Automobile Information & Articles

Clean all glass surfaces. The Pro Glass Detailing System (#52243) features a floating triangular head with replaceable bonnets. The unique shape and low profile of this tool allow it to reach into corners. Especially great for the lower windshield corners where there is very limited space between the glass and the dash.

Interior vinyl, leather and plastic parts like seats, dash top and other trim panels can fade due to sun damage. For the most professional results its best to remove the piece to be refinished. Eastwood offers a full line of trim tools from 3 Piece Door Panel and Trim Removal Set (#52296) with stainless steel blades to the less expensive plated steel (52021) Trim Removal Set. Other ducts, window and other trims can be unscrewed and gently pried away with the Reinforced Nylon Pry Tool Set (#37180). Once the panels to be refinished have been removed they can be completely scrubbed with detergent. Hard plastic parts can then be sprayed with Plastic Prep (#52056Z) then with any of the 15 SEM dyes, Softer upholstery vinyls can be cleaned with a detergent scrub followed by Vinyl Prep (#52055Z) before freshening with one of the SEM dyes. Be sure to work in a well ventilated area and follow label directions for best results.

Original style seat covers are available for the more popular vehicles. The seats in most cars built in the 60's through 70's and beyond have covers that can be replaced with a few basic tools. The Stretching Plier (#52031) helps pull covers tightly around the metal frame so retaining clips or Hog Rings (#52033) can be installed with specially grooved jaw Hog Ring Pliers. These Pliers are available with either Bent (#52019) or Straight (#52032) heads.

Sagging Headliners seldom respond well to regluing. The foam backing over the years dries out and releases from the cloth headliner and the backing board. Applying a fresh layer of contact adhesive soon releases as the foam continues to degrade. Replacing the glue-in headliners is not as difficult as many would imagine. The actual process varies from vehicle to vehicle but basically the perimeter moldings, mirror, sun visors and dome light need to be removed before the backing board can be removed. The most impressive thing about this whole process is how the entire backing board can be gently bent and passed through a door opening. At this point it's a simple and messy process to pull off the old cloth and brush away the dried foam. Headliner materials are available in 10 colors from Eastwood. We recommend purchasing one of the Headliner Kits, which includes the cloth and the proper adhesive. Follow the instructions included with the headliner and reinstall.

Are you proud of the way you transformed your vehicle's interior? Send us a before and after shot of your interior project to attach to this article. We will evaluate all entries. Winning entries will earn a $25.00 account credit, which can be applied to your next order.