Just wondered, on the 56 (mainline) are the windshields supposed to be out for the headliner install? I know my current headliner was installed with them in place, but I wasnt sure if that was just made to work, or normal for the 56.
On our years of Fords the windshield can remain in,it's the rear gl*** that needs to be removed according to the Ford Shop Manual when installing a headliner.I have a guy coming to do mine,having the expense of having to buy a rear gl*** is too big a chance,the old seal in mine is rock hard.Also you need to install the new windlace before the headliner goes in.
Jeff, where did you obtain your headliner? Do you know of a good source? The previous owner of my Ford ('53) and his wife put the one in mine and there is a good amount of buckling. It would really clean up the interior.
I got lucky when I got mine,I was surfing ebay and came across it and only paid $35 plus shipping for it.It was new and made by Stock Interiors but ended up at a place that restores Mustangs normal price is around $150-$175.Check out this: http://www.usapartssupply.com/uploads/USA_PARTS_Ford_2008_Catalog.pdf for some of the best prices these guys also have kick panels and package trays for '52-54 Fords not listed anywhere else.Order a catalog from them,there are some good deals available.The most important thing is to mark the position of the old bows if you get ready to do it send me a pm as I have a copy of how to ID them and what length they are,they are also color coded on the ends which can be worn off,if they mixed them up it may be why it is lumpy.
great link jeff, but i didnt see the kick panels or rear package tray listed. i would be interested in hearing of anybody's experience with their seatcovers tho. thanks in advance.
Kick panels for 52-54's are part# F2341L package tray is part#F46668B give them a call to verify 1-800-872-2013
Jeff, so now I have another possible issue. Of course. They installed my gl*** yesterday and the headliner looked perfect. The interior guy said it looks great and we should just dye it to save money because it was so nice. I dont know WTH they did, but he called and said when trying to strech it back in place it ripped several places. So now I have new gl***, new seal, and all stainless installed on back windshield, and a headliner that will now probably need replacing. Is it possible for this to be done without removing the back window again, or will it have to happen? its always 1 step forward, 2 back for me. When my dad had all the interior done on my car back in 94, I dont think either front or back windows were removed, but I am going to ask him.
In most cases the rear gl*** does need to come out,if you have an EXPERIENCED upholsterer and the seal being new can be removed without damaging it you could get lucky.Try www.usapartssupply.com for new headliners they are pre-cut and ready to install very good selection and very good on price.An older headliner may look good but if it came from a car that was owned by a smoker it doesn't take much for a little contact to begin falling apart.There are some (key word) "EXPERIENCED" upholsterers that may be able to do a headliner without removing the gl*** but headliners that use bows have been gone for quite a few years and have been replaced by glue-in styles so many of the old-timers that are bow experienced may be hard to find.The other option is,can you eliminate the bows and convert to glue in? depends on who you work with and in the past you haven't had much luck with finding good shops.Best advice is attend car shows and events in your area and talk to owners and see who has done their work and what kind of experience they had ,so take notes before you lay down the cash.
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