Topic: 1976 Corvette Seatbelt Removal
in Forum: C3 Interior
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Former Member
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Champaign, IL - USA
Joined: 1/1/2008
Posts: 7
Vette(s): 1976 Corvette Stingray L-48, Torch Red Pearl paint with Firethorn Interior.
I finally started removing my interior to replace the carpet. I got the storage compartment out and done last night, and it looks great. My next chore was removal of the seatbelts to start on the rear compartment. The problem is that the seatbelt mount bolt up by the top of the seat is so tight that I can't get it out. Is there some trick to doing this? What have others done to get this thing out? It is driving my crazy, and it my only stumbling block.
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Lifetime MemberModerator
Duncanville, TX - USA
Joined: 11/8/2003
Posts: 20214
Vette(s): #1-1974 L-48 4spd Cp Med Red Metallic/Black deluxe int w/AC/tilt/tele./p/w-p/b/
Am-Fm/map light National/Regional/Chapter NCRS "Top Flight"
#2-1985 Bright Red/Carmine Cp.L-98/auto
Member: NCRS, NCRS Texas, Corvette Legends of Texas
Try "massaging" the end of the bolt head with a hammer. Hit the end(head) of the bolt square on. Don't beat the crap out of it, just a good, firm whack..or ten.
Also spray some penetrating oil around it.
These bolts are fairly tight for a reason, so have patience...it'll come out.
Also spray some penetrating oil around it.
These bolts are fairly tight for a reason, so have patience...it'll come out.
Joel Adams
C3VR Lifetime Member #56 
My Link 
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"Money can't buy happiness -- but somehow it's more comforting to cry in a CORVETTE than in a Kia"
[QUOTE=Adams' Apple]...Also spray some penetrating oil around it.... [/QUOTE]
Ditto for both ends of the lap belts if you are planning on taking those out.
Current issue of Corvette Enthusiast has an article on seat belt replacement and how difficult the bolts can be.
Former Member
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Champaign, IL - USA
Joined: 1/1/2008
Posts: 7
Vette(s): 1976 Corvette Stingray L-48, Torch Red Pearl paint with Firethorn Interior.
Thanks. I finally got three of them to come out with brute force. The really stubborn one is the seat belt retractor bold on the passenger side. I soaked it with PB Blaster and will try again tomorrow. If that doesn't work, I'll cut the old carpet out, and cut a slit when installing the new carpet and take my time when to hide the cut.
Former Member
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Champaign, IL - USA
Joined: 1/1/2008
Posts: 7
Vette(s): 1976 Corvette Stingray L-48, Torch Red Pearl paint with Firethorn Interior.
After soaking with PB Blaster all night, I tried to get the bolt loose again. The problem was that the six point socket was slipping up and off of the bolt. I tried a twelve point, and it gripped well and the bolt came out. Now I'm cooking with gas.
Lifetime MemberManteca, CA - USA
Joined: 11/20/2005
Posts: 3623
Vette(s): 1978,two tone,Metalic Rootbeer & gold
1975 L48 4 speed
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Oogie's Stingray, best way to get them out I found was use a 1/2" impact drill and deep sockets. I used a electric one but they also make air. If you don't have access to one you may be able to rent one plus sockets. Or if ya got the money invest in one. Sears has good ones and they aren't too expensive sockets are a little pricey I think its worth it. Great for aroud the shop for lug bolts or any other tough bolt extraction. Just be aware once your buddies know you got one they will borrow lots. Just my thoughts thanks.
sgm2004
Hey - Thanks for the comments on impact wrenches. It reminded me I need to get mine back from a buddy that borrowed it....
C3: 1979 Corvette Coupe, Auto, L-48, Red/Doeskin (my wife's fave);
C4s: 1986 C4 coupe (SCCA road race car), satin black, 4+3, Z51 package, L-98; & 1993 C4 coupe, white, 6-speed, LT-1.
in Forum: C3 Interior
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