I am recovering my 65 seats. The seat installation kit that I purchased sometime ago does not seem match the original components 100%. Is this normal? Some of the long wires are much longer than the originals plus some of the pull downs seem longer too. I am afraid they won't pull the cover to conform to the correct seat contour. Do I need to modify these are purchase a new set? Is there that much difference in the seat construction of the mid years?
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Re: Seat Cover Installation??
Joe:
The wire must be cut to length. The "pull downs" are of 3 lengths, use your judgement as to where they go. The longer ones are used in areas where the seat cushions (buns) are thicker. Make sure you buy new burlaps, with the wires installed. I don't think that the seats were originally upholstered using the present day metal "pull downs"--my 1965 seats had waxed cord, which was tied between the burlaps and the inner wires. You can make a tool for the installation of the pull downs---THIS IS A MUST. I made mine out of 3/16" round stock. Fashion the tip to look like a crochet needle (ask your wife), and bend the opposite end into a handle. Good luck.
Joe -
Great advice!
Plus, consider replacing the foam while you're doing this job. Nothing 'plumps up' the seat fabric like a fresh/new set of foam pads....Comment
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Re: Great advice!
Joe and Jack thanks for your info! My car is a one owner car that was never restored. The seats did not have any wax cord. I photo documented them prior to and during disassembly as I did with the rest of the resto. I am putting vinyl seats back on to keep it original. The foams that were on the car appear to be in great shape. No deterioration. Should I still purchase new ones? The originals also have burlap impregnated in the the bottom for I guess lateral support. Do the new foams have that extra detail? Thanks again!Comment
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Re: Great advice!
Joe:
Definately replace the foam buns. I would also look at the springs for the bottom cushion (do you know if the previous owner had an eating disorder??).The most important springs for possible replacement, are the drivers' side seat bottom. You will see 2 kinds of springs here, the rear 2 have an additional bend at the ends.
The burlaps should also be replaced. They have wires woven in, which are held by the "pull downs".
I believe that the best place to buy all these items is Al Knoch Interiors, at www.alknoch.com. Al, Dale, and Arturo are all very helpful, and will answer any questions you may have.
JoeComment
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Sorry--There Is No Website!
Al Knoch is located in El Paso, Texas, and can be reached at 1 800 880-8080.Comment
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Re: Sorry--There Is No Website!
Try here:
Been thinking about taking on this job myself. Everyone says to check out the install video.
Good luck!
Dave ZDave ZubererComment
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Re: Sorry--There Is No Website!
I have watched Arturo install 3 complete sets of midyear seats at Bloomington and Carlisle in the past year, and I bought the video. It is really great, runs over 2 hours and goes through the total process. Very worthwhile, I am getting ready to do my 66 Saddle vinyl seats soon....CraigComment
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Re: Seat Cover Installation??
Al Knoch sells an installation video that is essential unless you have someone experienced looking over your shoulder.Comment
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Re: Seat Cover Installation??
Thanks for all the great info!Comment
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