Seat cover fitting - 74 Challenger

Garp · Post by **Garp** » Thu Nov 19, 15 7:25 pm

So, I'm lucky (I think) to be having a relative who is considering bringing me a replacement set of front and rear covers for my '74 Challenger from PG Classics in the states.
Will I need to remove the seats and contact a good vehicle upholstery trimmer to get these fitted or is this something I can do myself ?
To be fair, I'm pretty ok with my hands and fix almost anything - just don't want to attempt something that only a seasoned professional would know how to do properly ...... I mean, I could probably cut a diamond given the right tools, would you give it to your missus, I doubt it !
Any help in advance of me trying would be gladly accepted.
Garp

Pete · Post by **Pete** » Thu Nov 19, 15 7:32 pm

I have found it quite possible to do your own if you are handy with a set of pliars (you really need Hog ring pliars).

The best way is to get the seat cover pretty warm - try a nice hot day (yeah, right!!) and lay them out flat and this makes them more pliable and easy to fit and stretch around the corners and gets the wrinkles out.

Work slowly and methodically and you will be OK - I bet you find that the padding and bolsters will need attention and you may have to use additional or replacement padding and springs, etc...

Dart Vader · Post by **Dart Vader** » Thu Nov 19, 15 7:35 pm

wrap the foam in cling film, it makes it easier to slip the covers over

Derek · Post by **Derek** » Thu Nov 19, 15 7:38 pm

I've done a couple of sets now, as Pete says warm the covers, take your time, hog ring pliers are a must.

Garp · Post by **Garp** » Thu Nov 19, 15 7:40 pm

Pete wrote: I bet you find that the padding and bolsters will need attention and you may have to use additional or replacement padding and springs, etc...

Thanks All ...in which case where would I source compatible padding and springs ? Are these just generic bits that one can get "off the shelf" or would I be better off getting replacements that are dedicated Dodge pieces ...... If you could just elaborate a tad' I'd be greatful.
Garp

Pete · Post by **Pete** » Thu Nov 19, 15 7:44 pm

The Foam "Squabs" are not generic, and may even vary from year to year.

Have a look on here for "Rock Auto" a US Trader for some examples.

It would be prudent to get the covers off and have a look for the worn bits - the Drivers side will most usually be the most worn / collapsed / repaired.

You could always post some pictures up of your findings.

Garp · Post by **Garp** » Thu Nov 19, 15 10:17 pm

Pete wrote:The Foam "Squabs" are not generic, and may even vary from year to year.

Have a look on here for "Rock Auto" a US Trader for some examples.

It would be prudent to get the covers off and have a look for the worn bits - the Drivers side will most usually be the most worn / collapsed / repaired.

You could always post some pictures up of your findings.

Thanks for that.

Bilko · Post by **Bilko** » Thu Nov 19, 15 10:33 pm

I did the full interior in my old Challenger, Got everything from Legendary Interiors including new foam and it fitted perfectly.

As Pete and Del have already said, the warmer you can get them the better they will fit. I did mine in the conservatory in Summer and it was like an oven in there, but no wrinkles.
Get a decent set of Hog pliers and a big bag of rings and you're good to go.

Garp · Post by **Garp** » Thu Nov 19, 15 11:18 pm

Jeeeeeez-Louise !
Now I got a standard to live up to. Thanks a bunch mate !
How about I bring mine round, buy the beers and you try that trick again ?
Seriously though, as I've never "hog-pliered" before, straight, angled, Spring-loaded, bent ? (And that's not me asking you out ......)

MilesnMiles · Post by **MilesnMiles** » Fri Nov 20, 15 7:48 am

Legendary Interiors have a bunch of detailed videos on Youtube. Just watched one and it looks as if technique and wrestling skills are essential
And good quality parts

Charger · Post by **Charger** » Fri Nov 20, 15 8:05 am

Garp wrote:set of front and rear covers for my '74 Challenger from PG Classics in the states

You already mentioned PG Classic

They do seat foams too …

http://www.pgclassic.com/seat-foams/

latil · Post by **latil** » Fri Nov 20, 15 8:33 am

Double check the seats are correct,you never know someone could have changed them to a different model year/type.

Pete · Post by **Pete** » Fri Nov 20, 15 8:41 am

Good point, Steve! You never know.

Bilko · Post by **Bilko** » Fri Nov 20, 15 3:51 pm

Garp wrote:Seriously though, as I've never "hog-pliered" before, straight, angled, Spring-loaded, bent ? (And that's not me asking you out ......)

You don't need anything fancy, this is what I used to do the job:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Gunson-77128- ... SwQJhUlDCq

Mopar Muscle Association UK

Seat cover fitting - 74 Challenger

Seat cover fitting - 74 Challenger

Re: Seat cover fitting - 74 Challenger