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Fitting Interior Trim

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Aeroken

Aeroken

Senior Member
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I'm in the process of installing an interior kit from TRF in my 73 TR6. It's been going well so far considering I've done basically no upholstery work before. I thought the seats would be the most difficult part, but I took my time and the results have been good. However, now I've gotten to the rear wheel arch covers and I'm somewhat stymied.

The pieces of foam in the kit (1 flat strip and one curved piece per side) seem to be WAY big and I'm not sure of the best way to match the two pieces up. Also, there seems to be a LOT of excess material on the covers themselves compared to the ones that came off. I have the Williams book as well as a couple of other interior installation guides but before I start trimming, I thought I'd ask for some pointers from those who've been there. Also, any advice on how to handle the inside flange of the piping would be appreciated.

THANKS!
Ken
 
Don't trim anything. Using 3M spray adhesive, lay out your foam strips as taut as possible without really stretching it and let it set up a while. When installing the vinyl, try centering the piece so that it looks good, usually start the gluing process somewhere near the top of the arch. Tack it down at the high point of the arch with your adhesive and let this dry. Stretch from there. It is a real challenge to get this wheel-well vinyl to look good without any wrinkles. Don't get too upset if you show a ripple or two. It is removable to start over, but you will rip the rubber padding to shreds if you try. Get it right the first time. The excess will lay up under the carpet and panels. Not that hard. Just take your time. A lot easier if you unbolt the 5 retaining bolts that hold the rear of your convertible top down in the back. (Actually, you will need the top completely off to install the panels anyway.) If you can do seats, you should be a master at the rest.
 
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