Gaining more legroom in the drivers seat

Technical questions and answers about the Mazda Bongo

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PJ_Bristol
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Gaining more legroom in the drivers seat

Post by PJ_Bristol » Mon Nov 09, 2020 10:22 pm

Hi guys,

I am new here, I hope it is ok to post straight away asking for advice?

I have driven a couple of Bongos and a common issue I have is a lack of legroom. It is ok on a quick trip but an hour or so and my right lef is cramped up and my knee is sore. I have tried putting a couple of cushions under my bum, which does somewhat help but still doesnt give me the legroom. I know some people replace the seat with an MX5 seat but I understand this doesnt allow for the seat to go fully horizontal. On the Bongo I want to buy the drivers seat needs to lie flat to form part of the bed, so I don't think that is a solution.

Have anyone managed to install a new seat or change the seat position or find another solution and still be able to make the seat flat?

Thank you in anticipation

Peter :)
willow2u
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Re: Gaining more legroom in the drivers seat

Post by willow2u » Mon Nov 09, 2020 10:35 pm

Must be able to reposition runner mounts 2 or 3 inches backwards
PJ_Bristol
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Re: Gaining more legroom in the drivers seat

Post by PJ_Bristol » Mon Nov 09, 2020 11:12 pm

Thanks Willow,

I have heard that but not found an example of anyone actually doing it. One place said they think it 'will intefer with the integrity of the manufacturer' seats'

Anyone seen any examples?
Bob
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Re: Gaining more legroom in the drivers seat

Post by Bob » Mon Nov 09, 2020 11:42 pm

Being only 5'6” I haven’t found it a problem, but, as said’ I would think it quite possible.

Insurers like to know of any modifications, but that doesn’t automatically mean extra cost.

Welcome aboard, and of course you’re welcome to post - that’s what we’re about. 8)

Edit: We’re just in Nailsea. :)
PJ_Bristol
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Re: Gaining more legroom in the drivers seat

Post by PJ_Bristol » Tue Nov 10, 2020 8:59 am

Thanks Bob. I'd really like to find an example of someone who's actually done it, before I buy a bongo. Incidentally the van I'm looking at is in Nailsea...
PJ_Bristol
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Re: Gaining more legroom in the drivers seat

Post by PJ_Bristol » Sat Nov 14, 2020 3:07 pm

Afternoon all, I hope it is ok to bump this for any other thoughts... :D
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g8dhe
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Re: Gaining more legroom in the drivers seat

Post by g8dhe » Sat Nov 14, 2020 3:22 pm

:-)
There is the other route of course ;-)
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002965.htm
Geoff
2001 Aero V6, AFT, full side conversion.
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Bob
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Re: Gaining more legroom in the drivers seat

Post by Bob » Sat Nov 14, 2020 4:11 pm

That's a bit drastic, Geoff. :shock: :shock: :shock:
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g8dhe
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Re: Gaining more legroom in the drivers seat

Post by g8dhe » Sat Nov 14, 2020 4:14 pm

Well he did say
find another solution
:-) Its either change the Bongo or change the driver ;-)
Geoff
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Bob
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Re: Gaining more legroom in the drivers seat

Post by Bob » Sat Nov 14, 2020 4:22 pm

I s'pose.. :lol:
rita
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Re: Gaining more legroom in the drivers seat

Post by rita » Mon Nov 16, 2020 1:00 pm

You could always fit Cruise Control to give your leg a wee rest.
PJ_Bristol
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Re: Gaining more legroom in the drivers seat

Post by PJ_Bristol » Mon Nov 23, 2020 11:24 pm

Hi guys,

Sorry I got waylaid, not looking into leg surgery, I have to add!

I have rung a few garages, they all seem to say the same thing - they think it is possible, but they are not keen to do it. I think becasue it is complicated and unusual and also they they want to take responsibility for the potential change in safety.

Also worth saying the van I am looking at does have cruise control but I still think I will end up with cramp.

One idea is to change for an MX5 seat, which I think raises you away from the pedals a bit. Has anyone else done that and could say a bit about the change in driving position?

Peter
Bob
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Re: Gaining more legroom in the drivers seat

Post by Bob » Tue Nov 24, 2020 12:32 am

People have fitted MX5 seats, but I can't remember who, or what difference it made. Sorry that's not too helpful.
willow2u
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Re: Gaining more legroom in the drivers seat

Post by willow2u » Tue Nov 24, 2020 9:27 am

I think it would be possible to weld another set of runners piggy backed to the originals obviously the mountings of the piggyback runners will need chopping of but it would still be safe I have my seats out at the moment so I will check later
rita
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Re: Gaining more legroom in the drivers seat

Post by rita » Tue Nov 24, 2020 12:59 pm

You have done the correct approach to the vehicle by testing for your requirements , unfortunately it looks like these vehicles are no suitable for you.
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