Swapping auto console for buddy seat

[wasco]

i haven't started the work yet, but while pricing out the parts to convert from an auto to manual trans, I decided to go without a console because 1. I didn't want to hack up the original auto console for the four speed and 2. Converting the auto console to use with a manual trans on a '68 is EXPENSIVE! Now I'm thinking it would be nice to have a buddy seat between the buckets for an arm rest. Does anyone have a picture of this setup or advise against it? I think it might look odd with nothing at all between the seats.

 

[NJRR]

I did the exact same thing when I converted my 70 RR from a console auto to a 4 speed.
The buddy seat was a perfect arm rest and looked much better, IMO, than the console. I sold off the console to offset my conversion cost too. Go for it !!!

 

[wasco]

Thanks for the confirmation! Now I'll start looking for a buddy seat. I had the idea when I saw a perfect one at a swap meet, and should have bought it , but didn't. Oh well. I should sell the console to offset the cost of the conversion - how much does a complet auto console in good condition go for these days?

 

[NJRR]

Thanks for the confirmation! Now I'll start looking for a buddy seat. I had the idea when I saw a perfect one at a swap meet, and should have bought it , but didn't. Oh well. I should sell the console to offset the cost of the conversion - how much does a complet auto console in good condition go for these days?

I think I got about $500 for mine with 2 hairline cracks in the top rear, usual place.

 

[wasco]

The reproduction top plate, the side trim and carpet and the boot for the shifter - man, does all that add up! I really like the looks of the console but a buddy seat and a non-console floor boot will only set me back less than $200. Decision made!

 

[NJRR]

This will work.

http://www.forbbodiesonly.com/moparforum/threads/1971-74-white-buddy-seat.131010/

 

[wasco]

I just won this one for under $50 shipped! Hope it fits - looks about right. But thanks for looking out for me.

 

[Billccm]

I'd like to add a buddy seat to my 68 Road Runner. Any information on how yours worked out? How about mounting? I assume brackets and other hardware required?

Thanks for any help.

 

[NJRR]

I'd like to add a buddy seat to my 68 Road Runner. Any information on how yours worked out? How about mounting? I assume brackets and other hardware required?

Thanks for any help.

There are just 2 brackets that have to get welded to the hump and 4 bolts. Do you have a console? If yes, those brackets have to come out.

 

[Billccm]

No console no nothing. Just a carpeted trans hump.

 

[NJRR]

So then it's just a matter of lifting the carpet and welding the brackets in. here's a pic of what it looks like. After i just slit the carpet and fit it over the bracket.

 

[Bruzilla]

I thought you 4-speed guys were obsessed with having your hand on the shifter. What's this arm rest nonsense?