1990 245

This is my first "walkthrough" (a pretty short & sad one lol) - so go easy on me lol. I am no match for Art Benstein. Anyway, here it goes.

My backseat release handle has been broken for a good while, and I found the part on IPD's website (could have probably purchased it for less from Tasca):

[IMG]http://i46.tinypic.com/316am4o.jpg[/IMG]


[IMG]http://i45.tinypic.com/66gtxw.jpg[/IMG]



I went in to install it, and figured I would document my adventure:

Step 1 - Remove trim. This was the hardest part for me - so hard that I broke it. Aged plastic is not so pliable. When "prying" with a screwdriver - don't actually "pry" - push the screwdriver and twist a bit.

[IMG]http://i46.tinypic.com/f0p9ib.jpg[/IMG]


[IMG]http://i48.tinypic.com/2uo03sh.jpg[/IMG]


Step 2 - Remove the two screws for the handle. WARNING - Don't drop the screws behind the upholstery! I didn't, but it looks like it could be a terrible recovery process without an "extendo-matic magnetic rod".

[IMG]http://i47.tinypic.com/3581cgi.jpg[/IMG]


[IMG]http://i45.tinypic.com/2wgg2dx.jpg[/IMG]


Don't drop it in here:
[IMG]http://i45.tinypic.com/2wn49s4.jpg[/IMG]


Step 3 - Pull the handle out. Disconnect the cable loop, and two side clips (white plastic). I found it easiest to push the unit in, push it to the left and pop out the right clip (flathead screwdriver), then do the same for the left clip. Look at the new handle to see how the clips hold on the plastic nipples - seeing what you are fiddling with expedites the fiddling.

[IMG]http://i47.tinypic.com/ezfl2p.jpg[/IMG]


Step 4 - Now, push the whole handle downward and pop the top out of the hole first (seemed to work best). Continue pushing downward while you pull on the top - it will come out pretty smoothly.

[IMG]http://i45.tinypic.com/fa6l9h.jpg[/IMG]


Step 5 - Install is reverse of removal. Aligning the handle into all three objects (cable, left clip, right clip) requires much patience. The whole unit inside the seat (cable and clips) can be easily moved up and down as well - so use this to your advantage. I managed to clip all three onto the new unit before pushing the bottom of the unit into the hole.

After you get the three on and put the handle in, the rest is cake!

[IMG]http://i48.tinypic.com/359imtx.jpg[/IMG]


I realize this is MUCH easier said than done, but it REALLY isn't half bad. Post your successes/failures!


Enjoy,

Mike