I need to replace the seats in a CJ7. This is my first jeep project, so I am trying to do some homework prior to spending all my time and money learning some lessons the hard way.

I can not tell if the current seats are replacement seats or the original seats that maybe had been re-covered. The risers appear to be in pretty good shape and I planned on not replacing them, however, I spoke with a rep at Bestop and they said that their seats would not work on my risers. I would have assumed that seats are pretty simple, standard products, so I am not sure why they would suggest purchasing new risers, unless that is just a sales tactic.

Unfortunately, there are no retail stores in Houston (maybe there are and I have not found one yet) that sell Bestop seats, so I am having a problem determining from an internet picture if a) the seat will work with my current risers or b) if I even like the seat material / color. Anything will be better than the ones that I currently have, but has anyone replaced seats in a CJ7 and do you have any recommendations on manufacturers or brands? The seats that I am evaluating are the bestot vinly (approx $140 each) that do not recline or the bestop aquasport (neoproene) fr about $260 each. These recline and might have a nicer feel.

Does anyone have an opinion on this? Are the aquasport seats worth the extra$$?

Thanks for your feedback. Also, if anyone knows of a retail store in Houston that has seats in stock or a store that they would recommend, please let me know.

I have an older 89 YJ with replacement seats that are not designed to recline. They have been beaten so badly that they recline very easily now. It might be a good idea to get the higher quality seat.

Your seat brackets my have a different bolt pattern than the seat you are looking at buying. Have you looked at JC Whitney and Summit Racing?

I would go to a junk yard and unbolt a couple of good looking seats from some newer cars and compare that to your seat brackets bolt pattern. I've known some guys to adapt newer leather heated seats from mini vans with just a piece of steel as an adapter. A junk yard seat might be higher quality than a store bought seat and before you buy it, you can at least inspect it.