I have developed a rip in the seam of my front bench seat. (The basic bench, no middle arm rest) It really is more of a splitting of the seam, where it is sewn together. I know it will only continue to get worse. I do not want to replace the material, because the entire interior is original, save the carpets. It does not have to be a perfect repair, but durable. (Black interior will hide some imperfections.) Any suggestions? I am north of Chicago, does anyone know of a quality shop to take it to? Is it fairly easy to remove the bench and take it in? Because of the weather, it is not practical to take the entire car to a shop now, maybe next spring. I would preffer to get it done before then. Any help would be appreciated. Regards, John. o No:
easy to remove the bench seat- four bolts or nuts. if u feel capable, u can also remove the seat cover by cutting the hogrings. find an auto upholstery shop or furniture upholsterer. they can make a good repair. ask where the hotrodders have their seat upholstered.
John, just use another guy to help you as those benches are heavy. One guy should step into the car as the other pulls it out the other direction. Easy to scratch bottom door sill if not careful.
I had a big tear in my driver side bucket seat back rest. They just put in a new "panel" and you can't even tell it was ever touched. This was on my '66 though, so the vinyl was just the usual type grain. I assume you are talking about the weave style vinyl on the bench? It might be tougher to fix. I would think if they pulled the seam together and sewed it, it might look OK if the material doesn't look pulled. Otherwise you might have to sew in a new panel if that material is available. Good luck! Brian
Thanks for the info Gerry, Dave, and Brian. If it is only 4 bolts, It probably would be best to take it out. I will use 2 people. Thanks again. Anyone know of an upholstery place in the Chicago area? Regards, John.
