Frustrations from installing an aftermarket interior kit are over with this easy-to-follow, illustrated, step-by-step book that shows how to achieve professional results. We have all heard that premade seat covers and interior pieces are junk, but this is not true. The majority of the problems encountered is due to installer error. All old cars have fitment issues, and knowing how to overcome them will get you the desired results that you are looking for in your Corvette (C1, C2, C3). This first-of-its-kind book walks you through the steps of how to properly install seat upholstery, door panels, carpet, convertible tops, and troubleshoot those pesky fitment issues. Tips are provided on how to order products and deal with an item that is defective. Installation tools, supplies, and why you need them are all fully illustrated with color photos and easy-to-follow steps. Saving money and getting the satisfaction of doing a project yourself is what this book is all about. Learn tricks from professional Fred Mattson who has more than 46 years of installation experience and knows firsthand on how to make a difficult project look great. It just takes a little guidance and patience to achieve that perfect fit. How to Install Corvette Interior Kits is the book for achieving professional results by keeping your money in your pocket and not at an upholsters shop!
Dedication
Introduction
Chapter 1: Restoration Supplies
Manufacturers and Suppliers
Al Knoch Interiors
Top Flight Automotive (Corvette America)
Corvette Central
Eckler’s
Corvette Pacifica
Chapter 2: Tools
Basic Tools
Specialty Tools
Panel Removal Tools
Chapter 3: Seats and Interior Components
Seats
What to Order
Seat Disassembly
Seat Back Hardware
Prepping the Foam
Installing the Cover on the Seat Bottom
Adding the Hardware
Anchor Access
Backrest Cover
Perimeter Listings
Trim Installation
Final Assembly
Ready to Drive
Late C3 Seat Covers
Chapter 4: Door Panels
Removal
Door Trim
Teardown
Panel Assembly
Molding Installation
Finishing Touches
Panel Flush Washers
Armrest Preparation
Cover Installation
Armrest Assembly
Panel Installation
Door Hardware
C3 Door Panels
Panel Conversion
Armrest Repair
Chapter 5: Carpet
Teardown
Clean Up
Carpet Pad
New Carpet
Dimmer Switch Grommet
Installing Seat Belts
Armrest Pad
Trim Panels
Finishing
C3 Carpet
Chapter 6: Trim Panels
Hand Brake Cover
Rear Compartment
Hardware
A-Pillar
Dash Pads
Chapter 7: Convertible Tops
What Makes a One-Piece Top?
Variations
Inspecting the Frame
Top Frame Adjustment
Clean and Paint
Top Latches
Fitting a New Top
Top Pads
Prepare the Top
Attach the Top
Rear Bow Detail
Top Decking
Wire-on Welt
Front Weather Seal
Rear Weatherstrip
The Finished Top
Header Bow Repair
Broken Screws
Source Guide 176
Frustrations from installing an aftermarket interior kit are over with this easy-to-follow, illustrated, step-by-step book that shows how to achieve professional results. We have all heard that premade seat covers and interior pieces are junk, but this is not true. The majority of the problems encountered is due to installer error. All old cars have fitment issues, and knowing how to overcome them will get you the desired results that you are looking for in your Corvette (C1, C2, C3). This first-of-its-kind book walks you through the steps of how to properly install seat upholstery, door panels, carpet, convertible tops, and troubleshoot those pesky fitment issues. Tips are provided on how to order products and deal with an item that is defective. Installation tools, supplies, and why you need them are all fully illustrated with color photos and easy-to-follow steps. Saving money and getting the satisfaction of doing a project yourself is what this book is all about. Learn tricks from professional Fred Mattson who has more than 46 years of installation experience and knows firsthand on how to make a difficult project look great. It just takes a little guidance and patience to achieve that perfect fit. How to Install Corvette Interior Kits is the book for achieving professional results by keeping your money in your pocket and not at an upholsters shop!
Dedication
Introduction
Chapter 1: Restoration Supplies
Manufacturers and Suppliers
Al Knoch Interiors
Top Flight Automotive (Corvette America)
Corvette Central
Eckler’s
Corvette Pacifica
Chapter 2: Tools
Basic Tools
Specialty Tools
Panel Removal Tools
Chapter 3: Seats and Interior Components
Seats
What to Order
Seat Disassembly
Seat Back Hardware
Prepping the Foam
Installing the Cover on the Seat Bottom
Adding the Hardware
Anchor Access
Backrest Cover
Perimeter Listings
Trim Installation
Final Assembly
Ready to Drive
Late C3 Seat Covers
Chapter 4: Door Panels
Removal
Door Trim
Teardown
Panel Assembly
Molding Installation
Finishing Touches
Panel Flush Washers
Armrest Preparation
Cover Installation
Armrest Assembly
Panel Installation
Door Hardware
C3 Door Panels
Panel Conversion
Armrest Repair
Chapter 5: Carpet
Teardown
Clean Up
Carpet Pad
New Carpet
Dimmer Switch Grommet
Installing Seat Belts
Armrest Pad
Trim Panels
Finishing
C3 Carpet
Chapter 6: Trim Panels
Hand Brake Cover
Rear Compartment
Hardware
A-Pillar
Dash Pads
Chapter 7: Convertible Tops
What Makes a One-Piece Top?
Variations
Inspecting the Frame
Top Frame Adjustment
Clean and Paint
Top Latches
Fitting a New Top
Top Pads
Prepare the Top
Attach the Top
Rear Bow Detail
Top Decking
Wire-on Welt
Front Weather Seal
Rear Weatherstrip
The Finished Top
Header Bow Repair
Broken Screws
Source Guide 176