Upgrading Seats in a Bullnose Ford Truck (1980-1986)

Bullnose Ford Seats

The 1980-1986 Ford F-Series, known as the bullnose generation, is beloved for its rugged durability and classic design. However, as much as enthusiasts love these trucks, the original seats often leave something to be desired in terms of comfort and support, especially by today’s standards. Whether you’re looking to restore your truck to its former glory, improve your daily driving experience, or customize it to your personal taste, upgrading the seats is one of the most impactful modifications you can make.

This article will guide you through the process of upgrading the seats in your bullnose truck, covering which seats from other vehicles fit easily, the types of seats available, where to source them, considerations for reupholstering, and the pros and cons of adding modern seats. Additionally, we’ll address any modifications that may be required for certain seat swaps.

Why Upgrade the Seats in a Bullnose Ford Truck?

The original seats in the 1980-1986 F-Series trucks were designed for a different era of driving, where durability was prioritized over comfort. Over time, these seats can wear out, leaving them uncomfortable or even unsafe. Here are some reasons why upgrading the seats in your bullnose truck is a worthwhile investment:

  • Comfort: Modern seats offer better cushioning, lumbar support, and adjustability, making long drives more comfortable.
  • Safety: Newer seats may come with integrated seat belts or support for modern safety features like side airbags.
  • Aesthetics: Upgraded or reupholstered seats can dramatically improve the interior appearance of your truck.
  • Customization: New seats allow you to personalize your truck to fit your style and needs, whether for off-roading, daily driving, or show purposes.

Which Seats Fit Easily into a Bullnose Ford Truck?

One of the most important considerations when upgrading seats in a bullnose truck is compatibility. The easiest seats to swap into your truck are those from later model Ford trucks and SUVs, particularly because the mounting points are often similar or identical. Below is a list of vehicles and specific model years whose seats are known to fit easily or with minimal modifications:

1. 1987-1996 Ford F-Series Trucks
OBS Ford Seats
  • Compatibility: The seats from the 1987-1996 Ford F-150, F-250, and F-350 are among the most popular swaps for bullnose trucks. These seats have similar mounting points and often bolt directly into place with little to no modification.
  • Types of Seats Available: Bench seats and captain’s chairs (bucket seats) are available. These later model seats often feature improved padding and contouring.
  • Modification Requirements: Minimal; some minor drilling or the use of spacers may be required, but generally, these seats are a direct bolt-in.
2. 1997-2003 Ford F-Series Trucks
  • Compatibility: Seats from the 1997-2003 F-150, F-250, and F-350 can also be adapted to fit into bullnose trucks. These seats are more modern and comfortable, with options for power adjustments and integrated seat belts.
  • Types of Seats Available: Bucket seats, bench seats, and split-bench seats are common in this era. Many seats from this period also feature built-in headrests and more advanced lumbar support.
  • Modification Requirements: These seats generally require more modification, including drilling new holes for mounting or fabricating brackets. Electrical work may also be needed for power-adjustable seats.
3. 1980-1996 Ford Bronco
  • Compatibility: Since the Bronco shares its platform with the F-Series trucks, seats from the 1980-1996 Ford Bronco are often a direct fit.
  • Types of Seats Available: The Bronco offers a range of seating options, from basic vinyl seats to more luxurious cloth or leather options in higher trims. Rear bench seats from a Bronco can also be used in extended cab F-Series trucks.
  • Modification Requirements: Minimal; these seats typically bolt directly into place without modification.
4. Ford Explorer (1991-2001)
  • Compatibility: Seats from the first and second-generation Ford Explorer (1991-2001) are another popular choice. These seats are known for their comfort and often come with power adjustment features.
  • Types of Seats Available: Bucket seats with power adjustments and lumbar support are common. Leather options are available in higher trims.
  • Modification Requirements: Some modification is usually required, including fabricating or adapting brackets to fit the seat tracks to the floor pan. Electrical wiring may also be needed for power seats.
5. Ford Excursion (2000-2005)
  • Compatibility: The Ford Excursion’s seats are a good option for those looking for large, comfortable seats with a similar rugged style. These seats are designed for a full-size SUV, making them well-suited for the F-Series.
  • Types of Seats Available: Large bucket seats with power adjustments and built-in armrests are common. These seats often come in leather and offer superior comfort for long drives.
  • Modification Requirements: These seats typically require custom brackets or adapters to fit properly in a bullnose truck. Electrical wiring for power seats is also necessary.
6. Aftermarket Seats
  • Compatibility: If you’re looking for a truly custom setup, aftermarket seats are widely available. Companies like Corbeau, Recaro, and Procar offer seats designed for universal fitment, with a range of options tailored to off-roading, racing, or comfort.
  • Types of Seats Available: Aftermarket options include racing seats, off-road seats, and luxury seats, available in various materials like cloth, vinyl, and leather. Some even feature heating and cooling options.
  • Modification Requirements: Installing aftermarket seats generally requires custom brackets and adapters. Many manufacturers offer vehicle-specific brackets that make installation easier, but some customization is often necessary.

