One of the finest fragrances in any automobile is that new-car smell. We can't think of anything better than that scent, except of course for that new-car smell with leather. But not everyone can afford leather from the factory, or perhaps, they are looking for higher quality and more of a custom look than what is offered from the factory. For these customers, AutoLeathers.com, the Internet sales division of Katzkin's Leather Interiors Incorporated, offers custom-made leather kits.
Katzkin has been supplying leather interior kits for autos for 20 years and is the undisputed industry leader. Katzkin only uses the finest Italian hides from its very own tannery, which meet or exceed the OEM specifications for leather interiors. Within 24 hours of arrival at the Katzkin factory, the imported hides are staged to allow them to breath, removing any wrinkles from shipping. The next step is the most important, since each hide is hand-inspected under special lights by a trained specialist. These specialists detect any flaws or imperfections in the hides, such as tick bites and scars. When the hide is processed, these imperfections are eliminated, allowing the company to adhere to its strict quality standards. Using a combination of hand and computer-aided cutting, Katzkin is able to produce a precise product every time. Once the pieces are finished, they are sent through specialized production cells of skilled assemblers. These craftsmen and women sew and assemble the kits, preparing them for sale. Throughout the process, several quality checks ensure a quality fit and finish in every application.
With more than 50 colors, several different types of natural and synthetic hides, color stitching as an option, and more than 1,600 patterns fitting almost any car or truck on the road, AutoLeathers.com offers a wide range of customized choices that can turn your cloth chairs in to supple leather thrones. Follow along as we guide you through an overview of the installation process on our '03 Super Duty Crew Cab.
Here is what our cozy Ford...
Here is what our cozy Ford chairs looked like before the install. While comfortable from the factory, they were a bit boring to look at and not very luxurious.
The rear bench was just as...
The rear bench was just as unremarkable as the fronts.
First, the seats were removed...
First, the seats were removed from the vehicle. The seats were easily removed with the right handtools.
To access the rear bolts on...
To access the rear bolts on the front chairs, the seat was slid forward.
The rear bench was heavy and...
The rear bench was heavy and required an extra hand to remove from the vehicle.
At this step, it would be...
At this step, it would be a good time to consider your switch to shag or other customization, such as audio equipment or sound-deadening.
Once the seats were removed,...
Once the seats were removed, the stock covers were unsnapped.
Before removing the cover,...
Before removing the cover, the seatback lever was removed.
Tools will be needed to remove...
Tools will be needed to remove the rear bench armrest, if your vehicle is so equipped.
The armrest was separated...
The armrest was separated from the seat and set aside.
Next, the factory cover was...
Next, the factory cover was removed from the rear seatback.
The rear seat bottom was then...
The rear seat bottom was then separated from the seat frame.