).
Caution:
Do not perform this procedure at temperatures below 0°C or 32°F as the tape will not adhere sufficiently. Do not reuse the plastic tape following initial application.
REPAIR PROCEDURES/INFORMATION
1) Pull the seatbelt out approximately 1 foot or 30 cm and place a binder clip (available at office supply stores) on the belt to prevent it from retracting. Place at least two layers of masking tape to the top edge of the lower pillar trim to prevent any scratches from the clip (see Figure 1).
2) Take the Velcro tape and slide it through the belt guide with the rough surface facing the guide (smooth side against the belt) (see Figure 2).
3) Move the Velcro back and forth in a sanding motion to remove any particle build up on the guide. Make sure all residue is removed from the belt guide in order for the tape to adhere securely (see Figure 3).
4) Do not remove the (red and blue) backing of the tape at this time (see Figure 4). Spread the red and blue backing strips and gently begin to release an approximately 2 mm wide strip of backing the length of the clear center tape (see Figure 5). Once this heavier adhesive portion is released, press the backing strip back down, so no adhesive is exposed. Do this for both the red and blue backing strip. This will make final removal of the backing strips much easier.
5) With the clear side of the tape against the seatbelt and the red and blue backing strips spread apart; slide the piece through the guide so that the red and blue backing strips are straddling it. The adhesive on the dear tape should be facing the belt guide (see Figures 6 and 7).
6) When applying the tape make sure there are no creases, waves or bubbles. Apply the tape completely.
Remove the tape backing (red or blue) from one side and adhere the tape to the belt guide. Using your fingers, ensure that the adhesive portion is in full contact with the guide and that no creases, waves or bubbles are present (see Figure 8).
7) Remove the other tape backing (red or blue) and apply it to the belt guide as indicated previously. Again, make sure there are no creases, waves or bubbles (see Figure 9).
8) Remove the binder dip and masking tape that was attached in the first step. Move the belt back and forth as indicated to ensure complete adhesion of the tape. Make sure that the belt moves freely and retracts properly (see Figure 10).
9) Repeat this process with the belt guide on the opposite side.
Note:
If the above procedure does not improve the retraction of the seatbelt, the seatbelt itself may be dirty. If that is the case, the belt should be cleaned using warm water and a neutral detergent. If you should decide to clean the belt prior to performing this procedure, then ensure that the belt and guide are completely dry before attempting any tape installation.
CLAIM REIMBURSEMENT/WARRANTY INFORMATION
For vehicles within the Basic New Car Warranty period, this repair may be claimed using the table.
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