Strange power seat problem

[bigbandwith]

I have a 96 GT convert. The four way power seat was working great yesterday. Today it goes up and down but will only go back and forth an eighth of an inch. Read the forums an most have an issue only with one direction or it doesn't work at all. Anyone have a similar issue or know how to fix this? TIA

 

[wmburns]

Do you hear the motor running when the switch is moved?

If yes, look for something binding or debris (think coins).

If no, think switch.

 

[bigbandwith]

I can't hear the motor running when I get down and look underneath the seat but the motor engages and the worm gear turns a 1/4" either way. Hence the 1/8" movement of the seats. I will check the tracks tomorrow.

 

[281CI96Coupe]

I have this problem with mine and never really did anything with it. I think the switch might be hurt. Mine goes up and down, but not forward and its all the way back.

 

[stangfanatic]

Coins did mine in, someone dropped some change in the track and held the seat switch till it fried. Luckily I was able to open the switch and repair it.

 

[Mel96GT]

I had a very similar problem in my 96 GT. Check your seat tracks, clean and lube them with silicone grease. They are known for wearing out. The flimsy 4-way switch may be bad though; it drained my battery and fried the electric motor. I finally went with a manual seat track off a 93 GT and chucked the factory boat anchor power seat track. The lumbar air cushion still plugged in, I just don't have height adjustment anymore. The manual seat track is so much more simple and reliable.