Re: KPack's 1954 Panama

Posted by kevinpackard On 2021/2/24 11:56:22

Mike - I can't help but be drawn to that sail panel area because it's so visible. I'll ask a guy I know and see what his thoughts are. The window tracks and beltline trim will be much easier in this car because they are straight. I'm just trying figure out the right size for both before I order. Then I need to figure out how to remove the windows.

BigKev - After seeing how nice yours turned out when the professionals did it, I was seriously considering having a pro take care of it. The problem was everyone I talked to was booked out until after April. I didn't have that kind of time so I figured I'd try it myself.

John - It's by no means a perfect job, but I'm relatively pleased with the outcome. There are a few things I would do differently, now that I've been through the whole process. I stretched to the front, then to the back, then started doing the sides in the back. If I were to do it over again I would've started the sides in the front, then worked my way back. I ended up with some wrinkles at the front that I can't get rid of because the mounts for the sunshades keep the #1 bow and seam from being pulled forward anymore. I think I can hide most of it and blend in any wrinkles, but it won't be a perfect job.

JWL - I've heard of steam as well, and I may try that. I asked an upholstery guy about the fold marks from shipping, and he said those will disappear over time. The most important thing is that the headliner is tight, which mine is. It sounds like a drum anywhere you tap on it. The problem I have with the sail panels is that the fabric was nice and tight there with no wrinkles, but as soon as I cut into it and mounted the lights, it pulled the fabric in a different direction (towards the outside of the car) and thus created wrinkles. If I back the screws out a bit from the mounting I might be able to less the wrinkles.

-Kevin