Datsun Roadster Forum-311s.org

Continuing to work the interior of my '70 1600 car, I took on the task of making new interior rear side panels. I started with a single survivor to use as a template. I removed the vinyl and foam padding so I could use the base as a template and cut out the new bases out of 1/8" thick panel board. Before attaching the new foam, I "test fit" them and trimmed any edges that needed it. I applied 3M Super 77 to one side of the panel board and the foam to ensure a good bond to the panel board. I laid the panel with foam attached onto the vinyl and traced an outline about 1" from the edge of the board. I used the 3M Super 77 again to attach the vinyl to the foam, applying a coat of the adhesive to both for a good bond. I found using Weldwood Contact Cement provided the best bond of the vinyl to the back of the panel board. I applied a coat to the board and vinyl, let them set up for a few minutes, then pulled the vinyl taught and pressed in place on the back of the board. I used some plastic door shims and clamps to hold the vinyl tight against the board for about 30 minutes to let the contact cement set. Around the curved edges I cut the vinyl so it would not overlap on the back. This was the most tedious part - one section at a time, let it dry, move on to the next... I did not attach the snap button to the new panels yet. The original ones are riveted to the panel. I should be able to add any in the future by screwing them in place if I need to for securing a convertible top boot. I purchased new panel clips from Dean. Before I complete the install of the new panels, I'm going to replace all the twisties and posts along the body in this area; they are much easier to install without the panels and the tub skirt-trim piece in the way. I'm also taking the opportunity to clean up and paint the convertible top mounting brackets and the top cable receivers. This little project wasn't all that difficult - just a time consuming one - but very rewarding.

-jt

Looks like you nailed it! Nice work.

Very nice work!

Not a bad idea to do it yourself, since the mass produced ones require some taking apart, trimming and gluing back together. Very good job!

suggest using some short staples on back to add extra strength to the glue.

worked well for me!

those look really good

Where do you source the panel material ? I need panel material for the front on each side as well as the panels on the area behind the seats.

Tony -

Here's my materials list and sources for this project:

- 1/8" thick "project panel tempered hardboard" from Home Depot. That's what they call it.
- 3/16" thick foam padding, medium density from Your Auto Trim Store. www.yourautotrim.com
- Doe skin vinyl from Albright's Supply. www.albrightssupply.com

Good luck!

-jt

Most auto upholsterers also carry a heavy 'card' material.

JoAnn fabrics can supply the soft materials.

+1 JoAnn Fabrics. www.joann.com
Has vinyl, foam, glue and also excellent advice from the sales reps.
I think peg board gives a bit more flexibility and you can use the fasteners in one of the many holes as needed
Linda

The plastic boards used to make street signs (think political signs since it is that season) works well as a base as well...

Nice work! I find that a lot of the work on these cars isn’t difficult, just time consuming, if done correctly.

I also second the use of short staples.

Cheers
Matthew

So if I understand this correctly, the foam layer should prevent the Panel clips from showing a silhouette through to the vinyl material? Therefore maybe the vinyl should not be pulled to tight? Maybe I don't understand how the clips attach? Also I would imagine instead of peel and stick sound deadeners applied directly to the sheet metal you could do it to the backer board while you have it off, no?

@dac21

Foam layer is both practical and cosmetic

Pulling the vinyl pretty tight is best - the foam will hide all - remember typically since everything is vertical - there is no 'downward' pressure on the vinyl.

Sure, you could put sound deadening material there - but not sure what it would achieve. Also remember to mark the holes in the material where the holes in the metal are.