[MAXIMUMBOB]

I had mentioned in a post a few years ago that my 86 560sl came with an orthopedic seat option. Big deal I think it was 15 or 20 bucks. No one seemed to know anything about it. I'm back to being curious as to how it works. Picture enclosed shows an adjustable strap on the back that no matter how tight I try to get it I don't see much difference. Anyone have this option and figure it out?

 

[donfenn]

I had mentioned in a post a few years ago that my 86 560sl came with an orthopedic seat option. Big deal I think it was 15 or 20 bucks. No one seemed to know anything about it. I'm back to being curious as to how it works. Picture enclosed shows an adjustable strap on the back that no matter how tight I try to get it I don't see much difference. Anyone have this option and figure it out?

I have it on one of my 560sl cars.. I also have the window sticker showing it as an $80 factory option.

You are correct that it is hardly noticeable. It is really simple system, and not really very effective... Within the seat back there is a 8-10 inch wide fabric pad with the straps attached on each end -- So the concept seems to be that you can pull it up or down by pulling straps on seat back to move pad to desired area of back for support... However, it is hard to feel any difference.

:winkIt seems to be a relatively rare option-- and it also seems somewhat worthless.

 

[MAXIMUMBOB]

Hi Don
You're right it was 80 bucks. I didn't remember but new it was an insignificant amount. I had hoped it would increase the effectiveness of the lumbar support (I have a bad back) not just move it around. Guess it's worth what someone paid for it. You can find a lumbar adjuster in the cheapest vehicle today but in 1986 what we have must have been cutting edge ?

 

[donfenn]

Hi Don
You're right it was 80 bucks. I didn't remember but new it was an insignificant amount. I had hoped it would increase the effectiveness of the lumbar support (I have a bad back) not just move it around. Guess it's worth what someone paid for it. You can find a lumbar adjuster in the cheapest vehicle today but in 1986 what we have must have been cutting edge ?

I had my seats reupholstered -- and had the choice of leaving it out and having smooth seat backs, but I had it reinstalled for authenticity, especially since I have the original window sticker showing it on my car...

It is a rarity, if nothing else