1961 plastic seat covering removable?

[Z28johnny]

I just got my grandpa's 61 Thunderbird. All the seats (except the back of driver) have clear custom-fit plastic installed with hog rings... it's this a normal thing? I was going to remove it because it is old and yellowed and it looks like the seats underneath will be amazing.

Moderator Note: After seat cover removal photos here-

1961 Ford Thunderbird

forums.fordthunderbirdforum.com

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[biddle]

Back in the day, people would put this on their furniture and car upholstery, aftermarket of course.

 

[Bond007]

I say give it a try but start in a spot that’s not very noticeable. This is in case the plastic has fused to the seat. Go slowly!

 

[kbuhagiar]

I would go for it, and like Bond says, be cautious. I definitely think you will be in for a pleasant surprise, friend of mine inherited a 67 Caprice from his grandmother, had the same yellowing seat covers, we ripped those suckers off (nothing stuck, it all ca,me right off) and presto, it was like getting brand new upholstery.

Good luck and keep us posted with the results!

 

[Tbird Rich]

Maybe use a hair dryer or heat gun gently and slowly

 

[Z28johnny]

My son and I had to remove the seats. When the plastic was put on they basically did it to perfection and it was installed as if it were the actual vinyl/clothe covers.

Nothing was sticking at all. The old plastic was stinky though so this should make the car smell much better!

Underneath the plastic it really is like new! It is very supple and there are no stains. I'm guessing this was installed at the dealership or shortly thereafter.

 

[Bond007]

Glad that it went so well. Grandpa did you a great favor.

 

[Z28johnny]

Here are a couple all installed! My grandpa bought it in like 68, so I think the original owner did it. It totally is something my grandpa would do though.

 

[biddle]

@Z28johnny make sure you take some good photos of the car and add to our photo gallery soon! https://forums.fordthunderbirdforum.com/thunderbird-photos/albums/

 

[kbuhagiar]

Man, what a cream puff! That is gorgeous!

 

[Dave H]

With an interior that looks as good as this, would love to see pics of the complete car.

 

[biddle]

With an interior that looks as good as this, would love to see pics of the complete car.

Media added by Z28johnny

forums.fordthunderbirdforum.com

 

[Dave H]

Wow! It's gorgeous!

 

[Whiz]

Beautiful. It’s like they were preserved in a Time Capsule. More pictures, please!

 

[MickyD]

When I was a kid my mother had our 57 Plymouth covered with custom made plastic covers. Kept the seats clean but real hot when out in the sun, especially if you had a bathing suit on. I still remember burning my butt on that plastic. What a beautiful car.

 

[BillM]

great car enjoy