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MG MGB Technical - GT Headliner Installation

I am replacing the headliner in my MGC-GT using a Moss kit. The instructions call for installing the foam by gluing it to the ceiling, and then gluing the fabric to the foam. I seems to me that this process would be so much easier if I glued the fabric to the foam first, while I have it here on the floor, and then glued the foam/fabric assembly to the roof. It seems so obvious to me, so I suspect there is a problem with this. Does anyone have any experience who can guide me at this point?
Thanks
SCB Barkley

Hi
Not sure because I have not seen the Moss kit but..Having redone mine, I used my original formed foam board. I removed the headliner from the car, peeled off the old fabric and glued on the new. I do not see how it can be done otherwise, the edges of the headliner fit under the upper surround panels which hold it up. It would be extremely difficult to do it in place.
Mike
MK Mike

I agree that it seems best to install the liner on the foam first. I have purchased the kit as well and am getting to the point where it will time to install. Please share any info on the installation. Thanks.
R Stegs

Okay, I finished the installation, and here are my suggestions:

The fabric that goes on the rails can be installed just like the instructions call for. I used the spray contact adhesive that Moss now sells. This takes a little longer to gas off than the older stuff, so I gave it about five minutes after spraying before I put the pieces together. That worked well; no bubbles under the fabric.

Be sparing when spraying the fabric; the glue can bleed through and show on the outside. It dries transparent, but I can see the occaisional spot.

Be absolutely sure to mark all your holes as you apply the fabric. I missed the pair that hold the sun visor retainer clips and I am having a terrible time finding them.

Glue the fabric to the foam before you install the foam to the car. This is really a lot easier, and makes the final part of the installation MUCH easier. Marking a horizontal and lengthwise centerline on the inside of the roof, and the mating side of the foam will make putting it together much easier.

I sprayed about a 1 foot square in the center of the roof and foam and mated this part first. Then I worked my way towards the edge. Pressing the foam into place, and making sure it is aligned before you do, is the only part I needed help with. Otherwise, it's a one person job.

Don't glue the last 4 inches or so around the perimeter. The foam will stuff into the gap above the channels more easily, and it won't sag.

My best discovery was a seam making tool that I got at the local fabric store for about a buck. It looks like a plastic letter opener, and it was perfect for wrapping fabric over the side channels, and for stuffing the foam around the edges.

I think the kit works really well. I'm really happy with the outcome. I think the instruction set needs updating, but with these few changes, I am really happy.

Good luck!
SCB Barkley

Appreciate the experience you provided. It will help for sure.
R Stegs

SBC

Two suggestions for locating the missing holes:

1. Try probing through the fabric for the holes using a small (very thin) needle or pin.

2. Run your (clean) finger over the fabric where the holes should be. Use just enough pressure so that you will feel the indentation at the hole.

HTH

Larry
72BGT
69C in restoration
69CGT awaiting restoration
Larry Hallanger

This thread was discussed between 14/01/2008 and 22/01/2008

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