Mercury 2002 Cougar Owner's Manual page 80

Seating and Safety Restraints
Reclining the seatback can cause an occupant to slide under the
seat's safety belt, resulting in severe personal injuries in the
event of a collision.
Pull the lever located under the
front edge of the seat to move the
seat forward or backward.
To recline the seat, pull the lever on
the outside of the seat.
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