Difficulty removing back seat bottom on '70 Deville convertible

[chrisntam]

When you remove the seat bottom on your '65 to '70 Devilles, is it a really, really tight fit?

I struggle to get mine out and back in, it's almost too wide.  Both door panels are in as far as they can go.  I actually scrape up (nearly) the back door panels to remove and replace it.  As far as I know, it is the original seat bottom, doesn't look any different (on top or under) than any other seat in the interior.

Is that your experience as well?  I've taken other back seat bottoms out and they remove and replace with ease.

Struggling in Dallas......

[Ralph Messina CLC 4937]

I had a similar problem with my ’66 convertible. After struggling, I asked the upholstery shop for any tricks. You have to position the cushion with the rear under the seat back. Lift the front of the cushion up about 1-2 inches and push in hard. You’ll feel the rear portion of the cushion slide up on the rear body bulkhead so the catch on the front of the cushion is behind the hook on the floor. When that happens lower the front of the cushion. If you don’t raise the cushion you’re pushing against the hook on the floor

I was dealing with new upholstery with new foam. I had to sit in the front door opening with my back against the cowl door jam, and lift and push on the cushion with one leg to get enough force on the seat.

HTH

[Scot Minesinger]

Agree with Ralph 100%, mine has been in and out several times for various reasons.  Best to do in garage with top down and get some good lighting so you can see the hooks.  Check the seat wire frame to make sure no broken springs - that can make it more difficult to remove and reinstall.  To mend broken springs I use cable clamps (four on each mend, not two) and 1/4" round stock sistered to original springs - works great.  The push in to re-latch hooks is easy in rubber soled shoes with back on door hinge side of body and using legs.

[76eldo]

 Crisco?

Brian

[Ralph Messina CLC 4937]

Crisco?

Brian,

Only if you are planning a party in the back seat.

Ralph

[chrisntam]

Crisco?

Brian

A little fat in the can.....

[76eldo]

Party in the back seat?

I bought my first 70 DeVille convertible in the late 70's, like 1978 or so.  I was 21.
There were a few parties in that car for sure...

Brian

[Bob Hoffmann CLC#96]

I prefer KY! LOL!!!

[chrisntam]

Thanks for the tip, I'll try it.  I just a little stunned it's so tight.  No reason it should be that tight.

[cadillacmike68]

My 1968 is a PITA as well. you have to angle it in and even then it is a tight fit sliding down the front end.