replacement used sport seats

[bingobill]

Just bought an 89 325i convertible, wow, I love it. I was told it was an e-30, but have no idea how to tell or what to look for, but it will press you back into the seats. Speaking of seats they are my main concern, as they're cracked and have serious tears and holes.

Does anyone know what models and years whould have compatible sport seats that would fit the metal rails that are attached to the floor. I looked at Ebay and saw many auction offerings, but don't know what would fit with no or very modest alteration. Anybody got any ideas. I'm a self confessed "rookie", embarassed by my ignorance. I need to learn. Thanks

Bill

[Jeff at WallWerks]

Just go to World Upholstery. they sell covers and new pads if you need
them for your seats. They have cloth and leater. You need to find out ifyou have sport seats or reg. Most convertibles came with sport seats.

good luck

[jwbeamer11]

Jeff~ This World Upholstery you mentioned earlier are you able to buy kits to recover the seats your self??? My seats need to be recovered but to have it done is rather expensive. Thanks-
Jason

[Jeff at WallWerks]

hi Jason:

Yes, they sell just the parts. I am getting a kit in two weeks for my e30.
if you arent in a rush, Ill let you know "just how easy" it is.

take care

[Jared at Pelican Parts]

Jeff, I was thinking about this as well, What was the cost for the kit?

[bingobill]

I took Jeff's advice and looked at world upholstery, nice site, but a bit above my budget. It would cost about $1150.00 for front and back, and that's before my labor. I've now looked into the upolstery dye and restoration sites. Interesting. One company's product would cover 48 square feet, that's all side panels and front and rear seats. They also have a crack filler, and adhesives, backing material, and leather pieces to fill holes and slits. I've only began looking, and will report my findings.

Bill

[Jeff at WallWerks]

the question is, do you feel lucky when it comes to sewing seats?

[Jared at Pelican Parts]

Hmm. I thought these kits required no sweing..

[bingobill]

Based on the marketing materials, sewing is not required. A piece of backing material is placed under the hole or rip, adhesive applied, and I assume instantly grips when the two pieces are pressed together to hide the rip. They offer a seam filler, perhaps the same principle as a caulking gun, and any filled-in leather pieces are to be cut on an angle to make a "v groove" to accept the material, which is then smoothed out to hide the seam. I can see doing that, but still haven't received an answer about the "crack filling product." The kits also include sand paper. I'm uncertain if that is needed to rough up the seats to accept the stain, or to smooth the crack filler. I'm still researching, but if this technique works, the overall cost for an entire interior could be around $100.00, and is very appealing. It seems to be very similar to furniture refinishing. There is no question that a upholstery kit would be better, but if a refinish job is 90% comparable it may be a good economic choice.

Bill