How to Install Racing Seats

For grassroots drivers who enter production cars in events such as SCCA road course racing or local stock car races, installing a racing-style seat is a mandatory safety requirement and necessary for being competitive in races. Other people might install them in their sports cars to enhance the overall driving experience. No matter the reason, installing racing seats is an easier task than one might expect if you follow some basic rules and plan ahead.

Things You'll Need

  • Socket Wrench Set
  • Phillips Head Screwdriver
  • Hammer
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Instructions

  1. Removing Existing Seats

    • 1

      Adjust the position of the car seat so it is upright and will not slip. Locate the four bolts that fasten the seat onto the car frame, open the covers and remove the bolts.

    • 2

      Tilt the seat onto its back and remove all connections, including the seat belt wire and any electrical wires. Roll the seat onto its side and swing it out to remove it from the car.

    • 3

      Locate the plastic cover on the side of the seat with the seat belt receiver and remove the two screws holding it on. Remove the long bolt holding the seat belt receiver to the seat, and replace the plastic cover.

    Installing the New Racing Seat

    • 4

      Check your new racing seat to see if the brackets and sliders are already assembled. If they have not been, connect them together while making sure they are facing in the right direction.

    • 5

      Screw in the seat belt receiver to the seat bracket. If necessary, remove the spacers on the seat to fit your car, but only if it will not fit otherwise.

    • 6

      Attach the new bracket to the race seat before placing it into your car. If the seat brackets do not fit the existing holes in the car, use a drill or screwdriver to make new holes after doing a test fitting.

    • 7

      Install the race harness and then the bolts, using a hammer if necessary to achieve a proper fit.