Where to Source Seats for a Bullnose Truck

Once you’ve decided on the type of seat you want, the next step is finding a reliable source. There are several avenues to explore:

1. Salvage Yards
  • Pros: Salvage yards are a treasure trove for finding OEM seats from later model F-Series trucks, Broncos, and Explorers. You can often find seats in good condition at a fraction of the cost of new or reupholstered seats.
  • Cons: Availability can be hit or miss, and you’ll need to inspect the seats carefully for wear, damage, or missing components.
2. Online Marketplaces
  • Pros: Websites like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace are excellent for finding seats from private sellers or salvage yards across the country. These platforms offer a wide selection and the convenience of browsing from home.
  • Cons: Shipping costs can be high due to the size and weight of seats. Additionally, you’ll need to rely on photos and descriptions, so there’s a risk of the seats not being in the expected condition.
3. Aftermarket Suppliers
  • Pros: If you’re considering aftermarket seats, companies like Summit Racing, JEGS, and Corbeau offer a wide range of options. These seats are brand new and often come with warranties.
  • Cons: Aftermarket seats can be expensive, and installation may require significant modifications or additional parts like custom brackets.
4. Upholstery Shops
  • Pros: Upholstery shops can reupholster your existing seats, providing a like-new appearance while retaining the original frame and mounting points. This option allows for customization in terms of fabric, color, and padding.
  • Cons: Reupholstering can be costly, especially if you’re opting for premium materials or custom stitching. The process can also take several weeks, depending on the shop’s workload.
5. Specialized Forums and Clubs
  • Pros: Forums like FTE (Ford Truck Enthusiasts) and various Facebook groups dedicated to Ford trucks often have members selling parts, including seats. These communities are also a great resource for advice and tips on seat swaps.
  • Cons: Availability is limited to what members are selling, and prices can vary widely. Shipping and communication with sellers can also be more complex than buying from a business.

Considerations for Reupholstering Existing Seats

If you’re attached to your original seats but want to improve their comfort and appearance, reupholstering is a great option. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

1. Condition of Seat Frames
  • Before reupholstering, inspect the seat frames for rust, cracks, or damage. If the frames are in poor condition, they may need to be repaired or replaced before reupholstering.
2. Foam Padding
  • The original foam in bullnose seats is likely to have deteriorated over time. Replacing the foam with high-density or memory foam can dramatically improve comfort. Some upholstery shops also offer custom contouring for better support.
3. Material Choices
  • When reupholstering, you have a wide range of material options, including vinyl, cloth, and leather. Each material has its pros and cons:
    • Vinyl: Durable and easy to clean, but can get hot in the sun and may crack over time.
    • Cloth: Comfortable and available in a wide range of colors and patterns, but can stain more easily.
    • Leather: Premium feel and appearance, easy to clean, but more expensive and requires regular maintenance.
4. Custom Stitching and Design
  • Reupholstering allows for custom stitching patterns, logos, or even contrasting colors. This is a great way to add a personal touch to your truck’s interior.
5. Cost Considerations
  • The cost of reupholstering can vary widely depending on the materials used and the complexity of the design. Expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $2,000 or more for a complete reupholstery job.

