I replaced the release lever with a piece of aluminum angle stock. The stock was cut to about as wide as the recess in the seat back. The depth of the stock is about the same as the recess. One side is flat against the seat back. The other side is horizontal and is where the lever is lifted.
In cross section :

seat back
|
|
|
| ____ lever
| |
| |
| | <---- bolt through to piece that conects the cables
| |
|
|

This repair does require removing the seat cover to get access to the release cables. My main project was removing the cover to clean it. The lever got fixed while I was there.

I think replacement is fairly painless on the later 245's.

As said, get the part from the dealer if you use it often. Like $30, IIRC.

-Ryan
--

Athens, Ohio
1987 245 DL 314k, Dog-mobile
1990 245 DL 134k M47, E-codes, GT Sway Bars, GT Braces, Draco Wheels
1991 745 GL 300k, Regina, 23/21mm Turbo Sway Bars

As creative as I consider myself, this situation was one where I gave up and bought the handle from the dealer after two or three different repairs did not last longer than a few uses.

The design is flawed only in choice of material combination over time.

After replacement, I now push the seat back before I lift the handle.

And be forewarned. Give yourself plenty of time to replace. Figuring out how to replace that handle may be just below a blower motor in terms of PITA scale.

Duane