Seat Surgery

As the un-winter of 2012 draws on, I have begun the late stages of Miata Withdrawal, characterized by obsessive research on suspension setups, pretending one's automatic daily driver has a manual, and mild tremors. I was able to visit the car this weekend, with the plan of starting it up for a bit and charging the battery. The original plan was to bring it home, but the surprise snowstorm changed that (at least it happened BEFORE I took it out). I didn't even start it though, because it turns out I need a key to do that. I remembered the battery (stored inside to prevent it going flat), but forgot to bring a key.

I was able to accomplish one project: a seat "foamectomy" recommended by several folks on Miata.net.

Step 1: Prep
Remove the seat from the car (see link above), then grab a serrated knife, a pair of dikes, pliers, and zip ties (or hog rings, if you want to hate life)


Step 2: Remove lower hog rings
Flip the seat over and recline it forward. Fold back the seat cover, exposing the three hog rings holding the center panel in place (circled). You can pry the hog rings apart, or just cut and replace them later.


Step 3: Remove center panel hog rings
Flip the seat back over, then pull the center panel up, exposing the six hog rings holding the cover on the padding. Pry/cut them off and pull out the foam.


Step 4: Cut foam
Grab your trusty serrated knife and section the foam along its thickness. Below is what worked for me, you can shape it as you like. Some folks have removed the foam completely, I found that to be a bit too extreme. What I did helps with lumbar support, while still placing the driver deeper in the seat.


Step 5: Reinstall foam
Put the foam back into the cover. You can use hog rings, I prefer zip ties because they are easier to use and remove later (if necessary).


Step 6: Trim Zip Ties
Cinch them down tight and trim off the excess. Fold the center section down and reinstall the three rings/ties that secure the cover in place.


Step 7: Enjoy your "new" seat!
The final product is indiscernible from stock until you sit in it. With the caveat that I haven't taken a multi-hour trip in it yet, comfort is comparable to stock. The bolsters actually feel like they are holding me in the seat now.


Step 8: Partake of an adult beverage (OPTIONAL)
Beer of the moment is Smuttynose Brewing Old Brown Dog Ale. So tasty!