Hi folks. Love my 88 pickup but the seat belt retractor just won't retract that last couple feet unless I 'help' it. Or slam the door on the belt. I took the whole rig off, cleaned it and lubed the mechanism (or tried to) with Tri-Flow, and put it all back: NO improvement. Retractor seems to have plenty of spring to it when pulled further out, but won't suck that last few feet (which is all you ever use) back in. Passenger side just as bad. I want it to work RIGHT. Belt isn't frayed. Must I replace the retractors (and therefore the belt too), or is there a trick? Would be grateful for any advice. I searched the threads but came up empty.

 

I've had success on many vehicles by cleaning the seatbelt(dirty few feet).
I operate backcountry tours in Moab and with staff driving my six vehicles, they have sunscreen, red dirt and god knows what else on their hands, so seatbelts get really gnarly!

I use Oxy Clean laundry detergent, the hottest water you can get and soak the belt in the bucket of soapy hot water overnight. Yes the water will cool down and thats fine, the Hot water gets the detergent activated. Then rinse thoroughly and let dry before retracting, or do another session to get deeper soils out. its a cheap and easy way to get noticeable results!
Good luck!

 

I have the same issue, I don’t want to do anything oil/lube related due to it could make it worse if it’s cold. I was thinking maybe some graphite but I don’t know, I don’t want black crap all over my belt. I am also interested on a solution,

My seatbelts are pretty clean so I’m not sure dirt on the belt itself is the issue.

But then I also think it’s 32 years old and nothing will help besides a new whatever makes it retract???

 

Thanks for the ideas. I already cleaned the belts, loops, etc. All nice and slippery -- but it's 36 years old and I'm twice that much. May just have to buy a new unit. Lots of OTHER parts for the truck I'd rather spend the money on.

 

I wonder if they are even available, I have never checked but if they are I’m sure they are covered in Toyota gold as far as price, I’ve just been dealing with limp belts and I think it’s gonna stay that way

 

These guys have replacement seat belts. No real repair other than rewebbing. The 83-88 driver and passenger are $315 and one side for $158. It's on my wish list.

https://www.seatbeltplanet.com/