Having trouble removing the rear seat - anyone else? Any fixes?

[blacklightning]

As the title says, I have a 2016 F3L Special Series and I cannot remove the rear seat in order to check the air pressure in the rear air bag. I never had any issues before, but the last 2 times I tried, I could not get it to remove. I am afraid to turn the key too hard because I don't want to break it. I do have an aftermarket driver's backrest, but I don't think that is causing the problem, but not 100% certain. Anyone else have this issue and is there another way to remove it?

 

[pauly1]

Without photos, it's not possible to state the interference exists with the aftermarket backrest. Further, the condition of the machine from sitting outside, riding in the rain and/or severe road dust, would likely impact function. So, troubleshooting mode:

1. Did the issue of removing the seat arise after the installation of the backrest? If yes, remove backrest and retry.
2. Does the latch release and the rear of the passenger seat lift? If no, the cable release system may need service. Lube cable is a PITA as it's buried under the ignition switch. The latch under the seat may need to be lubed.
3. If you can get it open, inspect the latch (the mechanism on the Spyder that receives the pin from the seat) and catch (the pin attached to the seat). They are usually thread-sealed into place and will not move easily.

Perhaps stating the obvious, and not meaning to talk down at you: All of the latches (gas cap, trunk, side cases, seats) will benefit from regular application of a quality, dry-film lubricant. Road dust and grime will find their way into them and cause usability issues. Riding in a lot of rain and/or dust will accelerate that issue.

Wayne

 

[blacklightning]

Does anyone have a link to how to possibly remove the rear seat when it is stuck? I understand that there are a couple of panels that can possibly be removed to manually unlatch the rear seat. If not, I might have to schedule a service appointment to get it done. I really don't want to pay the $139 hr rate to get this taken care of, but I definilty don't want to break a key trying to do it myself. Any help would be appreciated.