97 Explorer - changing seatbelt, headlight bulbs & keyless entry

Apr 01, 2005 6 Replies

My driver's side seatbelt won't latch anymore, so I thought I'd swap it out with one from the rear seats, that rarely are used. Am I getting into no man's land here?



Also I want to install some of those hi-beam blue headlight bulbs. How do I de-attach the bulbs from the headlights?



Anyone know how to go about getting the lost code for a "replacement" keyless entry on the drivers door?



Thanks everyone!



I've got a '96 explorer. I had to unbolt my seat when I changed my front seat belt buckle a couple of years back. Moving the seat forward just didn't give me enough clearence to reach the bolt.

Your Ford dealership should be able to give you a code for your keyless entry by using your VIN number. My master code is on a credit card sized card that I got when I bought my Explorer. It also has a code for the radio as I recall.

To get to my headlight bulbs, I raise my hood and there are two flaps above the headlights that all access to the bulbs. Just lift the flaps and give the light bulb socket about a 1/4 turn and it should come out.

Now for my rant about another bad Ford design - my driver's side seat belt does not retract fast enough or well enough and I end up slamming my door on the seat belt.

As far as the lock codes go, in the back cargo area look where you keep the jack. Open the compartment and look towards to front, you will see a silver component, on this component you will see the factory lock code.

Searcher1

I think a little silicone spray on the belt may help this.

Actually I believe that it is the spring tension that is weak. I about have to feed the belt to get the spring to wind.

Hello,

I had to replace my front belt buckle about a year ago. IIRC, I think I used a large Craftsman "star" torx type bit(like T40 or 45) that usually clips into a 3/8 drive knuckle. If you pull out the "bit" from the knuckle it's a 1/4 hex that will fit inside a 1/4" ratcheting box wrench and allow you to fit between the console and seat with a little patience. I got my replacement from a salvage yard. Be sure to get the plug harness attached or it will chime the seat belt warning. I'm not sure on the size (35, 40 or 45?) but the type of tool to buy is:

Craftsman T45 Torx Bit Socket or similar

Sears item #00942666000 Mfr. model #42666

Ted DearDeva wrote:

ok, got the end of the seatbelt replacement at a salvage yard and watched the guy take it loose. He had to remove the console...personally I think I can move the seat up far enough in mine to get to it fine.

yes, the seat belt tension in mine does not retract well either....I figure I'm lucky it still works at all!

I forgot to state, that the door keyless entry pad was replaced a few years ago, and I've lost the code....

Thanks everyone, for your help and suggestions! ;)

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