I have a 2001 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT Z71 with heated/electronic bucket seats on both sides. I know it's crazy, but I'd like to replace them (and the console in between) with a bench seat. A 40/20/40 seat would be fine with me too, if it meant just replacing the center console. Basically, my goal is to have capacity for a sixth person in the middle of the front seats. Any ideas?

 

Go out to the salvage yard and grab a seat/console setup out of a 95+ or matching interior style truck and swap it all over. As far as the seats go, I think that you're safe to just leave the heater unplugged.

If you have side air bags though, disconnect the battery and wait at least 30 minutes before disconnecting the yellow airbag connector under the seat. I honestly don't know if trucks of this year came with side air bags, but just be aware of the danger of setting off the airbag while removing seats.

 

There was a center seat option that was available in 2001. Just find one of those to match your upholstery. You will be able to keep your heated seats too. Here is an example...

99-06 Chevy SIlverado Gmc Sierra Center folding Jump Seat console Avalanche TAN | eBay