1. Diagnosis:
* Identify the direction of slippage: Does the seat slip forward, backward, or both? This helps pinpoint which motor or track is faulty.
* Check for obvious damage: Inspect the seat tracks (the metal rails the seat sits on) for bends, cracks, or excessive wear. Look for any loose bolts or broken plastic parts.
* Listen for unusual noises: When operating the seat controls, listen for grinding, clicking, or whirring sounds that indicate a motor problem or gear failure.
2. Accessing the Seat Mechanisms:
* Remove the seat: This usually involves disconnecting the seat electrical connectors, unbolting the seat from the floor, and carefully lifting it out. Consult a repair manual (Chilton's or Haynes) specific to your year and model Lincoln Town Car for detailed instructions. This is the most labor-intensive step.
* Inspect the tracks: Once the seat is out, thoroughly inspect the tracks for any damage. Bent tracks need to be straightened (carefully!), while broken ones may require replacement. Clean the tracks and lubricate them with a silicone-based lubricant. Do not use WD-40 or other petroleum-based lubricants.
* Examine the seat motors: Locate the motors responsible for forward/backward and up/down movement. Look for signs of damage (burnt wires, broken components). Testing the motors with a multimeter (if you have one and know how to use it safely) can help determine if they are functioning correctly.
3. Repair Options:
* Track Repair/Replacement: Bent tracks can sometimes be carefully straightened with pliers or a clamp. However, severely damaged tracks will need replacement. These are usually available from salvage yards or online parts suppliers.
* Motor Repair/Replacement: If a motor is faulty, you might attempt repair if you have the expertise (often involving replacing brushes or other internal components). However, replacing the motor is often simpler and more reliable. Again, salvage yards or online suppliers are your best bet for replacement parts.
* Gear Replacement (if applicable): Sometimes, the gear mechanisms that connect the motors to the tracks wear down or break. These are often difficult to source and repair individually.
4. Reassembly:
* Once repairs are complete, carefully reassemble the seat, ensuring all bolts are tightened securely.
* Reconnect the electrical connectors.
* Test the seat functionality before installing it back into the vehicle.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A repair manual is highly recommended. It will provide detailed diagrams and instructions, making the process significantly easier and less prone to error.
* Safety: Always disconnect the battery's negative terminal before working with electrical components.
* Parts Sourcing: Salvage yards and online parts suppliers (like eBay or RockAuto) are good sources for replacement parts. Be sure to specify your exact year and model when ordering.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable working with car mechanics or if the problem seems too complex, it's best to take your car to a qualified mechanic.
This process is labor-intensive and requires some mechanical skills. If you're not comfortable with automotive repair, seeking professional help is the safer and likely more cost-effective option in the long run. The cost of professional repair will vary greatly depending on your location and the extent of the damage.
