I have an 85 IROC-Z. Took it to the upholsterer to replace the welting on the drivers seat back and headrest. He said that he could not get the material off the headrest to repair it. The metal shaft goes thru the material and it cannot be removed.

Anyone know how this can be done?

 

Very carefully. Been a few years since I've messed with one, but it's possible to work the cover off the headrest.