How do I pull the headliner out of an '89 SWB without doing any damage?

Thanks

I wasn't looking to keep mine when I pulled it, due to cutting the top open. So, I just pulled carefully.

It did leave some foam residue on the metal. Some bits of the glue still holding and the headliner seperating a little behind the visible layer.

If I were to keep, I'd try a plastic mud knife, or maybe a plastic body filler "scraper/spreader." Use it to coax the seperation. I think if you simply pull, you'd end up stretching the liner to the point it might not go back in cleanly.

I agree with monty. I pulled the head liner down carfully but there was till some foam left up there so i just a puddy knife to remove. if you lokking to replace it then dont destroy the liner itself so you can use it as a template for the new one.

A similar headliner material is available in rolls from Caterpillar and similar equipment parts suppliers. Food for your thought.

Or here:

Automotive Interiors

Reviving an old thread. How is the headliner held in? Does anyone got pictures of it off? I am looking at doing this work but not sure where to start with this. My blazer was easy undo the trim and pull down this big piece of fabric cardboard and then replace.

The headliner is a foam backed vinyl, at least in the Montero/Raider to 88 that I've had. The 4-doors are a velour type fabric that I've only cut through with a power saw, and I haven't examined how to take them out.

The fabric that I referenced when this thread was new is still available.

Russell

Yeah mine is the velour. I was just checking to see how difficult it might be, so I pulled down the top of the weather striping to see that the fabric is glued to the metal. Looks like it is going to be a long painful job. Though I am thinking of replacing it with vinyl. Does anyone have photoshop to change colors of object? i am wanting to take a picture of my headliner and see what it would look like in different colors. No matter what I am going to be taking pictures of the process of tearing down.

I got part of the way. I am having trouble getting it off the windshield and the rear cargo windows. I pulled hard and afraid I am going to tear it up. Any suggestions, it seems to be stuck in the grooves. I will get pictures up soon.

The tough thing I see is figuring out a replacement liner with the factory bows.

i finally got it off and measured it for those that are thinking about ding a 4 dr Gen1 the measurement is 54"x96"

I am working on getting the insulation lined up and while I have everything down, I can figure out how I am wanting to route my wiring for the roof lights.


Important note the bows are different widths so make sure you do not mix them up. Mine has some color tips but needs more and then a corresponding color dot at the holes they go in will help you out.