1. Preparation:
* Safety First: Always disconnect the negative terminal of your battery before starting any work on your car's electrical system.
* Tools: You'll likely need a screwdriver (Phillips head is common), possibly a wrench (depending on bolt types), and potentially a socket set. Have a helper if the seat is heavy.
2. Accessing the Seat:
* Check for obvious fasteners: Look along the bottom and top of the seat back and seat bottom for bolts, screws, or clips. They're often located near where the seat meets the floor and back panel. Sometimes, they're hidden under plastic covers or trim pieces—carefully pry these off if necessary.
* Lift up seat cushions: Often the bottom cushion is separate from the seat back. There may be clips or hinges connecting them; these will need to be detached first.
3. Removing the Seat Back:
* Unfasten the seat back: Once you've located the fasteners, carefully remove them. They might be bolts, screws, or clips. Take your time and avoid forcing anything. Take pictures as you go if you're unsure how things go back together.
* Lift the seat back out: After removing all fasteners, carefully lift the seat back out of the car. It might be somewhat heavy, so get a helper if necessary.
4. Removing the Seat Bottom (if applicable):
* Locate and detach the bottom seat: The bottom cushion might simply lift out, or it could have fasteners similar to those on the seat back. Again, look carefully for bolts, screws, or clips.
* Lift and remove the seat bottom: Once all fasteners are removed, carefully lift out the bottom cushion.
5. Putting it all back together:
Reassembly is simply the reverse of removal. Make sure all fasteners are secured correctly before driving.
Important Considerations:
* Variations: There might be slight differences in the way the back seat is secured depending on options like bucket seats versus a bench seat.
* Rust and seized fasteners: Older cars are prone to rust, which can make removing fasteners difficult. Use penetrating oil if necessary to loosen seized bolts or screws. If a bolt breaks, you may need to drill it out.
* Consult a repair manual: A Haynes or Chilton repair manual for your specific 1973 Chevrolet Nova model will provide detailed diagrams and instructions for removing and reinstalling the back seat. This is the most reliable source of information.
Remember to always prioritize safety. If you're uncomfortable performing this task yourself, it's best to seek the assistance of a qualified mechanic.
