87 Carrera Seat Removal

[Ojai911]

I am looking to replace the carpets in my 87 Carrera Coupe. First job is to remove the seats and I can't shift the 6mm hex bolts on the seats. I got one out and now I'm afraid to use too much force on the others in case I strip the bolt. Any hints or tips? What is the best tool to use and does it help to use WD-40 or similar on the bolts?
Thanks!

[JAR0023]

Couple of things that helped me. I found the front most and rear most weren't too bad, it was the two tucked up under the rear of the seat that were toughest.

Make sure the recess in the bolt head it nice and clean. Make sure your allen key is nice and square on the end and not rounded off. Stay away from ball end drivers.

Two tools that helped me; I have a set of 1/4" drive allen "sockets" that are for lack of a better description, tiny, compared to most 3/8" drive sockets. These with a lo-profile ratchet I could actually get both tucked under the seats. The other tool I happen to have on hand but is easy enough to make is a basic 6mm allen key with the short "L" shortened. The short side allows you to get tool into the bolt straight and full depth with the seat in the way.

Worst case if you do end up with a stripped bolt head you can try and hammer a torx bit into the bolt and this may give you enough purchase to get the bolt loose. -J

[Cattler]

Mine had little blocks of metal inside the track that held the bolt in place. I learned quickly to ensure these pulled clear of the track as I went along. Feel / look for them before you dig in.

Also helps you remember where they go when its time to put the seats back in.