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I want to stay close to the plain seat covers like originally came in my `55. The red and grey panels in particular. That original rayon weave not so much. But most vendors have nothing close at all to what I have found so far. I have my original upholstery that can be carefully cut apart and used for correct size patterns. Tho has shrunk in the last few decades or so.
The foam on my original seat is dried out and crumbling into powder. Completely dead. I see recommendations for using memory foam mattress covers to replace old foam. If someone has used it before, is it dense and firm enough to hold shape?
I am down to a couple of options. One, is to practice up on an old treadle machine and make it a true DIY project or, get a local guy to make it for me. The premium material that has been recommended is arctic vinyl. All weather with UV protection. like for marine use. From what I remember the last time I bought was fairly expensive.
Thanks for any suggestions and/or recommendations.
Last edited by fordtrucksforever; Jan 27, 2026 at 04:51 PM.
I have narrowed down the material that may work for my truck. The red is close to the original color about 50 years ago. Not so much now. The new material is wine in color.
The original red material is not anything I would care to keep the same. Whatever it was is not so comfortable. Rayon or some new space age plastic back then was short lived. The woven pattern has a tendency to cause some serious static. Especially this time of year.
This is what I am seriously considering as the replacement for the panels in seat cover. The pattern is not perforated, but dotted with indents. From a distance will still look similar to original. Up close, not so much. But better looking than just a large plain panel..
This gray is close enough in color and texture. It will also be used on door panels with possibly an accent stitching around the border for a finished edge. I dont want anything fancy or deviate too much from original appearance. A red inlay on panel may be in the plan, but for now that is more of icing on the cake.
Next thing is to dig out the family treadle machine. Then grab a new belt and bottle of 3in1 oil. How hard can it be? Maybe I could become another utube star.
Another possibility for the red inserts on seat is a crocodile texture. Not sure about this one. Really would like to see it up close.
If this vinyl is shiny like it appears, I may toss the choice completely. It looks sort of looks like what a cheap purse would be made from. Think I will stick to the first choice. Material is more than affordable and marine grade.
When I redid the seat in my old '63 F100 I bought the foam online from a place called foam factory. I used a modern foam and the seat was very comfortable.
I have narrowed down the material that may work for my truck. The red is close to the original color about 50 years ago. Not so much now. The new material is wine in color.
The original red material is not anything I would care to keep the same. Whatever it was is not so comfortable. Rayon or some new space age plastic back then was short lived. The woven pattern has a tendency to cause some serious static. Especially this time of year.
Is this your original seat material. Your truck must be a Custom Cab. In 55 the Custom Cab trucks had 2 colored seats depending on the trucks body color. Green seat material for green and yellow trucks. Red seat material for red blue and black trucks.
