Front Seat Cover Kit (Pair)

With only minor updates made in terms of the interior trim and upholstery, the Triumph TR5 and Triumph TR250 models continued very much from where the TR4″A” had left off. Much of the internal upholstery parts remained the same; with only noticeable changes made to the Seats. Akin to the preceding models, the framework was a tubular steel construction with a tipping (forward) mechanism, but still no allowance for reclining backward – but as per the earlier TR4A models – they had mounted seat runners allowing for a forward/backward adjustment of the seat itself. The backrest squab framework differed significantly to the earlier TR4/4A models – with an interlocking wire framework attached to either side to form side bolsters. This in turn changed the construction of the backrest cover assembly which incorporated a 1″ (inch) horseshoe foam inside the the cover itself to accommodate for these wire side bolsters. The horseshoe on the backrest continued to feature the “handed” shape allowing for the metal hood frame cover pass by without hitting the corners of the seat framework – with the outside corners being more sharply shaped than the inside corners which formed a more gentle curve. The same rubber diaphragms and backrest webbing strips were used as per the earlier models to act as lumber “springs” – with the foam padding kit being updated significantly to allow for the redesign of the frame and covers. It is worth noting that for these TR5/250 models – the backrest squab featured a soft upholster rear cover, unlike the earlier models which used a trimmed hardboard panel.

Following on from the manufacturing processes adopted for the TR4A model – the TR5 and 250 models continued using Vinyl (Ambla) for its seat materials, with the majority of the cars leaving in Vinyl (Ambla), and only a few with Leather covers. It is worth noting that these “Leather” seats would have most likely only have been supplied in Leather on the facings of the seat, with Vinyl backs and surrounding areas. This is commonly referred to as “LeatherFaced” and should not be confused with Full Leather, which JSM can also offer. For the Ambla (Vinyl) versions, Triumph embraced the radio/high frequency (RF/HF) technology used for some of the interior trim panels to add an embossed “diamond” pattern to their pleated panels. It is worth noting that this pattern only covered about two-thirds of the pleated panel, ending toward the bottom of the backrest squab, and toward the very front bolster area of the cushion base; presumably due to limitations with the size/design of their brass tooling. For all Leather/LeatherFaced seats – the pleats would have remained plain with no embossing featured. In keeping with the previous models – the Piping/Beading was originally supplied in White for the large majority of the cars that left the production line. This White piping would only be applicable to the “outside” sections of the Seats, with the inner horseshoe and side sections made in a matching colour to the main trim colour. Over the years, we have noted several original trim TR250 models and some TR5 models using same colour piping as the main trim throughout – and so, although not clearly documented – it is safe to assume that a number of cars left with this specification. This is especially noted for cars with Shadow Blue and Light Tan interior trims.

Templated from the original factory line covers, John has owned various TRs over the years – including a number of TR5s – so these interior trim and seat upholstery kits are tried and tested to great success on his own cars. John Skinner Ltd is one of the only firms to offer the correct RF/HF tooling to replicate the embossed “diamond” pattern – and to acknowledge the correct finishing position of this pattern on the pleats. This unrivalled knowledge and attention to details is a testament to our dedication to restoring these cars to the highest levels and has led us to become the industry benchmark in quality and finish when restoring your Triumph TR5/TR250. Offering made-to-order kits from the widest range of colours and material options on the market – JSM can cater for all requirements whether it be to original factory-line specifications or a more bespoke look – and they arrive ready to be installed to your original seat metal framework by either a professional trimmer, or yourself.

You may wish to consider our seat padding kits, spring base cushion units, diaphragms and webbing kits to achieve the best results.

DETAILS

• Available in Leather or Vinyl (Ambla), or a mixture of these materials.
• Two options of automotive-grade leather available to choose from – “grained” or “smooth” surface finish.
• Genuine “tuck & roll” fluted pleats, into 18mm scrim-backed foam, creating definition in each pleat.
• The piping/beading is made using Leathercloth (Vynide) where available, resulting in a superior looking finish.
• Includes embossed “diamond” pattern on pleated panels as per original specifications – for Vinyl (Ambla) kits only.
• Includes pre-cut and shaped horseshoe foam on backrest cover – as per original spec – which many other firms do not include.

Why JSM?

• Made in England, only 50 miles away from the original production line.
• We source only the highest quality raw materials to manufacture our products – including leather from Italy and Scotland.
• John Skinners offer the widest range of colour options on the market – including all the correct original colour combinations, as well as many more custom shades.
• Worldwide material and colour samples service is available upon request, to ensure you get the look and finish your car deserves.
• Our kits are manufactured using the same methods and templates that we have used to great success for 40+ years. Rest assured, we know they fit!
• JSM has contributed to various notable Triumph restorations including TS01, and the much-publicised Triumph TR2 “Jabbeke“ MVC575 restoration project. We also worked closely with Mark Macy of Macy’s Garage (USA) on his wife’s TR4 – becoming the only Triumph TR to ever score the perfect 100-point score in the TRA Concours D’Elegance – back in 2018. Mark Macys own TR4 came in second place, at the same show – also with JSM trimmed fitted.
• Access to help and advice when it comes time to fit these re-trim kits – we have been making and fitting these same parts for a long time – we know all the tricks, and we are more than happy to assist you or your trimmer should you get stuck. As noted above, John himself has used this part on a number of his own TRs, so we are well versed in the fitment process.