C2 seat track repair 66

[Randy S.]

Distinguished Panel,

I read in the archives that you could replace the springs in the seat tracks to minimize the "rocking chair" effect.

I just removed one seat and I cannot figure out how to disassemble the track. It is a tube within a tube design but the outer tube is sealed at both ends.

Any tips would be appreciated

Randy

[Joe C.]

Re: C2 seat track repair 66

You'll find a tab that is a stop for track travel. Bend that tab to clear the mating track. When completed, bend the tab to original shape.

joe

[Joe C.]

Re: C2 seat track repair 66

You'll find a tab that is a stop for track travel. Bend that tab to clear the mating track. When completed, bend the tab to original shape.

joe

[Randy S.]

Re: C2 seat track repair 66

Joe,

I just took another look. BTW my seats are upholstered so I am not working with just a steel frame.

At the rear of the track I now see a corner bracket attached with one screw to each side . It acts like the track stop you mention. I do not see any tabs that could be bent.

It doesn't look like this would be removablw without partially removing the upholstery. Is this the only way?
Also I am wondering about the 1/4" diameter springs that are supposed to take up the slack in the track. My outer tube looks to be 1 1/4" diameter so I cannot guess where the sptings go.

Thanks for your response

Randy

[Ian S.]

Re: C2 seat track repair 66

Hi Randy,

We just did this about two weeks ago to my '66. Remove a few of the clips in each corner that hold the seat covers and fold the corners of the covers down. Remove the bracket with the two screws and the tubes should slide out. You will see two metal U shaped pieces that the springs fit into on the inner tube when you remove it.

Ian

[Randy S.]

Re: C2 seat track repair 66

Hi Ian,

Been there done that huh!!!!
Thanks for the tip. Did replacing the springs eliminate the "rocking chair" effect.

Randy

[Ian S.]

Re: C2 seat track repair 66

Hi Randy,

I used larger springs based on another members experience, Century Spring Corp., part # C157, 1/4"OD x3 1/4" long x .025 wire. The original springs were .021 X 2" long so just cut the new ones to fit. I think over time the outer tubes expand and the larger springs solve the problem. You might have to open up the slot in the bushings a bit to fit the larger springs. Make sure you use enough grease. This solved my seat problems and they are like new with no more rocking. I got the springs at Lowe's.

[Randy S.]

Re: C2 seat track repair 66

Hi Ian

Couldn't get the Century spring referenced ii the archives and your post. Lowes apparently changed to a Taiwan vendor but I did get some 1/4" dia. by .025 x 3" springs. I trimmed the springs to a 2" length but had great difficulty getting them so stay in the collar groove before entering the tube. Damaged about 4 springs just tring to do 1 seat. The more grease I used the more the spring would slip from the collar.

I noticed the spring would almost snap into the groove. Did you enlarge the slot slightly on the collar to get the springs to seat better?

Randy

[Ian S.]

Re: C2 seat track repair 66

Hi Randy,

Yes the slot has to be opened up slightly. It's also easier to install with a helper.

Good luck,

Ian