W124 +2 seatbelts locked

[3ps]

I managed to replace a window regulator today and was pleased with myself so decided to have a go at installing the +2 seats in my W124 300TD.

I have removed all the trim. I have installed the seat base and back and the seat belt receivers.

I am trying to install the belt reels. I can see that they are mounted "inside" the wheel arch. i can line up the bolt and the positioning clip.

But the belt will not reel out. At first I though it had to be in the perfect position to work, but even when bolted in it isn't working.

I got 2 used belts and both are the same. The car came with 1 used belt and it too won't work.

So I assume I have to do something to release them rather than all 3 being broken??????

Thanks for any advice.

 

[Bolide]

The reels are "handed" so they only fit on one side

If you look at the reels they'll have markings like X-0 degrees and Y-320 degrees. Those are the angles the reel has to be mounted at for the belt to withdraw. I always check them before fitting - hold them up in the correct orientation and they'll work. A couple of degrees out and they won't. It'll take you 5 minutes to work out the first one

Make sure you have all the bolts & washers correct for the belts & reels - the washers are essential for the correct load capacity of the bolts

Nick Froome
www.w124.co.uk

 

[3ps]

I saw those markings but haven't gotten them to work. I opened up the cover and could see the ball bearing... took it out and it was still locking. Occassionally I could get it to free up but once I stopped moving it it would lock again.

I had a third belt which worked perfectly so I think I have 2 duds Merc dealers are chargin EUR120+VAT per side which is a bit hard to stomach TBH.

Do you/anyone have an link to a pic of what bolts and washers go where so I can double check please?