sliceolator

Ever since purchasing the car back in February 08, had I always wanted to install the new carpet kit the previous owner included. It was after finally setting about removing the old carpet that I recalled the potential weight savings by simply deleting the rubber sound deadning material. Once I started, the removal process became infectious. I went a step further to remove the rear seat belts, latches, rear seat backing, rear center console, and stock stereo amp. I felt this was a good compromise to keeping a somewhat "stocK" look while reducing the unnecessary weight. The final numbers were somewhat surprising. Total "Dead Weight" removed =122lbs!!!!! (rubber material alone made up 100lbs) As for the ride noise and cabin volume, I can't even tell a difference. It sounds the same.
Below are the before and after pics from my adventure. Enjoy!

This this stuff is a real B!tCh to remove. Even using a work lamp to heat the rubber, it still took a few days to get it all out.


Putting the carpet back in was very quick. I used the 3M adhesive spray which really worked well!!! Plans for the rear console area include a mounted fire extinguisher.

mark kibort

wow! Ive done the job a bunch of times, but NEVER put it back. good for you ! Nice job.

mk

sliceolator

Thanks! I have to admit, on several occassions I've had the temptation to follow your lead and make a track beast out of her. But in the current condition (good) the car is in, I just can't bring myself to it. I will, however, have her on the track this spring!!!

Davey Mak

Good work sliceolator, i've been thinking about doing this to mine for a while, I didn't realise so much weight could be shed by doing this. I'm gonna e-bay my front seats too and get some sparco bucket seats to replace em.

IcemanG17

Looks good.....granted its much easier ripping it out....

sliceolator

Thanks Davey, was definitely worth the effort. I can attest the stock seats are VERY heavy - about 50lbs each. I've been looking at replacing those myself, but haven't found what I'm looking for. I want a lightweight, maual/reclineable seat that easily bolts into the stock holes. Let me know if you find anything.