Grammer MSG85 vs MSG95: Which Seat Is Right for Your Equipment?

MSG85 vs MSG95: The Core Difference

The Grammer MSG85 and MSG95 are both premium heavy equipment seats from Grammer's 700 series, and they share the same mounting footprint, back height options, and accessory compatibility. The fundamental difference is the suspension system:

• MSG85 — Mechanical suspension. No electrical connection required. The suspension uses a spring and damper system that the operator adjusts by weight using a manual dial.
• MSG95 — 24V air suspension. Requires a 24-volt DC power connection from the machine. The suspension uses an air bladder inflated by a compressor, providing a smoother, more adjustable ride — especially over rough terrain.

If your machine does not have a 24V power source available at the seat, the MSG95 is not an option — the MSG85 is the correct choice. If 24V power is available and operator comfort over long shifts is a priority, the MSG95 is worth the upgrade.

Quick Comparison

MSG85 Series: Mechanical Suspension

The MSG85 is the most widely used Grammer seat in the heavy equipment market. Its mechanical suspension works without any electrical connection, making it compatible with virtually any machine — old or new, with or without cab electronics.

The operator sets the suspension weight range using a manual adjustment dial, and the spring/damper system absorbs vertical shock and vibration. It's a proven, low-maintenance design that performs reliably in demanding conditions.

MSG85 Models Available

• Grammer MSG85/731 — Midback, mechanical suspension. Cloth (SKU: 240000) or Vinyl (SKU: 240005). $1,124.14.
• Grammer MSG85/732 — Highback, mechanical suspension. Cloth (SKU: 242000) or Vinyl (SKU: 242005). $1,209.14.
• Grammer MSG85/731S — Midback, mechanical suspension, 180° swivel. Cloth (SKU: 240300) or Vinyl (SKU: 240305). $1,680.86.

Best For

• Equipment without 24V seat power (most compact equipment, older machines)
• Applications where simplicity and low maintenance are priorities
• Backhoe loaders requiring a swivel seat (MSG85/731S)
• Direct replacement for an existing MSG85 seat

MSG95 Series: 24V Air Suspension

The MSG95 adds an air suspension system to the 700 series platform. Instead of a mechanical spring, the seat rides on an air bladder that automatically adjusts to the operator's weight and maintains a consistent ride height. A fore/aft isolator is also included, which absorbs horizontal shock — particularly valuable on equipment that travels over rough ground or operates on slopes.

The air suspension provides a noticeably smoother ride than mechanical suspension, reducing operator fatigue on long shifts. It requires a 24V DC power connection — confirm your machine's cab voltage before ordering.

MSG95 Models Available

• Grammer MSG95/731 — Midback, 24V air suspension. Vinyl (SKU: 251005) or Cloth (SKU: 251000). $1,538.64.
• Grammer MSG95/732 — Highback, 24V air suspension. Cloth (SKU: 256000) or Vinyl (SKU: 256005). $1,623.64.

Best For

• Equipment with 24V cab power available at the seat
• Operators spending 8+ hours per day in the seat
• Equipment operating on rough terrain, slopes, or uneven surfaces
• Applications where vibration reduction and operator health are priorities
• Direct replacement for an existing MSG95 seat

Midback (731) vs Highback (732): Which Back Height?

Both the MSG85 and MSG95 are available in midback and highback configurations. The back height does not affect suspension performance — it's purely a matter of cab clearance and operator preference.

• Midback (/731) — The back extends to approximately mid-torso height. Choose this if your cab has limited overhead clearance behind the seat, or if the operator prefers more freedom of movement in the upper back.
• Highback (/732) — The back extends to shoulder height, providing more upper back and shoulder support. Choose this for operators who prefer full back support during long shifts.

If you're replacing an existing seat, match the back height of the original seat unless you have a specific reason to change it.

The Swivel Variant: MSG85/731S

The MSG85/731S adds a 180° swivel base to the standard MSG85/731 midback seat. This is specifically designed for backhoe loaders, where the operator needs to rotate to face the backhoe attachment. The swivel is only available on the MSG85 platform — there is no MSG95 swivel variant.

If your machine requires a swivel seat, the MSG85/731S is the correct choice regardless of whether 24V power is available.

How to Check Your Machine's Cab Voltage

Before ordering an MSG95, confirm that your machine has a 24V DC power source available at the seat location. Here's how:

1. Check your equipment's operator or service manual for cab electrical specifications.
2. Look for an existing wiring harness near the seat — if the machine previously had an air suspension seat, the harness is likely already in place.
3. Use a multimeter to measure voltage at the seat power connector. It should read approximately 24V DC with the machine running.
4. If you're unsure, contact your equipment dealer or a qualified technician before ordering.

Important: Do not connect an MSG95 to a 12V system. The compressor requires 24V and will not function correctly — or may be damaged — on lower voltage.

Accessories Compatible with Both MSG85 and MSG95

Because the MSG85 and MSG95 share the same 700 series platform, all 700 series accessories fit both seat families:

• Grammer 700 Series Armrests (SKU: 2030 pair / 2031 left / 2032 right)
• Grammer 700 Series Headrest (SKU: 2330 cloth / 2335 vinyl)
• Grammer 700 Series Swivel (SKU: 2370) — for MSG85 seats
• Grammer 700 Series OPS Switch (SKU: 2110)
• AmSafe 2-inch Retractable Seat Belt (SKU: 6100)

Still Not Sure Which Model to Order?

Start with our seat model identification guide to confirm your current seat model, then use the comparison above to select the right replacement. If you're upgrading from an MSG85 to an MSG95, verify your cab voltage first using the steps above.