Fronts seats...

[dixonmanor]

Are the stock low-backs recommended for daily/distance driving? PO put in kind of funky aftermarket seats, and I've been wanting to replace them. I'm a touch concerned about the saftey of lowbacks (whiplash) as well as the comfort level- my Thing is my only car, and I spend a LOT of time in those seats. I love the look of the lowbacks, though...

[bucko]

Go to the junkyard and locate a set of lBeetle seats (pre 73). These will have the same slider rails, and will provide you with the highback option you are looking for.

Things were equipped with low back seats, as they were designed for military use, and therefore no creature comforts were thought of. Even when they were sold in the U.S. during 73-74, they were sold as fun, utility vehicles. While I enjoy driving my 181, I would not consider a long distance trip in it, so I feel your pain (literally)!

[bmwloco]

I have Jetta Leather seats out of a GLI in my Thing, essentially Recaros.

Very comfortable, supportive, and arguably safer than stock.

Maybe. Anyone who thinks a Thing is "safe" is smoking crack

[Captain Spalding]

[scottienoel]

As I sit in a deposition where the Plaintiff was involved in a rear-end accident where he was hit from behind be a vehicle traveling a mere 45 mph (before applying brakes). Plaintiff was in the back seat of a mini van with no shoulder belt and no head restraint. As a result of the accident he was rendered a quad! So I would stick with the high back seats, espcially if it is your daily driver.
_________________
"The edge, there is no honest way to explain it as the only people who really know where it is are the ones who have gone over." HST

[dixonmanor]

What about racing seats with four point harnesses? Would the over-the-shoulder straps mount to the floor behind the seats?

[richtrek]

I am pleased that this question came up in that I am trying to install my old Miata seats in my Thing. I just got a Thing Shop show bar (it does not fit well and I am disappointed) and noted the same small plate. I have checked with a local specialty shop about welding on belt-mount tabs, and welding the top tubes together to address the safety issue. I feel the high backs and 3 point belts are critical and the minimum I can do to provide a degree of safety for myself and anyone riding in my Thing.

[Towel Rail]