Adding Modern Seats: Pros and Cons

While reupholstering original seats preserves the classic look of your bullnose truck, installing modern seats can significantly improve comfort, safety, and functionality. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros:
  • Improved Comfort: Modern seats typically offer better padding, lumbar support, and adjustability, making long drives more comfortable.
  • Integrated Features: Many modern seats come with built-in features like seat heaters, power adjustments, and even cooling systems, enhancing the driving experience.
  • Safety Upgrades: Newer seats often include integrated seat belts, side airbags, and other safety features that weren’t available in the 1980s.
Cons:
  • Modification Requirements: Modern seats often require significant modifications to fit into a bullnose truck. This can include custom brackets, electrical wiring for power functions, and potential alterations to the floor pan.
  • Aesthetics: While modern seats can improve comfort, they may not match the classic aesthetic of the bullnose interior, which could detract from the truck’s vintage appeal.
  • Cost: Modern seats, especially those with advanced features, can be expensive. Additionally, the cost of installation, including any necessary modifications, can add up quickly.
Installation Considerations:
  • Mounting Brackets: Modern seats usually require custom mounting brackets to fit properly in a bullnose truck. Some aftermarket companies offer pre-fabricated brackets, but custom fabrication may be necessary for a perfect fit.
  • Electrical Work: If you’re installing power seats, you’ll need to run wiring from the seats to the truck’s electrical system. This may require tapping into existing circuits or adding new ones.
  • Seat Belt Integration: If the modern seats have integrated seat belts, you’ll need to ensure they are properly anchored to meet safety standards. This may involve reinforcing the floor pan or using existing mounting points.
Cost and Difficulty of Upgrading Seats in a Bullnose Ford Truck (1980-1986)

Cost:

Upgrading the seats in a bullnose Ford truck (1980-1986) can vary widely in cost depending on the type of seats you choose, whether you source them from a donor vehicle, purchase aftermarket options, or opt for custom reupholstery. Here’s a general cost breakdown:

  • Donor Vehicle Seats (from other trucks or vehicles): $100 to $500 per seat, depending on condition, type (bucket vs. bench), and where they are sourced (junkyard vs. online marketplaces).
  • Aftermarket Seats: $300 to $1,000 per seat, depending on brand, materials (vinyl, cloth, leather), and features (manual vs. power adjustments).
  • Custom Reupholstery: $500 to $2,000 for reupholstering the original seats, depending on the material chosen (vinyl, cloth, leather) and the complexity of the design.
  • Seat Brackets and Mounting Hardware: $50 to $200, required if the new seats do not bolt directly into the existing mounts.
  • Professional Installation (if not DIY): $100 to $500, depending on labor rates and the complexity of fitting the seats.
  • Additional Customization (heated seats, lumbar support, etc.): $100 to $500, depending on the features added.

Overall, the total cost of upgrading the seats in your bullnose truck can range from $300 to $4,200 or more, depending on the seats you choose, whether you reupholster the originals or buy aftermarket, and if you opt for professional installation.

Difficulty:

The difficulty of upgrading the seats in your bullnose truck can vary from easy to moderate, depending on the specific seats you choose and whether they are a direct fit or require custom mounting. Key factors affecting the difficulty include:

  • Mechanical Skills: Basic mechanical skills are required to remove the old seats and install the new ones. If the new seats require custom brackets or modifications, additional skills in fabrication or metalworking may be needed.
  • Tools and Equipment: You’ll need basic hand tools, such as wrenches, sockets, and possibly a drill or cutting tool if modifications are needed. If reupholstering, you may need specialized tools like a staple gun and upholstery tools.
  • Time Commitment: The time required can range from a couple of hours for a simple swap to several days if reupholstering or making extensive modifications.
  • Potential Challenges: Challenges may include ensuring proper fitment of new seats, adapting or fabricating mounting brackets, and aligning the seats for comfort and safety. Reupholstering can be particularly challenging if you’re not experienced in upholstery work.

Given the variability in complexity, this upgrade can be tackled by most DIY enthusiasts with basic tools and patience. However, if custom modifications are needed, or if you’re reupholstering the seats, professional help may be advisable to ensure a high-quality result.

Final Thoughts on Upgrading Seats in a Bullnose Ford Truck

Upgrading the seats in your 1980-1986 bullnose Ford truck can significantly enhance your driving experience, whether you’re restoring the truck to its original condition, customizing it for show, or simply making it more comfortable for daily use. With a variety of options available, from direct-fit seats from later model F-Series trucks to fully customized aftermarket seats, there’s a solution for every budget and style.

Before making your final decision, consider the following:

  • Your Budget: How much are you willing to spend on seats, including the cost of the seats themselves, any necessary modifications, and installation?
  • Intended Use: Are you looking for seats that will improve comfort on long drives, seats that match the truck’s original appearance, or seats that offer modern features and safety?
  • Installation Complexity: Do you have the skills and tools to handle any necessary modifications, or will you need to hire a professional to install the seats?

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the best seats for your bullnose truck and enjoy the many benefits that come with a more comfortable and functional interior.

If you want more specific information on Bullnose Ford Trucks, check out my YouTube Channel!

For more information on Bullnose Trucks and Broncos, you can also check out the BullnoseFord SubReddit or Gary’s Garagemahal, both are excellent resources.