Replace Arm Rest
 

I just picked up a 98 SE and the center arm rest has seen better days. Besides the destroyed cup holder (I know I can replace that by itself), its a bit worn and when you push it up between the seats, the top opens...not a good thing.

I was looking to replace this.

Does anyone know how difficult it is to remove and replace it?
Is there a link to an online dissambly guide or something of that nature online (free if possible)?

Thanks,
Erik

Please elaborate, it sounds like you have the cloth couch and not leather/cloth buckets?

Ah, sorry. Yes, cloth. I'm not sure if they are all the same, but;

I have the shifter on the tree, so the two seats are seperated only by the arm rest. The arm rest folds up to essentially make a third seat in the front. The arm rest opens at the top and has a pocket of sorts with a cup holder that folds out.

I can attach a picture if necissary.

Thanks,
Erik

I knew exactly what you were talking about, but have never taken mine off, so couldn't help you..yet. ;)

I have the same thing...cloth bench seats with the armrest. I also had problems with the latch on it. In my case it became stuck shut, so I modified the latch.

IIRC, there are two Torx screws holding the armrest in place, but I'll have to look at mine this weekend and get back with you on Monday if nobody else does before then.

Thanks. I just don't want to mess up anything with the power seat. My power seat has the 3 buttons, not the most expensive power seat option (as per the manual) but the basic power one.

Erik

Unless you remove the seat to work on this, you should have no issues. All the power and seat wiring is right under and at the controls of the seat only. ;)

To remove your seat, there are 4 points where the seat frame is held to the body (13mm and 15mm nuts) and then a seat belt bolt (T47 torx). Tilting the seat back and disconnect the power to the seat. Overall, it's easy and probably not necessary to work on the armrest.

Great. Going to the dealer today to get an estimate on a new arm rest...then I can look at junkyards to see if I can find one in decent shape. I also need a keyless entry remote, I have the quote on ebay, now to find out what the dealer wants for it.

Thanks everyone.
Erik

For that armrest also check with.
www.gmpartsdirect.com They are usually about 1/2 of the dealer cost. Then they add on shipping.

However..even with shipping an example for you.
O2 sensor for my car.
Dealer $120
GMPD $80

Even after shipping I still saved $40

And...I'm pretty sure the armrest removal does not require seat removal, but like I said, I will have to verify this.

BillBoost37 - Thanks for the link.

When I get the part number from the dealer I'll post it so in case others need it as well.

Thanks,
Erik