Re-attaching Interior Panels

I had to re make new interior panels for my gutted 49 Ford. I cut and patterned 1/4" Masonite. Then cut and spray glued the non-woven batting and then stretched automotive vinyl over the form, attaching in the rear with more glue. I made some before with out the batting and they looked kinda cheap. I was very satisfied with my results.

Problem is - now in re-attaching the panels. I purchased SS Oval head sheet metal screws #8 x 1" and SS Cup Washers.

When I attempt to drill through the front of the vinyl (1/8" bit) to mark and drill the cars sheet metal, the batting wraps around the drill bit and bunches up. Not just a little, it will attempt to wind the hole sheet of batting around drill bit if you keep going. I have tried drilling from the back, high speed drilling, without much success.

Does anyone know the secret on how to do this?

I would be grateful for your help as I have already ruined one of the small panels (by the foot pedals) and am throughly disgusted with myself.

 

You sould drill through the masonite/plywood first. Then transfer and drill your pilot holes in the sheetmetal. Then you attach your material (foam & vinyl/whatever) to the panels. Cut your holes in the foam/vinyl with a razor knife then screw it.

If you've already got the vinyl all glued down (or stapled), you're pretty much screwed. Just hope the washers will cover up the bunched up spots. Or start over.

 

I suggest using a leather punch slightly oversize of the drill bit just through the batting. It would need to be pretty sharp but should stop the binding around the bit.

 

I did the same thing and missed a few holes,best way I found is get a good size nail and take the grinder and put a super sharp tip on it and slowly tap it thru the masonite,them insert screw.Good Luck

 

Whats the batting made of? If the punch dont work maybe you could heatup an old bit or peice of tubing thats slightly alrger than hole you need, redhot, and burn or melt the holes where you need them before you drill

 

Once you drill the masonite, fire up your soldering iron and melt the batting through the hole.

Steve

 

You should drill through the masonite 1st and transfer your holes.Push some 808 clips through the masonite and cover the masonite and clips with closed cell foam and material or your foam backed material that way you don't see the heads of the clip.Completely hidden.