Ordered the new leather from Shane - New FAQ coming soon

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Romer

Romer

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So after procrastinating a while I finally oredered the new leather set from Shane.

I debated from the Lexus lokking (non Band) leather to the newer style (Band) he made and installed in Metaltech's Orange 80.

I went with the Toyota Band leather as Shane said it was better quality and more peaces came with it.

So I will be installing this on my truck and as I typically do will put an FAQ item on how to together.

Now if anyone has done this themselves already, tips, lessons learned and anything helpful you can add prior to my doing this would be appeciated and you will be qouted and used as part of the FAQ.

So, post up if you have swapped out your leather and share your experiance.
 
I have not done leather but have done Vinyl in my wifes 78 Super Beetle and did a cloth set in my 88 FJ62 a few years ago.
First I will say if you haven't already, buy a new seat cushion for at least the drivers side. It makes a huge difference, at least it did on the FJ62. You can probably have one made or get an aftermarket that will be more comfortable than the original.
Second, assuming it uses hog rings, buy a good set of hog ring pliers. You are going to install about 100 hog rings and a good pair is not expensive and makes it much easier.
Third, I am not sure if the leather is anything like the vinyl but it made it much easier to slip on after letting it sit out in the sun and get warm, it is softer and stretchier. The leather probably won't get any stretchier but I am guessing it will get softer.
Good luck, each seat you do gets easier, I am considering re-doing my fronts pretty soon so let us know how it goes and post some pictures.
Rusty
 
Ken,

This is next on my mod list so I am happy to see you tackle this first as I know you will write a great DIY. Since Shane is so close to me I may have him do the install this summer.

Good Luck:cheers:

What color did you get?
 
TomH said:
This might help.
Click to expand...

That is very helpful



jditom said:
Ken,

This is next on my mod list so I am happy to see you tackle this first as I know you will write a great DIY. Since Shane is so close to me I may have him do the install this summer.

Good Luck:cheers:

What color did you get?
Click to expand...

I got the one that matches Oak so I guess tan
 
How much is a set of leather? I really need leather for our 94.
 
I need one new set for mine newly acquired LX450 too.
 
Shane,

I suspect you have been asked them many times but have you considered a product for the steering wheel? I wouldn't mind covering over the factory leather, like the Wheelskins, which results in a larger OD, but the problem with the Wheelskins is that they don't cover enough of the spokes. I know, we're always whinning...first the center console and now he wants the steering wheel as well!

Great job on the seat leather btw. I need the wife to see the 80 when we are home this summer and I will probably order some then.....if for no other reason than to get that "new" car smell!

Looking forward to the FAQ!
 
This has been something I've been kicking around too, just need to make up my mind on what I'm doing with my 80.
 
Did the fronts last week gotta do the middle row this week. Get some hog ring pliers and some silicon spray. Tom's write up is pretty good memorize it. I replaced the seat bottoms with the Lexus foam it filled out nicely and is super comfy. The foam on the backs were ok but the new leather looked a bit baggy on the sides. I think it has tightened up though. When you start with the new cover on the bottom it attaches to the chair a bit differently than stock mess around with it and it will become clear. Once its on pull it in place and start lining up your seams use the spray so the leather will slide over the foam easier. Remember to get everything pretty much in place and stretched before you start cutting holes for seat controls and head rests. Also make sure that the plastic head rest pieces go all the way in. You will have to make the hole is large enough and don't let the leather doesn't get pushed in as you insert the plastic pieces.

I am thinking the middle will be a bit harder with arm rests and all. I haven't done the headrests yet either got figure that one out still.

Overall the leather looks great. This mod really makes driving more enjoyable.
 
NStimac said:
....The foam on the backs were ok but the new leather looked a bit baggy on the sides. I think it has tightened up though....
Click to expand...

This seems to be the case on all the installation pic's I have seen. Still better than old worn leather but it would be nice to have it look factory tight. I wonder if an upholstery shop could remedy this?
 
sundaypunch said:
This seems to be the case on all the installation pic's I have seen. Still better than old worn leather but it would be nice to have it look factory tight. I wonder if an upholstery shop could remedy this?
Click to expand...

My bet is it is a problem with the old foam, and if you got all new foam than you'd be fine.
 
What about the seat back panels? Do they come off? If so...how? Don't mean to hijack but I need to pull mine off and repair them somehow. They are no longer snug around the edges of the seat.
 
sundaypunch said:
This seems to be the case on all the installation pic's I have seen. Still better than old worn leather but it would be nice to have it look factory tight. I wonder if an upholstery shop could remedy this?
Click to expand...

The covers are correct in pattern. (some people) have used zip ties when fastening the listing to the inner seat frame, it should be done with hog rings. Seat backs should be turned inside out and then installed by rolling them down to the first listing and making sure it is even and square. use as much silicone spray as you can to achieve this feat. Once the listings as anchored in you can start the last leg of pulling down the last part and start attaching. You mush get the edges pulled tight to look right when finished, or it will take a few weeks of getting in and out to get them to settle. I would recommend pulling one down at a time and using the other as a referance.

I was offering two choices before one being smooth and the other gathered as many did not know what was correct. "Gathered" is correct from the factory and the only way I will be offering these.

Doc said:
My bet is it is a problem with the old foam, and if you got all new foam than you'd be fine.
Click to expand...

I had an upholstery shop install a set and they used a steamer much like a dry cleaners would have. I asked why steam the foam? They said that it is not closed cell foam and the steam will revitalize the foam by adding air to the cells. :confused: ok.....

Best,

Shane
 
Ken or anyone going to add seat heaters while you are in there?

The misses will wheel with you more often if you do:doh:
 
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