Restored My Water Damaged Interior Panel

[Chargerjase]

If your car has ever leaked in the past (who's hasn't), then the chances are you might have some panels that look like this.

Here is a basic overview of how I restored mine.
First gently separate the vinyl from the steel top frame and the MDF. Mine parted very easily and did not damage the vinyl at all. There was really hardly any glue on it. My vinyl was still in good shape so obviously if its too far gone then you will need to replace it.
Next, separate the MDF from the steel. These seem to be pressed on there. With a wide blade scraper they will pull through. The rotting timber will make them weak anyway. I also cleaned off the old glue with solvent.

I then cleaned up the rust and treated it. I also painted it with some Rustoleum primer.
Next thing was to make an exact copy of the original MDF using the old board as a template. Then just glue them together with some metal to timber Nailbond of the equivalent.

Spray on the new contact adhesive and carefully refit the vinyl to the new base. Use an off cut of the board and place a weight on it to ensure that you have no lifting. I used a car battery, but whatever suits.
Once that has cured, use clothes pegs to fold over the edges and glue them down.

Now you have a nice wrinkle free vinyl panel. I also used suger soap and a toothbrush to remove the grime.

Now my car is going to be a driver, so of course this is not as good as a brand new panel, but its not far off it. Hope this helps anybody out there who has a similar issue.

- - - Updated - - -

Got a couple of rouge pictures at the bottom of the before shots that I cant remove sorry.

 

[Baller]

Looks good. Question though, was there a thin layer of foam between the MDF and vinyl? And if there was, I assume you were able to salvage it?

 

[Redhorse719]

Good job there, thanks for posting.

 

[Chargerjase]

Looks good. Question though, was there a thin layer of foam between the MDF and vinyl? And if there was, I assume you were able to salvage it?

Yep, good question. There is a thin layer of foam which is sandwiched between the vinyl and brown paper. It was water stained but intact. I didn't dare try and open that can of worms and its made no difference to the finished product.

 

[Trashdog67]

I just restored my panels using the same process. Vinyl interior spray paint from Herb's parts brought the old material to life. It was time well spent. You did a nice job.

 

[440+6]

Nice work.

 

[SureGrip]

Looks great!

Where did you source the MDF?

I have a few sets like this (stored in the 'attic' area of a shed that developed a roof leak) and considered trashing, but I guess they can be saved.

 

[Chargerjase]

Looks great!

Where did you source the MDF?

I have a few sets like this (stored in the 'attic' area of a shed that developed a roof leak) and considered trashing, but I guess they can be saved.

They certainly can be saved so long as the vinyl is still in good order. I actually got an off cut from a joinery/cabinet makers shop. He gave it to me for free which was great. The thickness is 1/8 Inch. The rest of the materials cost $20, so loads cheaper than buying re-pops.

 

[kiwigtx]

Nicely done Jase :headbang:

 

[Coyoteduster]

Very nice job! I have been wanting to tackle this project, but haven't worked up the courage yet.

 

[SureGrip]

They certainly can be saved so long as the vinyl is still in good order. I actually got an off cut from a joinery/cabinet makers shop. He gave it to me for free which was great. The thickness is 1/8 Inch. The rest of the materials cost $20, so loads cheaper than buying re-pops.

Great!

I never considered the 'hard board' was actually MDF.

Thanks!

 

[sleepar]

I've used luan-mohaugany ply wood... it was 3/16 and I got a similar results... I did the rear seat board, package tray and the one for the spare tire... I painted it flat black but this car may get a wood grain interior or my old seat covers.... the original cards are going into storage....