Considering the replacement of your RV driver or passenger seat? The decision requires some advance research based upon your specific recreational vehicle before making a purchase.
Recently, we replaced both in our 2004 Alpine Class A motor home. We purchased ours through Camping World, choosing both driver and passenger seats manufactured by Flexsteel. We have been very happy with our selection as we travel now in comfort.
But in the process, we learned there are several factors you should consider as you make your buying decision:
A seatbelt is mandatory.
- Determine if your purchase will or will not include a base. Your new seats have to be mounted onto a base fastened into the floor of your RV securing them in place. If your purchase does not include a base, compare the base (width, length and attachment areas) supporting your current seats with the frame of the brand you are purchasing. If the current base does not match your replacement seat’s structure, you may have to find a new base that will fit, have someone fabricate an adaption to your current base, or have a custom base made—potentially time consuming and expensive actions.
- Check to see whether or not your replacement seat includes a seatbelt or can accommodate the belts from your current seat. To be compliant with motor vehicle laws, your seats must be fitted with a seatbelt.
- Verify the wiring for the new seat’s electrical functions matches your coach connections.
- Will your new seat fit into the space available? Check for slide clearance behind the driver and passenger seats. Is there raised footrest clearance for the passenger seat? Does your chair swivel? Check clearance here as well.
Check clearance for fully extended footrest.
There is another option you might consider. If the fabric or leather of your seat is in good condition, you may be able to have the interior padding within your current seat replaced. With this option, an upholstery expert removes the seat, replaces its interior padding, and then reinstalls the seat.
Whichever option you choose, nothing is as important as a comfortable seat for the drive. Back support is essential. So evaluate your aging seats and see if new replacements are in order.
From along the road,
Chris