I am answering my own question for the benefit of anyone who finds themself with the same problem. The seat had gone past the mounting at the front and it is no good trying to lift the lever and push the seat back from outside the car because you don't get the adequate force or direction. The only way is to get in the car lift the lever and push back with both feet against the front of the car. This way you get force from the leg muscles (which are stronger than your arms) and the force is distributed in the desired direction. Hope this helps someone-jim
jim hall, August 2008
