I got a similar estimate, here in NV., for $200 to do the same. My concern is in hoping the shop understands the delicacy in the electronics when removing the seat. After having read all the posts on "system anomalies" inherent in the nature of these cars; one wrong move and your dash turns into a Christmas tree event of faults...lol! On the "other hand" maybe I need to give them a little room to do their job... Just, I am getting really attached to my XK8 and I want it back in the same shape I dropped it off in, save my fixed interior... As a safety measure, I will request that they disconnect the battery before the unplug the seat.

 

You can use "liquid leather" to repair the worn out spot, and then apply a matched leather dye to cover the area. Total cost for me was around 50$, very easy to do.

There is a writeup in my signature's link.

 

be sure to tell them and/or show them how to remove the switchpack from the lower cushion, my upholstery shop broke the tab and it wouldn't stay put once they tried to put it back together. Once you see it out, you'll realize how easy it is to screw it up.

 

+1

Location of switchpack tab might help:

XK8 1997 - Seat Switchpack.pdf

It's a lot easier to find when you know what to look for!

Graham

 

Thanks for the heads up. I will tell them.

Bill

 

Graham,

Thanks for the link... This is how we learn. I will definitely point it out.

Bill

 

Had great luck with this I purchased from ebay, my seats were really shot.
eBay - New & used electronics, cars, apparel, collectibles, sporting goods & more at low prices

 

I just picked up my car as I had two panels on the drivers side replaced, looks like brand new, now would like to order some seat dye.

How do I figure out what color my seats are to order some dye?

I have a 1998 XK8 in "black" colored leather, but what is the specific "color" I need to order?

Thanks!

 

You'll find the 3 letter paint and trim codes on a label on the door pillar.



Post them back here for the decode.

Graham

 

My local guys quoted me 80US equivalent to replace the drivers seat front section with black leather and the interior pillars & top of the windscreen with black vinyl.

I think I am going to take the seat apart myself so as to avoid the switches being broken (by someone else).