Converting regular seats to "sport"

[Charles Freeborn]

My stock seats (non "sport") are due for re-covering. I'd like to have a more secure seating arrangement for track days. So, while all the framework is exposed is it possible to add the side bolsters found on the "sport" seats? I'd also like to add belt guides for 5 or 6 point harnesses. Ideally I'd modify an existing seat cover, rather than start from scratch.
Not terribly concerned about FIA compliance, etc as this car is 99% street, with the occasional DE during the summer months.

I'd be very interested to see photos of seat frames with all the upholstery removed.

Thanks,
-C

[bhmkv]

With the rising value of these cars everyday Id save the original seats and buy some recaro, momo or sparco racing seats. They bolt right in with sliders. They are cheap to find used and easy to sell when you are done with them. That way you can bolt the original seats back in if you ever decide to sell. Just my opinion.

[Arne2]

Charles, it seems to me that there is an upholstery shop in Seattle that advertises this mod. I'll try to look through my stuff when I get home tonight.

[gliding_serpent]

subscribed. Intrigued .

[Kemo]

intrigued as well...

[ROW911SC]

Heritage Upholstery & Trim - Classic Car Interiors for conversion...

[Discseven]

Charles... Jim/DRACO took his seats apart for a nice rebuild. Thread...

DIY Re-upholstery Front Sport Seats kit 85-89

[Charles Freeborn]

Sweet. Thanks gents. I'll read through and report back.
Swapping out seats for de days is certainly an option. As the sport seats are much more desirable, if it can be done cleanly I think the value will hold. My car is no looker, so less concerned with originality, but point taken nonetheless.

[gtc]

I'd be surprised if you couldn't purchase some fairly decent condition sport seats for what it costs to reupholster and modify yours.

[cjannelli]

When I had my standard seats redone by Autobahn Interiors, I inquired about converting to sports seats(87 Carrera). Tony Garcia said it wasn't really possible given that it would require a modified steel frame. Not cost effective for me at least.
Chris

[Canada Kev]

There's also Paul Champagne. He mostly specializes in 928 stuff, but does 911 leather and is active in the sport seat conversion arena. Here's a couple shots of his work, including a hard back version made from a comfort seat.

Design Paul Champagne Porsche Leatherworks

[bhmkv]

Wow those look pretty cool.

[geshaghi]

As noted above, true sport seats have a steel frame that is foamed to create the bolsters. The centers are also sprung differently on the seat bottoms. I have a late SC sport seat in the shop that has been stripped and can get a couple of pictures tomorrow to show what the structure looks like. Most sport seat conversions that I have seen have involved just adding some foam to the bolster area, which looks fine but I don't think it would provide enough lateral support in spirited driving or DE events. While it might be possible to actually add the frame to a standard seat, I've never tried this.

[Canada Kev]

I believe Champagne welds on the metal frame for the bolsters, but am unsure if Heritage does.

[Charles Freeborn]

Metal and welding are no problem for me.
-C