Replacing Seats on my 79

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Jul 5, 2009 | 11:14 AM

pbbergs

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From: Minnesota

Replacing Seats on my 79

I just put in an order for a new set of seats, it was the spendier option so the foam, etc... has been completed for me. To be honest though I'm not sure what I am getting or what it is going to take to replace what I have in my Vette now.

Has anyone purchased the completed seat set? What actually is shipped? I heard it is a real easy task to replace when ordered this way.

I'm looking for some instructions on how to replace the seats once they arrive, but maybe the will have complete details (I hope so).

Any and all info others have had in this replacement process would be great for feedback.

Most everything in the inside is in great shape, new carpeting, new armrests, new radio, new clock, all bulbs work, new shift ball, etc... I'm hoping this will do the trick.

The old seats are still in decent shape and wonder if there is any aftermarket value ($100.00)? Anyone know? There is a single tear on the passengers side. I just want the interior to look brand new, that is why I am replacing them.

Jul 5, 2009 | 11:32 AM

Duke94

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From: Ann Arbor Michigan

This scan from the AIM shows how the cushions are held to the frame. What you will probable get is basically the seat cushion with the upholstery attached.

Gary

Jul 5, 2009 | 12:32 PM

pbbergs

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From: Minnesota

Upholstery

Ok. That makes sense, that doesn't look to difficult.

Thx

Paul

Jul 5, 2009 | 01:16 PM

78Vette-SA

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From: Newburgh NY

I just did my 81's which are the same thing. I might suggest a long thin blade screwdriver with a slot in it. It helps to sneak behind there and then push the spring over the clip and then pull it back and snap into position.

It takes a little doing but once you get the hang of it its not so bad. Obviously this is after removing the seat bolts and getting them on the ground or bench.

Jul 5, 2009 | 01:37 PM

C3 4ME

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From: Glen Allen, VA

It's not hard to do. Once you get the new ones, take a look at the attachment points on the backs, and you'll get an idea of how to take the old ones, and how they are fastened.

Jul 8, 2009 | 10:38 PM

pbbergs

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From: Minnesota

Finished

Well it took a while at first, the first in particular was especially difficult. The seats seemed to not be well done, with respect to where the staples were. Then the lower half really stumped me, I would still be out there if my wife hadn't come out and (In about 2 minutes) had the seats out. If I wouldn't have been so happy to get them out I would have been upset. I was attempting to push the seat down when all I had to do was lift them out.

Anyways, the only issue I have of concern is the upper wire that hold the seats in seem a bit to close together and I fear one may pop out.

Also the seats are extremely stiff, but maybe after sat in a while they will soften up a bit. I hope I didn't get junk (I paid $850.00) for the pair.

Thx for everyones help

Paul

Jul 8, 2009 | 11:50 PM

jr105

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From: Groton MA

I replaced the seats in my 81 this winter and they are stiff as well, especially the bottom section of the seat back. It's like going from a pair of well worn comfortable shoes to newer ones that need to be broken in. After sitting in them for a few months they are coming around.