Installing New C2 Headliner

[Mark W.]

My '66 removeable hardtop needs a new vinyl headliner, which I already have. I've also procured all the missing hardware over the past couple years and have painted the stainless trim pieces. I've removed the old headliner and scraped away most traces of old glue. Are there any tricks to installing the new headliner? I've tried to slide it under the metal lip of the roof to see how it fits before glueing, but it is very tight and I don't want to ruin it right out of the gate by forcing it if there is a known procedure I don't know about. Any help or advice would be appreciated.

[William G.]

Re: Installing New C2 Headliner

Mark, I recently restored the hardtop on my 66. I installed a new red vinyl headliner made by Al Knoch. I did not use any glue, based on information I found on this forum. I was surprised that it went in so easily,and I had to trim only a little here and there . Years ago I installed a headliner on a straight axle hardtop and that is a real job. Installing the C2 headliner was one of the easier projects I've done.

[Mark W.]

Re: Installing New C2 Headliner

I guess I assumed the headliner was the correct size, which may well be my problem. I will take another closer look to see if I need to trim some. Did you replace the weatherstripping? Mine looks ok, but is probably pretty old. I've had the car for 8 years and have had the hardtop stored since I got the car and am just now looking to get it put back together. If you replaced the weatherstripping, where did you get the new one and haow did you like it?

[William G.]

Re: Installing New C2 Headliner

Mark, The former owner had started to restore the hardtop so new weatherstrip was already installed.The clips on the front weatherstrip required a little figuring out. Search the archives for more posts on that subject.Other than that a C2 hardtop is not too bad to work on.

[Ara G.]

Re: Installing New C2 Headliner

Hi there. I just finished the restoration of my 67 vinyl hardtop which inluded new weatherstripping, latches (have an extra set of NOS ones if you know anyone who needs them) headliner and moldings. The headliner i got was teal to match the interior from Al Knoch. It fit well, but was TIGHT. Take your time with it. Use soft plastic putty knives and/or wooden paint stirrers to "help" it in. Mine fit perfectly, and if I trimmed it at all to get it in, it would have looked horrible once installed. Good luck. ARA