I have an 88 Formula and it was in an accident many years ago. For whatever reason, they fixed the body, but not the driver's seat, which is in a permanent semi-recline position. The seat does have the headrests that go up and down. I want to reupholster the seats (they need it) but before I do, I want to know:
1. Is this common? If so, is it fixable?
2. Is it just better to find a car in a salvage yard and grab those seats, or find them online?
3. I want to keep it stock, but are there seats that look the same, but are stronger? -or- should I be looking for a different seat?

The car is sentimental, (my dad was the original owner) but it has 250K miles on it, so while I want to restore it, and keep it correct, I'm not looking for concourse.

Thank you for your help - you guys rock!

 

You can replace just the recline assembly which is bolted to the seat frame.The recline handle is part of that assembly.You'll see it easily when/if you remove the old upholstery.