Topic: Seat bumper installation. Not as easy as hoped

[Ace Blackwell]

All I’m putting my seat back together after painting. I’m trying put the bumpers back in. I’m using soap and lots of push. I don’t want to rotate or man handle too much for fear the old rubber will split.

Is there a special tech anyone has had luck with?  Or is it just trial and error.

Also the wing nut for the plastic tool cover. Is this a standard size? Standard meaning typical and not some 1977 motorcycle only thread pitch.  After the paint job the post are coated pretty good. I expect resistance until the paint is stripped. I don’t want to  mistake painted thread resistance for cross threading.

[b1jackson]

I've used a plastic wedge before.  Like those special tools you use for removing door panels so they don't scratch or tear.  Cheaply available and allows you to safely push in the rubber without tearing it and if it slips, won't scratch the paint.

[madmtnmotors]

I've used a plastic wedge before.  Like those special tools you use for removing door panels so they don't scratch or tear.  Cheaply available and allows you to safely push in the rubber without tearing it and if it slips, won't scratch the paint.

I do something similar in that I use a small tool to push the edge of the shoulder of the "pin" into one side of the hole then work my way around a little at a time until it goes in. I usually try to do this with the bare pan before putting the foam and cover back in place. It might help to soak the bumper in hot water first to soften it up a little. Keep using a little soap/lube as well, I'll use a little petroleum jelly on really stubborn ones.

If I remember! 

[Ace Blackwell]

Thanks for the help guys.   I did the same.  I used a small plastic tool used for opening Zunes and IPhones.  Shoe horn in one side of the flare through the hole.  Pushed the bumper towards the side that was through, (careful not to push hard enough the shear off).  Then work around.  They were all a little different so not sure there is a single technique.  Some i used the plastic tool like taking a tire off rim.  Some I was able to keep a grip with fingers tips.  I did prep bumper with petro jelly.  Over all not horrible.  Turned out fine with none twisted off.  Oh and yes i had the form/cover off. Id just gotten the pan painted.

Thanks again