Did the ABS plastic arm rest come factory in any of the Cutlass from 68 to 72? I was looking on ebay and have seen a ton of plastic repops but seen some used ones as well. 1 of them said that it came out of a 71 cutlass so was curious as I have only seen the metal backed with vinyl covered arm rests in cutlass.

To be honest, I would almost rather just have the ABS arm rest. Seems every pair of vinyl/metal type are rusted or the cover is in poor condition from water leaks/age etc.

Would there be anything besides aesthetics that would stop me from putting plastic arm rests in the rear and then using regular vinyl covered upper covers and ear muffs?

 

Not sure if these were ever used in an Olds but I don't know of any reason they couldn't be used. Used in other similar vintage Abodies that use the same mounting points

If you like vinyl, but hate the rust part, you could always get some ABS versions and cover them with new vinyl covers....sort of the "best of both worlds" if the original vinyl look is something you also want.

I agree..those are kind of cool...the ultimate "lightweight" piece. Save a few ounces on the interior!

 

Are you refering to the armrest BASE, or the PAD that screws onto the base? I'm going to paint the current vinyl covered pads that I have, as they fit the original base. The currently sold poly-urethane molded pads are a 1/4" shorter than the original bases, so you have to use the re-pop bases if you want a perfect fit. The metal on the original pads can be cleaned up and rust protected. Chumley All I have ever seen on the base is plastic. Also I just realized from rereading your post that you are talking about the REAR armrests. No, I have never heard of original plastic on those. I used my old ones, and they required extensive rust cleanup and prep for covering with new material. I think the vinyl blends better with the seat upholstery visually. Of course, if you are budget-minded like me, plastic may be a viable option.