Front floor mat removal

[greg g]

In preparation for installing an OD transmission, I will be attempting to remove the center floor section.  To get to it and be able to get penetrating oil on the fasteners, the original rubber floor mat needs to come out.  Obviously I want to do as little damage as possible as they are not readily available and no one that I know of reproduces them.  My drivers side is pretty chewed up but the passenger side is pristine.  I plan on duct taping the damaged areas and the edges to reinforce them and hopefully keeping them from ripping.  Clutch and brake pedals and gas pedal will come off.  Is it advisable to remove the seat cushion or does the entire seat need to come out?  Any other helpful tips from folks who have done this to do trans work?  

When I did my engine swap 13 years back I pulled and installed the trans with the floor in place but I was younger and still had use of my arms and hands in weird positions.  Pinched nerves, torn rotator cuffs and arthritis mean that option is no longer available, plus I want to make it as easy as possible for the for the volunteer mechanicians who have pledged assistance in return for lodging, vittles, and chilled beverages.

[Mark D]

Seat bench removed for mine, however frame remained in car. Pics below. I took the time to replace the jute backer to the rubber when I pulled it from the car. Note that the steeringcolumn collar at the fire wall need to be backed off, and the gas, and brake clutch rubber  pedals also. 

[Mark D]

Ps I got plenty of jute left over, can deliver it on 11/4.