Who has done non stock seats? Mine is fine has been reupholstered but I saw some pics where someone had swapped over to an Escalade third row seat in a 41-46 truck. They look great, probably much more comfortable, and have built in seat belts to include the shoulder harness.
Here are pics of the ones I found on a FB group. Let’s see what non stock seats others have done!
I agree that they look a lot more comfortable! I also like the idea of the integrated shoulder harness and seat belt.
Without doing much research yet, I would suggest that the seat mountings to the cab floor need to be reinforced. Those mounts now have to withstand the forces that could be applied through the seat belts and shoulder harness in event of an accident.
All of the aftermarket seat belt suppliers include reinforcing plates with their seat belt mounting kits. Their concern is that the floor by itself will not handle the extra loading from the seat belt.
I agree the mounts would have to be stronger. My plan is to move the gas tank and use that area under the seat as tool storage and have the seat flip somehow to get to stuff but flip down and lock into place for driving. I also love the idea of the integrated shoulder harness. People want 350-400 for those seats on eBay but my local craigslist shows several for 150 range.
Hey guys. I've got a 37 ton and a half flatbed I'm restoring. The truck is in great shape, except (of all things) the split bench seats and back. The springs have rusted out. The rest of the truck is pretty solid. Is it possible to buy stock seats, or reproductions? I'd like to keep it original if I can. Thanks
Here is a post with a reply and images of one members Buick LeSabre seats. They do have power and integrated seat belts.
Dennis, can't help on the stock reproduction question. However this thread is about diy building a stock appearing seat using suitable foam in place of springs. The route I'd take if in your situation. Stock look but much more comfortable.