Seat belt won't pull out

[Das Delfin]

This morning when I got in the car to go to work my seat belt would lock when pulled out half way. If I pulled it out real slow it would finally give and I could buckle up :up:

This evening when I got in the car to drive home it wouldn't extend past 6 inches. No matter how slowly I pulled it just locked pretty much right away.

Seeing as this is a potential problem I was wondering if anyone knew what causes this and how I can fix it without buying a new seat belt. I'm thinking grease something, bend something back, etc. I haven't taken it apart yet because it is balls cold and removal involves lowering my convertible top so any input before I get on it tomorrow afternoon would be helpful

I found this which is great for removal/cleaning etc but I'm really looking for info about what could cause my problem, or just seat belt facts in general. Last time I tried taking apart a seat belt it didn't go so well.. One possibility is it is super freakin cold out!

edit - maybe move this to gen tech? I googled extensively and found next to nothing on it so I wanted to get the most foot traffic possible

[AndrewBird]

There is a ball bearing in a pivoting cup that causes the belt to lock. It might be stuck in the locked position. Once you take the case off the belt it will be obvious.