Hi All,
In 1988 I began to reconstruct the quarter panels that had deteriorated a while prior due to delaminating wood under the covering vinyl. During the previous 4 or 5 years of business travel, I searched out and visited business that carried black vinyl to get an exact match for the original grain and color (yes color). I assumed Black would be the simplest color to match but even black has many shades and grains to address.
Although many Healey parts suppliers indicated panels “As Original”, after viewing many, it was obvious we did not share the meaning of the term. I finally found an exact grain and color match, purposed for a Model T Ford restoration, at La Baron Bonney, Antique Auto Restoration Fabrics in Massachusetts and purchased enough to cover the quarters +. Since the BJ8 has a waffle pattern vinyl on its face that could not be duplicated, I cut this patterned piece from the original and, after constructing the quarter from shower-grade masonite and metal, sowed the purchased vinyl to the waffle section and mounted it to t he backing.
Although my quarters came out better then original (would never delaminate again), there was an unanticipated problem. The new front portion of the quarter rested next to the door panels and the aged door panels looked shallow in color to the new quarter. At first I though this would not be that obvious, however, it was and my determination to have my “As Original” look would be lost…unless I also redid the door panels. Well, new vinyl on the doors made the dash look shallow and new dash made the dash look shallow and on and on.
Note: Front and Rear seats are Original
The reason mentioning all this is to bring up the potential of project expansion. No panel on the Healey can not be reproduced with reasonable effort and even the sewing can be done be a beginner (me) using their wife’s machine. I am not suggesting you redo your seats or even the padded fold-down shelf on a BJ8 but I would consider all else to be reasonable to consider.
As far as panel patterns, there are always a few in our local Healey community that are in the process of addressing or redoing their interior. I would suggest someone would have their panels out and you can make a pattern from their parts.
Good luck,
Ray (64BJ8P1)
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