TheSamba.com :: View topic - Rear Bench Re-install, 7-Pass Non-Camp w/new interior panels

Tue Jul 23, 2013 2:40 pm

Hi all-

Am in the process of replacing my interior panels with new ones sourced from sewfineproducts.com.

Installing in an '87 Syncro Vanagon, 7-Passenger, Non-camper.

Any tips, gleaned from prior experience, for re-installing the rear bench (without completely mangling the trapezoidal panels that sit parallel to the bench)?

Thus far, we've removed the middle bench to allow for more space to maneuver, removed the lower kick panel under the rear bench, and have covered parts of the rear bench and panels that make contact.

With the SewFine panels being slightly thicker than the original panels, however, the added thickness has effectively foiled our attempts at re-install.

I've also spoken with SewFine - and they cited little/no experience installing these panels and bench in a 7-Passenger, non-camper van.

Many thanks in advance for any info on this! :)

Tue Jul 23, 2013 3:39 pm

Did you remove the cushion parts of the bench? On my '86 it just takes four bolts on the seatback and seat-bottom to pull them off. Then it is much easier to maneuver the seat frame. I imagine with one person on each side, you should have an easier time squeezing the frame in without destroying your nice new panels.

Tue Jul 23, 2013 3:45 pm

Thanks Tim. Haven't tried that yet. I'll check this out and post my results. :)

Tue Aug 06, 2013 9:50 pm

tim_ha wrote: Did you remove the cushion parts of the bench? On my '86 it just takes four bolts on the seatback and seat-bottom to pull them off. Then it is much easier to maneuver the seat frame. I imagine with one person on each side, you should have an easier time squeezing the frame in without destroying your nice new panels.

Removing the cushion parts did the trick. Thanks again for the tip. :)

Wed Aug 07, 2013 2:11 am

I just tried installing a rear bench solo without removing cushions. My interior panels are torn up and I cross threaded 3 out of 4 of the bolts that hold the z-bed frame to the body! I couldn't believe how quick the job got out of hand. Don't try and install a bench seat in a time crunch when it's 100 degrees outside!

I've removed both the back and bottom cushions now and am installing frame only as the first step. Banging my head on the wall for not doing it the first time.

Purchasing an M12 x 1.25 tap tomorrow, wish me luck on saving the threads!

-Rob

Wed Aug 07, 2013 7:52 am

Quote: Removing the cushion parts did the trick. Thanks again for the tip. :)
glad I could help! I have gleaned so much great info from thesamba and now I finally have contributed back 8)