[Nathan Abele]

I took apart the drivers side belt retractor assembly out to lubricate it and clean it, and i cannot get the retractor to work again. I know that there is a spring inside the unit, how can i get it to 'load' up and retract the belt again? Any help is as always, appriciated.

Nathan

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<UL TYPE=SQUARE>
<LI> '68 Malibu El Camino w/327 (now 355) Turbo 350, Factory Options: PB, PS, PW, Cruise Control, A/C, Gauge Package,12 bolt rearend
<LI> Team Chevelle Member #1289
My El Camino at Fuddrucker's 11/10/01
[/list]

 

[DG]

When I took apart the LH retractor on my 70 Chevelle the inner plastic sleeve was broken. I took apart a spare and moved over the inner plastic tube. Make sure there's nothing broken.

You roll the belt (don't forget to run it thru the plastic cover) around the sleve making sure the springs ends are seated (one on the platic tube, the other on the bracket). When you pull on the belt it turns the spring creating tension.

Probably easier to compare to the other side, just don't unbolt it.

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Springfield, Ohio

<UL TYPE=SQUARE>
<LI>name: D.G. & my 70 Malibu
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<LI>TEAM Chevelle Member #0086
<LI>eBay username: dg98adams
<LI>"Failure is not an option. It's bundled with your software"
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[JodySirmans]

Nathan,

Make sure the spring has both of the straight ends unbroken. Put the plastic ends on and insert the springs into the ends. Put the assy in the retractor bracket and through the slot in the belt. Make sure the belt is through the cover as well. Put the nut on the cross bolt but do not tighten it. You should roll up the belt around retractor before putting it in. Now without tightening the nut, turn the head of the bolt and it will start to "windup". Once you feel it start to pull, tighten the nut and pull on the belt to see if you have enough tension to retract it all the way. If not, loosen the nut (keeping everything from moving) and tighten the head some more, then see where you are again.

Caution: Do NOT overtighten... It will break the springs.


Good Luck!



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Jody Sirmans
71 SS454
ACES
JODY'S 71 or Peach State Chevelles