Driver's rear seat latch

[Chevy16001]

I know this isn't a mod but don't know where else to post. I got a 2021 lariat and almost hit a deer and in hard braking my rear seat flopped forward. I discovered the rear seat won't latch. The latch on the seat itself functions if you push on it with your finger but there is a plastic piece in there that would keep the striker from pushing the mechanism. Also the striker just freely moves up and down on the cab can any of you explain to me what the heck I'm missing?

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[JJSnell]

This little pin here has to move up before it can lock into place. It also is what releases the latch.
There are a few posts including one of my own where you drill a hole in that PIN secure a tiny ring and then an additional zip tie and secure it to one of the posts of the headrest. You can pull that thing up with ease and get into that back seat area with no problem after doing this. It only takes about 5 to 10 minutes to complete the entire ordeal. I have no idea why Ford didn't include an easy release in all of the trucks. It would save all of us a headache.

 

[jasonkosi]

The striker is designed to move up and down, it allows for movement when you flip the seat cushion up. Typically I line the striker up with the bumps first (circled in the photo) before trying to latch the seat. And some you really have to give the backrest a good shove to get them to latch. Don’t try to softly latch it.

 

[Chevy16001]

I've moved the pin on the side and can get the clasp to latch but it's not like spring loaded or anything it seems... I can try slamming it but how do I ensure that it's lined up with the striker before doing so

 

[JohnTrigger]

I bought one of these to access behind the driver’s side rear seat.

Regardless, For the OP, go watch their install video at about the 9:55 min mark to help line up your factory one. Hopefully this will solve your issue.

https://builtrightind.com/products/builtright-industries-ford-f-series-rear-seat-release-kit

 

[HammaMan]

I elbow mine closed. Use the alignment indicators to set the sliding bar. As you lift the seat bottom, the rear begins to rise and come forward slightly and that's when your hand can fit back there.

 

[mwf5888]

How did you get the seat back down to install this?

 

[HammaMan]

How did you get the seat back down to install this?

fold the seat bottom up and reach behind and pull this little tab up to release it. This image is upside down

Everytime I get behind the seat I just use this method. The unlock strap is probably easier, but the factory method isn't difficult.

 

[mwf5888]

I just watched a video where you use a box end wrench to open it. Boy that makes it easy without the strap.

Ford F-Series Rear Seat Release Install Guide - YouTube

I still just bought that latch!

 

[264winmag]

I just watched a video where you use a box end wrench to open it. Boy that makes it easy without the strap.

Ford F-Series Rear Seat Release Install Guide - YouTube

I still just bought that latch!

Made my own.

 

[Chevy16001]

I forgot to report back that I was able to get it to latch by lifting the bottom and slamming the back thanks for the input guys

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