Driver's side seat back has problems

[G-Benz]

My 95 SL has a couple of problems, and I think they are related. Although the driver's side seat cushion appears to be in alignment and riding on the seat rails properly, the seat back has a visible lean toward the passenger side. This is also obvious mechanically because the seat bolster is pressed up against the center armrest console (passenger side seat is normal and has the proper clearance).

As a result, the lever that allows you to flip the seat forward is inoperable (as if the cable came off, because there is no tension on the lever). The seat motors make a clattering sound when the cushion is lowered to the max position or the seat back moved to the maximum recline position. Again, the passenger side seat exhibits NONE of these symptons. I think the ocassional seat belt light not turning off (when the seat belt is fastened) is part of this too, so I won't deal with it until I get the other problems fixed.

Since I can't operate the seatback lever, I can't get to the screws that allow seat back access!!! Help!!! Do I have to remove the entire seat to repair it, or is there an easier way to get to the seat components?

[MBenzNL]

Although my drivers’ seat is not leaning towards the left or right at all, I have the other described problems as well.

The motor clatters when lowered in the max position and the backrest does not flip over either. I am planning some serious exterior and interior work on my 300SL in the near future and will take out the complete seat to fix this problem.

Personally I think that the back seat is unlocked by cables inside the seat (my 300CE conv. has a vacuum lock) and I think that one of the cables is broken. If the system is vacuum as well, the solenoid probably is not good anymore (and it will be mounted underneath the seat I presume).

Maybe someone with real SL knowledge can help us out on this..(cable or vacuum locked).

greetingz,

[G-Benz]

I'm impressed that you guys actually have the guts to do conversions on your cars! I'm just glad to have 'em stock and in good running condition!