Hi everyone!

New to owning a Honda, not to DIY and mechanic'ing.

Picked up a "Canadian Model" 1989 Civic Coupe Hatchback in pretty good condition.

Had a couple questions:

1. The front seats are pretty much plain gone. I've been wanting to replace them but I'm not too keen on running "universal" rails with JDM-style racing seats; I would prefer something OEM or close to it. Unless someone can suggest a good/comfortable/affordable combo for a 3-point restraint.

I've hit the local junkyards and they've either already been taken or are in worse condition! Does anyone have any helpful resources for interior parts/panels? I also need new air vents.

2. I believe the fuel sending unit has gone bad. I've never dropped a tank before. Does anyone have any experience here?

3. The passenger-side rear drum is squeaking/groaning at slow brake pressure while coming to a stop. I took off the hub but saw no star-adjuster; instead I just saw another spring. There's still some pad material left so I'm hesitant to replace/rebuild a drum at the moment. Anyone got any advice on adjustments?

4. I'm told that the transmissions in these Civics just take motor oil!?! Is this true? If so should I actually go ahead and use MTF, or just no worries and use motor oil?

5. Any good place to get OEM floor mats?

Thanks everyone! Just about every-time I google something Honda-Tech pops up at practically the top, so I'm excited to be where all the experts are!

T.

 

junk yard is about it. for seats get em re-upholstered and scour for better seats if you can.

dropping the tank, basically have the electrical connections through the top under the back seat, the fill hose and several vacuum hoses in that area, and then the fuel send and return lines on top of the tank. the only thing that holds it 2 straps. get underneath and look it over, its tedious but not hard.

clean the drum really good and see what you can do. i believe they are self adjusting, and if they are not doing so they may be dirty/gummed up.

i have used 10w30 without issues, mtf, and 85w-ish syncromesh without issues.

junkyard is another place to get them.

 

Thanks for the advice on the fuel tank. Is this a "bag 'o' gaskets" type job, or would it include an RTV-type scenario?

Good idea on the drums; I'll check em out again tomorrow.

Do you have a preferred fluid, or do I REALLY need to not worry about it? If I go with 10W-30, is there a "known" or preferred brand you like?

Now, as for the seats.

While I got your ear (thanks) do you know/think/heard of running universal rails with JDM seats w/ welding etc?

Unfortunately where I live Junkyard access is slim pickings, and being tall, the stock seat headrests barely make it to the lower part of my skull, so im not against swapping for some more "buckety" type JDM stuff.

What do you think?

Thanks!

P.S. Southern Star Brewery ALL THE WAY; I've driven out to Conroe-area a few times in the last year. So beautiful!