How to Install a Third-Row Seat in an Explorer
by Brock Cooper
With the popularity of SUVs as family vehicles, many car makers began making third-row seats for some models. Many Ford Explorers come equipped with a third-row seat. If your Explorer didn't, then you can install a third-row seat with a little mechanical know-how and some parts ordered from the factory or from a junkyard. It might be a little crowded, but the seat will fit.
Step 1
Open the rear door of the of the Explorer. Remove carpet and insulation until the bare metal is exposed. Examine if there are holes in the SUV for a seat bracket. Measure the distance between the bracket holes in the car seat using the measuring tape. Drill holes in the floor of the SUV corresponding to the measurements, if the bracket holes are not there.
Step 2
Bolt the brackets to the holes in the SUV using the wrench until they are secure. Replace the insulation and the carpeting, covering the brackets. Cut holes in the carpet where the brackets are located, so they are sticking out through the carpet.
Step 3
Pick up the chair and place it into the rear of the SUV. Place the chair over the brackets and adjust until it snaps into place. The seat is complete and secure in the vehicle. You can also remove the seat when not needed, or if you need extra storage space.
References
Things You'll Need
- Measuring Tape
- Drill
- Bolts
- Wrench
- Seat brackets
- Utility Knife
- Seat
Warnings
- You also need to install seat belts for it to be legal to drive with someone in your new third-row seat. The seat should have the connectors for the belts, but over the shoulder seat belts must be attached to the side of the car, separate from the seat.
Writer Bio
Brock Cooper attended Illinois Wesleyan University in Bloomington, Ill. He was a reporter for seven years with a daily in Illinois before branching out into marketing and media relations. He has experience in writing everything from press releases to features on a variety of subjects and forums. His work can be seen in NewsTribune newspaper, Chicago Parent magazine and several websites.
