Lap belt retractor question

[Tom L.]

This spring I replaced the carpet in my '72. Came out nice but I have an issue with the lap belts. They do need a rebuild so they're not operating 100% but since the new carpet is in they won't retract solely on their own, they need to be fed in. Is this a normal thing? Will they eventually "wear in"? Or is it the retractors themselves? Did I overlook something in the carpet install? Thanks in advance!

[Reba W.]

Re: Lap belt retractor question

If the retractors worked before the installation of the carpet, there are two things that come immediately to mind:
1. Is the carpet trimmed under the seat so that retractors and belts mount in the depression?
2. Is the carpet and/or underlay too thick at the guide bar on the outboard of the seat so the belts don't move freely?

[Tom L.]

Re: Lap belt retractor question

Thanks Reba, I started searching the archives after posting and got my answer for the most part. The PO's 5 year old replaced the carpet ., at least that's what it looked like, and the retractors worked. It was my only reference. For now I'll deal. I did look closely at the AIM and saw the cut out noted. Anyone have a pic of what the carpet should look like under the plastic shields? Mostly just preparing for the off season, belts will go out after the season ends. Thanks!