Hello. I’m new to the forum. Just picked up a 1998 XJR. I noticed the front driver’s seat frame is broken. It is broken right where the triangle shaped brackets connect to where the big rivet is. I did some searching and seen this is known to happen. I have a couple of thoughts on how to fix it but I was hoping one of you all could share some knowledge or experience.

My first option is to swap out the entire seat frame for a new one. This seems to be a major pain as moving the parts and cushions is a fairly in depth job. My second option is to try and weld the brake back together. Definitely the cheapest but I suspect it would not be a permanent fix. My son and I are putting the car together for him so safety is the paramount option on this one.

I appreciate the advice.

 

I don't think you will have the strength with a weld. Maybe a local junkyard has a X300 or X308 that has a seat . . .

PO must have been a heavy dude . .

 

A seat frame swap took me a 2-3 hrs on my first attempt, the trick was lots of pics to show how the cover folded so I could put it back right. The frames are identical on all x308 seats, the differences are in the foam & coverings.

If you swap the frame try & assemble the new seat in the same position, as you can break the potentiometers quite easily on memory seats by making them move past their max positions. In theory the mech inside them slips so they self adjust but as they've got old they stick & break instead. I managed to break the fore & aft one on mine. The seat still works, but no longer moves back with the key out or adjusts the fore-aft position on the memory buttons.

 

I would also not recommend welding, as this means also that you have to take the seat apart, as you would not want to melt wires or any other parts, which don't like the heat.
So if you can find a seat from the wreckers...

 

Welcome to the Forums Capek13...here is something from The Marketplace on the top task bar left side. This long time member recently wrecked his and is parting it out in Frederick MD which isn't a long way from you (at least in my view, I drive a lot)... https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/market/284036 ...if you have other parts needs, or the whole car, there's your Huckleberry.

I know there is an older post of one in a Richmond recycle yard as well. So, I know there's one there if he hasn't canned it for the steel.