Noisy seating.

When in the process of purchasing a Mitsubishi Fuso FG in 2006 to transform it into an expedition vehicle several messages were read on forums that it was essential to change the seats in the truck.
On rougher roads the original Fuso seats were kidney rockers and spine deformers.

A fellow Fuso FG’er recommended “National”-seats.


Seats with many features:

* Maximum comfort and support is the result of leading edge ergonomic design
* High seat back Captains Chair features body contoured seat cushions
* 6 to 23 degree seatback recline.
* Power lumbar support features 3 air cushions, each individually adjustable, provides orthopedic back support
* Seat back and cushions incorporate power bolsters
* Improved shoulder support
* Air ride suspension with 3" stroke includes heavy duty shock damper
* Ergonomic placement of driver friendly controls
* Seat cushion extension adjustment
* 7 in. fore/aft slide adjustment travel
* Genuine leather trim with perforated leather inserts
* Seat trim warranty: 1 year
* Seat frame & suspension warranty: 5 year/million miles
* Optional armrests: left hand, right hand or both

And most important, they were seats that would fit in a Fuso FG.

The “National”-seats were found for sale on a website from a company called “Industrial Seats”.
One pair was ordered and they were delivered at Santek Trailers in Riverside, California.
Not cheap seats.
In total over 2.000 $ was spent.

Using the Fuso Szulc sitting on those expensive seats, it was immediately noticed that they made a squeaking sound.
Every movement the car made and subsequently the body in the seat resulted in a penetrating and strong squeaking.
Very strong indeed.
Even when the radio is turned on loud, the squeaking can be easily heard.
The technical crew of Santek Trailers was asked to check it out.
They found that the sound came from within the chair.
Not from the frame, not from the suspension and not from the nuts and bolts.
It seemed that inside there was friction causing the strong noise.
Because the inside of the seats are covered with cloth, there is no way to open the chairs to get to where the squeaking originates.
Reason to get in touch with Industrial Seats.
A fellow called Andrew Bennecke.

First he was unable to find the original order.
After waiting more than two weeks it was found and an account manager for this problem was assigned: Bill Wickert who was to be contacted.

After waiting more than two weeks Bill Wickert informed that he was referring the problem to National Seating who made the chairs.
However, their contact there had retired, so Bill was waiting to hear from them.

After waiting more than 3 weeks, still no message from Bill.
Time to send Bill a reminder.
One of the many reminders that have been sent in this saga.
This reply:

“Hello Michael,

I've been trying to get a response back from National Seating on this matter but haven't been able to get an answer. I called and was transferred around and finally got someone that would help. They have heard of this squeaky problem and do not have a solution for the ones who encounter this problem. I told them that you were very upset and they said the best they could do is send you a new base free of charge. I hope that is satisfactory for you. She would like you to call her directly to discuss and she will have one sent out. Here is her contact information:

National Seating
Sheila Baker
(423)884-4703

Let me know if you have any future problems. I apologize for the delay.

Regards,
Bill Wickert
847-557-2709
United Group, Inc.
bwickert@unitedgp.com”

So, as instructed, Sheila Baker was called directly.
Who had not much to say.
Except that she wanted to know the serial numbers of the seats.

This information was sent to her on September 10.
As of then: no reply.

New messages to remind have been send to this Sheila Baker.
Also to this Bill Wickert.

Final result: they prefer simply not to reply anymore.

This is how a problem they themselves recognise exists is being handled.
Let the customer complain for months until the customer is being worn out and falls silent.

Meanwhile, each time the Fuso Szulc is on the road, the squeaking irritates and disturbs.
It is so bad that even when a hand is gently put on top of the seat, it squeaks.

If a manufacturer and a distributor do not honour the guarantee on their product, there is nothing left to do but to go public.
To inform potential buyers about this experience and avoid they have to learn a hard lesson.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The website of the distributor of "National"-seats:
http://www.industrialseats.com/product.asp?pID=224&pgrID=74&categoryID=23

The website of the manufacturer of "National"-seats:
http://www.cvgrp.com/nationalSeating.aspx






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