Ht Install Automotive Interior Kits (Restoratin How-To, SA475)

I purchased the book to gain a better understanding of auto trim and upholstery and I also wanted a resource book that was current. This book met both of those criteria.

How to Install Automotive Interior Kits is a necessity for any classic car buff but it’s especially beneficial to those in need of replacing worn-out interior components. The book starts with a listing of leading interior kit and component providers and a review of the tools needed to do the work. Materials options are discussed along with the advantages and disadvantages of each choice. Even covered are the small clips and push pins used in interior component replacement processes.After what I felt was a thorough review of components, materials, and tool options, the author Fred Mattson started describing the steps to complete a replacement of each interior component. By familiarizing the reader with the individual steps and shortcuts involved, he made this reader realize just how much work was involved in car interior component work. While the job seemed straightforward when initially reading interior kit advertisements online, it soon became evident that getting replacement upholstery to look good involved the proper removal of existing coverings, the replacement of the support foam and springs, and the tightening of the new covers to give them a new car look when finished. Numerous tips and challenges with door panels, headliner, carpet, and vinyl top replacement were also reviewed with suggestions for overcoming problems given.I was preparing to DIY the replacement of interior components in a 62 Oldsmobile 88. But reading this book made me realize just how big of a job that was and that the price quoted by a local car interior shop was indeed reasonable. Had I done it myself, I’d still be messing with it a year from now and been frustrated with the fact that it wasn’t coming out as well as I’d hoped. Although I’m confident with the engine and drive train mechanics of a classic car, interior work will remain something that I stay away from.The book “How to Install Automotive Interior Kits” was written to help people complete a professional-looking interior replacement job. It didn’t do that for me but it did save me a lot of time, frustration, and expense as I now know how much is involved in doing this work right. This book is definitely worth the read for anyone contemplating, or already involved in, an interior component replacement project.