Looks like you already found the BB, those guys do know everything about these cars. Someone there will chime in soon.
Find your local Alfa club, I have yet to meet an Alfa owner that wouldn't bend over backwards for another Alfa owner.
Are you still spica? If so,
Ingram Enterprises, Inc. || Home Page is a good site for repairs.
Seating in my spider is similar to what you describe, I just got used to it.