jason E. Rao" said:
> Is there an EASY way to retrofit a swivel seat without welding, etc.?

   Of course it has other ways. But, that way won't have meaning.
Always you will be danger and friend. You must fix seat completely safely.
Do you choose easy way?  Or, do you choose safe way?

> Since the same year Westy has them, can I find/buy a base-plate and install ??

Go Junkyard !!! And Maybe, you can do install.
If I am you, I will run to junkyard soon..
I think  you enviously. Because, I live in Japan.
Japanese-junkyard doesn't have Vanagon at all.
I want to drink Tequiza with seeing junkVanagon in the US.

I reply your question seriously. Welding is the easiest WAY.
I think so...  Go try go!

Yosh@87'Samurai Westy