My 67 SportWagon has a solid back bench in it. I just happen to have another identical bench and several arm rests out of late model roadmasters. Anybody know if its possible to convert one of these benches into a split configuration? Thought maybe I could make it happen but I've never seen a split bench without the upholstery on it to see what would be involved. Thanks for any ideas or advice.
The seat base design USUALLY is specific to that style of seat; the supports and mounts are not built into them for other style. Even on later models that offer bucket seats on four door and two door models, the recliner actuator is different for four door versus two door models; the four doors do not tilt forward and do not have release knobs for rear seat exit. You would think in trying to cut costs, the manufacturer would have only the two door style to reduce parts stock. It would require disassembly of the base to see if the change was even feasible, I believe the fabric and padding would cover any design allowances. You would have to have all of the appropriate mechanisms to convert it; Bench generally just tilts straight forward, split bench tilt at an angle slightly, split bench with center armrest tilt with even more angle. I went out and looked at both convertibles to check.
I am in the process of adding a bench seat with arm rest/ head rests to my GS. I can confirm the two frames are different. You can use a Pontiac (which I am using) and I would think Olds & Chevy to.
Tilting not required, 4 door. Figured that the bases would be different, was just hoping that maybe somebody had given this a try and made it work. Since I have two benches thought I could make it work, really want an armrest. Maybe I could try just adding an armrest to the solid bench like they did on the big cars.
I don't understand why you would want a split bench in a 4 door? They made benches with arm rests and they have to be from 67 back due to the width. They can be shipped if the seller is willing to break it down. I bought one in Washington state and had a board member get it, disassemble and ship it to me in Virginia (Thanks!). I then got late model headrests and added them. My upholstery guy did a fantastic job and it is very comfy! The only issue is the limited range going back which you should address while you have it out( if you are over 5'10"). Simply weld extensions on the feet in order to move the holes forward. There was a factory service bulletin to that effect.
I want a split bench with arm rest just like you showed in your first picture, which is in being shown in a four door hardtop. Like I said, thought I might be able to make my own since I already have two solid back benches from two different '67 SportWagons. Just a way to use what I have and save the acquisition and shipping costs. Nice job on keeping the special upholstery design.
Got it - I thought you wanted the back to fold down like in a two door car. If you use a good custom upholstery shop - they can make/cover anything. Can you do metal work? So you need to strip the backs to the frame, create two seat backs the size of buckets(cut them down). Find a center armrest with the hinges/hardware. I think you can do it. Once you get down to the frame it will become obvious. Talk to the upholstery shop and find out how he would do it and what he needs to work his magic! He might even have some old parts you could use. Maybe I am missing something! this might help you visualize: http://www.hotrod.com/articles/rebuilding-a-stock-bench-seat-part-1/
Nope, you got what I want to do. Was just hoping maybe somebody had already done it and could provide pointers, or even a picture of a nude seat would be really helpful. I looked in the Factory manual and they don't show much of the structure of the seat, just the outside. I got some time, I'll keep looking. Thanks for the link.
