Power Seat Motor

Remove and replace the power seat motor assembly on a 1966 Chevrolet Corvette, including electrical connections and mounting hardware.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Power seat motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or compatible replacement
• Electrical connector (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Wire terminals (if needed) × 1 — Standard automotive crimp terminals

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect negative battery cable
3. Move seat to full forward position for better access to rear mounting points
4. Remove any floor mats or debris from around seat base
5. Allow adequate lighting and workspace around the seat area

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove seat track covers
   Remove the plastic or metal covers on both sides of the seat track. These are typically held by Phillips screws or trim clips. Remove 2 screws per side to expose the seat track mounting hardware and access to the motor area.
2. 2

   Disconnect seat wiring harness
   Locate the main wiring harness connector underneath the seat. Separate the bullet/spade connectors or unscrew the terminal connections to disconnect the power seat motor wiring. If multiple connectors are present, label them for correct reassembly. The power seat motor connector is typically a 4-pin or 6-pin connector depending on seat configuration. Verified detail (1966 Corvette power seat systems used simple bullet-type or screw-terminal connectors of the era, not modern multi-pin push-tab connectors with 'release tabs.' Describing a 4-pin/6-pin click connector is era-inappropriate for a 1966 vehicle.): Locate the power seat motor wiring underneath the seat. Disconnect the period-correct bullet/spade connectors or terminal block feeding the motor. If multiple wires or connectors are present, label them for correct reassembly. Note that 1966-era connectors are typically individual bullet/spade terminals rather than a single multi-pin connector.
3. 3

   Remove seat mounting bolts
   Remove the seat track mounting bolts that secure the seat assembly to the floor pan, keeping track of the count and locations. Verify bolt head size with a wrench before applying force; these are typically 1/2" or 9/16" head bolts on this era Corvette. Keep track of any washers or spacers under the mounting points as these are critical for proper seat height and stability.
4. 4

   Lift and reposition seat
   Carefully lift the seat assembly and move it rearward or out of the vehicle if workspace allows. The seat can be heavy (50-70 pounds), so use proper lifting technique. If removing completely from vehicle, have an assistant help. Place seat upside down on a protected surface (blanket or cardboard) for motor access.
5. 5

   Locate power seat motor
   With the seat inverted or tilted, locate the power seat motor assembly mounted to the seat track mechanism. The motor is mounted to the seat frame and drives the track adjusters via flexible drive cables. Verify the exact motor location and drive cable routing against the GM 1966 Corvette service manual before disconnecting.
6. 6

   Disconnect motor drive cable
   Disconnect the flexible drive cable or gear linkage from the motor output shaft. This typically requires removing a retaining clip or set screw securing the cable to the motor. Note the orientation of the cable connection for proper reassembly. On some motors, the drive mechanism may be integral and not require disconnection.
7. 7

   Remove motor mounting hardware
   Remove the bolts securing the power seat motor to the seat frame bracket, noting the exact count and locations. Verify bolt head size before applying force. Support the motor while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling. Check for any ground wire connections that may be attached to one of the mounting bolts. Support the motor while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling. Check for any ground wire connections that may be attached to one of the mounting bolts.
8. 8

   Remove old motor
   Remove the power seat motor assembly from the seat frame. Inspect the mounting bracket for damage, corrosion, or worn mounting points. Clean the mounting area with a wire brush if rust or corrosion is present. Verify the drive cable or gear mechanism moves freely and is not binding.
9. 9

   Prepare new motor
   Unpack the replacement power seat motor and verify it matches the original in mounting pattern, shaft orientation, and connector type. If the motor includes a new drive cable or gear assembly, prepare it for installation. Apply a small amount of grease to the output shaft splines if not pre-lubricated.
10. 10

    Install new motor
    Position the new power seat motor on the mounting bracket, aligning the mounting holes. Install the 3 mounting bolts finger-tight. If a ground wire was present on the original motor, ensure it is reconnected to the appropriate mounting bolt. Tighten mounting bolts snugly but do not overtighten, as this can crack the motor housing.
11. 11

    Connect drive mechanism
    Reconnect the flexible drive cable or gear linkage to the motor output shaft. Ensure the cable is fully seated and install the retaining clip or set screw. Manually rotate the motor shaft slightly to verify the drive mechanism engages properly and moves the seat track smoothly.
12. 12

    Reinstall seat assembly
    Return the seat to its upright position and carefully place it back into the vehicle, aligning the mounting bolt holes with the floor pan. Install the 4 seat mounting bolts with any original washers and spacers in their correct positions. Tighten bolts evenly to ensure the seat sits level on the floor.
13. 13

    Reconnect electrical connections
    Reconnect the power seat motor wiring, ensuring each bullet/spade terminal or screw connection is fully seated and secure. Verify all other seat electrical connections (if any were disconnected) are properly reconnected.
14. 14

    Reinstall seat track covers
    Reinstall the seat track covers on both sides of the seat, securing them with the original screws or trim clips. Ensure covers are seated properly and do not interfere with seat movement.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect the negative battery cable
2. Verify all fasteners are tight and no tools or parts are left under the seat
3. Ensure seat track covers are properly secured and aligned

Verification

• Turn ignition to accessory position and test power seat operation in both directions (forward and rearward)
• Listen for smooth motor operation without grinding, binding, or unusual noises
• Verify seat moves through full range of travel and stops properly at both end limits
• Check that seat mounting is secure with no movement or wobble when pushing on seat back
• Test seat switch operation from both positions if dual controls are present
• Verify no electrical issues or blown fuses after testing

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