I see lots threads on taking the front seats completely out, but is there a way to remove the bottom seat cushion of the driver seat without taking the whole seat out of the truck?
Also some threads on taking the seats all the way out make it sound the seats are welded to the cross member; others make it sound like they can just be unbolted. Which is correct?
I have a 99 4Runner Limited (power seats).
Thanks!
I removed my seats this past winter to put seat heaters in. To answer your question simply: No you cannot remove the seat cushion without removing the seat entire seat from the vehicle. Here's why. There are four bolts, one one each corner that hold the cushion frame to the rest of the frame. The plastic side panel cover the sides of the seat, where those bolts are located. The seat adjuster controls need to be removed to get to the plastic panels. There are 2 electrical plugs that need to be disconnected, but first recline the seat about half way back (this will line up the access of the seat back with the two rear bolts holding the cushion. Also, of course, the four bolts holding the whole thing to the floor.
Follow these steps:
Recline the seat halfway back.
Locate the bolts caps on the floor and remove them.
Remove bolts holding the seat to the floor
Tip the seat back, disconnect electrical plugs
Remove seat from vehicle
A camera to remember how it all goes back together is helpful
Remove adjuster controls, GENTLY pry them loose.
There is a screw on the back end of the plastic side covers, remove them
Pull the top edge of the plastic cover back to see where it attaches to the seat frame. GENTLY work from back to the front. The most forward clip requires you to slide it forward to free it from the frame, GENTLY
Loosen the wiring from the clips on the bottom of the cushion
Locate the four bolts on the four corners. Remove them.
This is from memory. I may be missing a couple of screws and such. Just be gentle when removing the plastic parts.
Check that all screws have been removed before you go yanking on anything. Just remember how expensive some parts can be if you feel the urge to be impatient!
It fairly intuitive and straight forward. If the holes for the back bolts are not aligned, carry the seat over to your vehicle, plug the two connectors back in, and recline it one way or the other until they do line up. Easy Peasy!
