How to Replace a Boat Seat
You've thought about changing that ratty seat since last season. Now, you've taken the plunge and purchased a new seat and you plan to install it before your next trip to the lake. It looks simple enough, but you're not sure of everything involved to do it. Take heart; with a few simple tools and a helper, the new boat seat can be in place in a matter of minutes, with a minimum of sweat.
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Instructions
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1
Remove the olds seat. Use the adjustable wrench to remove the bolts holding the seat pedestal to the deck. While you are removing the bolts, have your assistant hold the seat upright. Pull the old seat from the pedestal. Retain the bolts, as they will be used to install the new seat.
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2
If the seat has electronic connections through its pedestal for the rudder or throttle, lay the new seat down and make those connections before attaching it to the deck. After you have made the connections, stand the seat up and set it in place, aligning the bolt holes. If the pedestal has an attached foot rest, make sure it is facing forward.
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3
Tell your assistant to steady the seat in the upright position. Use the adjustable wrench and reconnect two of the bolts, one on each side of the pedestal. Test the electronics in the seat, if the seat is so equipped. If everything is working properly then install the rest of the bolts.
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4
Test the seat's stability by shaking it vigorously: take a firm grip on the seat back and shove; turn the seat 90 degrees clockwise and shove again. Repeat this until you have shoved the seat four or five times. Tighten the bolts again if necessary.
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5
Polish the pedestal with a metal cleaner to remove fingerprints and smudges.
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Tips & Warnings
If the seat is equipped with controls for the engine and throttle, be certain that the systems on the boat work before you begin to seat installation.
Pedestal seats are heavy enough to cause hand or foot injuries during installation. Use caution and wear shoes when installing.
