Preserving cover from a middle seat when removing

[azbob]

Long story short, I got a bad 2/3 backrest cover for a 67 only and didn't realize it until I was 1/2 way through installing. Front installed correctly, back did not line up, at all. So I need to figure out how to remove the plastic strip from the slot in the seat frame. Its a pretty tight fit and I know there has to be a trick to do this, I'm just not finding one through the ol google machine.

Any one know of tricks to get those plastic strips out of that slot?
_________________
Bus Builder

[NAES]

I would need some pics to understand what you're talking about.
_________________
Barndoor Mafia
Box On Wheels
SBS #00

[Z]

I think you could open up the slot gently with a screwdriver, etc., enough to release the anchoring strip from the channel. Even if you have to touch up the seat frame, it should be ok, assuming that your seat frame/channel are in good enough shape to stand some gentle bending.

[azbob]

Here's what I had to send TMI to explain what the problem was. Should show that the front of the seat cover has the plastic installed.

To be honest, I think they still don't understand what the problem is.

Z - I'm not certain I'd want to pry it apart. I guess that may be the option tho. I'm thinking there has to be an industry trick to getting it out w/o damaging the frame, right? ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
_________________
Bus Builder

[campingbox]

Oops. Looks like they made a mistake.

I’ve taken them apart when I’ve had one side in like that with a pick. It’s a challenge. Relieve some pressure with your hand, then start at one side and work it out with a pick and a putty knife.

It might be easier and cleaner just to leave it in, cut that plastic strip with some dykes, but be careful not to cut the thread, then tie the thread off and move on.

[azbob]

[Douglas Denlinger]

Bob,

I can fix the problem.....is TMI sending you a replacement?
If not it will take me about an hour.
_________________
Transporter Restorations
Upholstery Haus

Active 23 Window Samba Collector/Restorer,since 1986

[azbob]

@Doug - I got the replacement the other day, just looking ideas on how best to remove the defective one w/o cutting it. I think I'll be using a couple O ring picks and hooks.
_________________
Bus Builder

[zozo]

The back on mine was about 2" too long. I'd have had to put a 6" mattress inside to take up the slack. WW wasn't even slightly interested in doing anything about it. C'est la vie.

[hitest]

You'll need to make a way to support your seat firmly to something and inch by inch, work the cover off while compressing the spring pack. Just like install but in reverse for folks who don't use the "inside out" method of install. Get your work space warm. Keep the material soft. Squeeze each side bolster with one hand and work the material up with the other. Pull up an inch this side, an inch that side, and so on. It will take exactly 35 minutes and you will have the gripping strength of a bulldog when you're done.

Incidentally, I had the same issue using a '63 short middle seat in a '66. The center support apparently is located differently from year to year. Doug D is right- the center can be "relocated" with a new cut and sewing up the remaining strip. Anyone who can see Doug's repair is too damn close to your bus!
_________________

[azbob]

[azbob]

Ended up having to cut the strip. I tried...

Here's how lovely the replacement fits

_________________
Bus Builder

[zozo]

That looks a whole lot better than mine. Other than the pucker in the center, it looks like it fits fairly well. Also, once it's in the bus, you have to be something of a contortionist to even see that.

I'd like to see more pictures if you get a chance, highlighting the more challenging areas as well as the overall profile. No worries, if it's a PITA.

[azbob]

[zozo]

Does anyone have any idea if WW will sell just the backrest cover?

azbob, you've caused me to think about mine being such a mess, and now I want to fix it. Not sure whether to curse you or bless you. LOL

[azbob]

[zozo]

That looks GREAT! I think your grab handles will mount perfectly. Very nice job.

My armrest has little cracks in the vinyl, but I dare not mess with it for fear of making it worse.

Thanks for the pics. They're prodding me into action, albeit with sloth-like enthusiasm.

[azbob]