I wanted a easier way then climbing in every time so...
Tools: Same as above plus:10mm socket with a small extension, maybe a magnet to hold the top bolt when putting it back in.
Time: under an hour.

Step 1: With the back seats down take the plastic clips out of the yellow circle holding the #1 panel on both sides.
Step 2: Pull panel #1 from under panel #2 on both sides.

Step 3: Take the 3 bolts holding the latch mechanism on both latches. The top one can be a bit problematic, I pushed it out with a screw driver from inside the trunk while holding the 10mm on it. Pull the top bolt completely out.

Step 4: Push in side 1, rotate, and pull out the latch with side 2 coming out first (I think).
I was hoping for some electronics inside the latch so I can hook up a switch to the them but its all empty inside. So I went with a paracord as it was in the trunk already and i know it would work. If I were to do it over I would use something that doesn't stretch like a wire or metal cable. I'm skipping a bit to the end but it wakes like a 1/2 inch pull to open one side and 1 inch pull to open the other as you have to pull all the stretchiness out of the 3-4 foot paracord before it pops the driver side latch.

Step 5: Take of the plastic cover that's over the latch, I broke a few clips while doing it but the clips and cover are just there for looks, and you cant see them unless you takeout the latch.

Step 6: Heat/burn the tip of the cord and twist it into a sharp point while burning your fingers in the process. Push the cord through the hole, and make a knot in the end. I used a double knot and it was a bit large so I moved it and glued it in place so it doesn't rub against anything. If you decide to run the cable all the way to the passenger side as I did, run it before installing the passenger latch. And when installing it make sure the cable is free of the latch. A blob of glue to keep it in place.

Step 7: Reinstall everything, the top latch bolts can be problematic, I used a magnet to keep them in the socket so they don't fall out and go sideways.

Step 8: Pull each string to unlock. Fold seats together as one or you will damage your leather seats. You can drop the strings down the first hole to the right of each latch or run both to the last passenger side hole.

 

Very interesting, thanks. Do you have rear ventilated seats (and optional center armrest)? Looks like it I assume that is what the bulge is for, mine has that as well.

 

Yes vented


Yes vented rear seats with a center armrest. The armrest bracket/hinge is what would do the scratching/ripping of the leather if you lower once seat only.

 

One more reason we have a van for hauling stuff.

 

I agree, I grew up with 1972, then 1981 Dodge Van in the family.

Then a couple minivans of my own, and the best vehicle I ever owned, for its day was this, 2002 Town and Country Limited This is at 12 years old and 120,000 miles.

Now I have this for utility work, not quite minivan like, but pretty dang close with rear row 2 and 3 folded.