Need to replace my headliner in my 87 bird. Is this something I can do on my own or should I get a quote from an upholstery shop? My concern is it not being smooth and having wrinkles. Will the rear panels have to be removed or just lose? Thanks as always, Ray
I loosened the rear panels and took everything else off. It was tough to get out. Broke the rear view mirror off on accident, but this was on my 83 cougar. The tbird would have more room in the back window area to slide it backwards
It looks pretty straight forward to me. There was a ton of loose foam and insulation, but it all came out pretty easy. I'd probably redo all the foam. Thinkness really isn't that important. Lots of wiggle room there.
My concern is I will damage the board trying to get it out & back in. Or will it bend and bow quite a bit?
It not bad at all. Just take it slow. You will have to remove a lot of plastic trim pieces and I cant remember, but i believe I lowered the steering column. You need 2 people to put the new material on smoothly.
I replaced the headliner in my '84 earlier this summer and was able to do everything myself. Removing the headliner board wasn't difficult at all. It was necessary for me to remove the front seatbelts from the B-pillar. I found a nylon bristle brush made quick work of the foam without damaging the headliner board. I reinstalled my headliner myself but it would have been nice to have a buddy to help me. I found reattaching the sunvisor hardware the trickiest part of the whole process! I had to use a jewler's screwdriver to search for the holes in the body where the hardware attached. Just be patient and you'll be happy with the results!