1968 Headliner wrinkle struggles

[admin]

I've been fighting this headliner for a few weekends now. I just can't get all the wrinkles out of it. I'm about to give up and just finish reinstalling the dome light, visors, coat hooks, etc. and be done with it. It's really messing up the rest of my progress.

I know I can use a hair dryer/heat gun to help a little with the wrinkles, but how much will it really help? My guess is it will only slightly help smooth it out.



And just a couple of photos of the general state of disassembly. :smile:

 

[speedy02]

I have never installed one but I watch the guy from Peterson Restorations last year and he made it look pretty easy. I was shocked how he had very little wrinkles by his prep work in trimming the edges. Not sure if this will help you and your project. But wish you best on getting it to the way you want it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TdqBlvUG2Xg

 

[Mosesatm]

Jon,
It looks like you need to trim the bow pockets (or whatever they're called) so you can pull the headliner towards the doors. Trim the ends a little, pull tight, trim a little more if needed, etc.

 

[admin]

Thanks. The bow pockets are trimmed. I'm actually afraid I trimmed them back too far. I trimmed almost back to where the bow stops curving.

 

[whodat]

Is it best to install the headliner without the front and rear window in?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Ruppstang]

Yes, in my opinion it is the only way to be successful. If you have the glass in, you might look at one of the one-piece headliners. I think Neil has used them.

 

[miller511]

Jon, If I recall (it's been a long time ago) I started at back and worked toward the front. I used a large number of the bigger binder clips along the door tops and top of the front window. The only area that I really wrestled with was the rear pillar getting the material fastened to the metal tabs. Still ended up with a little bit of wrinkles there. But was good enough. Of course the windows need to be out to glue along the sheet metal edge where the window rubber will cover. Also, wear eye protection when putting all those clips on. They can easily pop off (ask me how i know). Hope this helps. -Jeff

 

[Restore]

Another trick i use chavelothspins and/or binary clips (a lot) and lay it all out wrinkle free then glue it up in sections

 

[Restore]

sorry typo clothespins (its late here)