Richard,
I had my dad re-do my seats back in "91. He replaced the plywood strip with
plywood! He used steam (lots) to form the plywood and 3/16" inch (I believe)
exterior grade plywood. The strip was then riveted to the seat frame using brass
rivets. He then used staples applied with a staple gun powered by compressed air
to attach the vinyl. He very rarely used tacks, just for tight spots where he
could not fit the gun. He ran an upholstery business for many years before
retirement and was glad to do the job.
He also made enhancements to the fabric attachment by using nylon twine to add
strength and maintain uniformity in the fit.
They came out great and still look brand new today over 10 years later. Every
time someone comments on the seats, I proudly say those were hand made by my
dad!
My advice to you is to locate a upholstery shop where the owner is older and may
understand how to form wood etc. You may try it yourself if you have the time.
Bob Labuz
1958 TR3A
1974 T140V
"Augustine, Richard S. (LNG-SHEP)" wrote:
> What have people used to replace the 3/16 plywood tack strip at the
> bottom of the TR3 seats when redoing them? Seems like there would be a
> modern (plastic?) replacement for the stuff that crumbled into slivers upon
> disassembly of my original seats, I mean it only lasted for 42 years!
> Is everyone using staples now for reassembly? When I was picking up
> staples at the local home store they had a small brad gun that looked like
> it would replicate the original nailing technique quite well. Are staples
> better, easier, more readily availible? Do I need a new toy...I mean vital
> restoration tool?
>
> Thanks,
> Scott Augustine
> 1959 TR-3A
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