Delorean Headliner Installation Instructions

The headliner, or interior roof trim, in a Delorean consists of four pieces that are installed in the top of the car to give a finished look to the vehicle's interior. In the older Delorean, the headliner pieces were made from paper forms that had foam-backed cloth bonded to them. Newer Deloreans and replacement headliners are made from fiberglass forms. The fiberglass lasts longer and is less troublesome to change. When placing the new headliner, it is also recommended to use new fir-tree fasteners.

Instructions

1




Use a standard screwdriver to place the screws.

Install the rear panel first. Maneuver the panel between the trim and the bulkhead while engaging the bracket with the tongue. Continue pushing the panel from the front toward the rear of the car until it will go no farther. Adjust the trim panels against the bulkhead. Tighten the screw with the screwdriver. Ensure the screw does not encounter the fiberglass of the panel, as it is intended only to hold the panel in place. Leave the extra fabric protruding out for later.

2

Replace the dome light. When cutting the hole in the fabric for the dome light, cut it smaller than the hole in the headliner you removed. The fabric will support the light somewhat. The old hole was likely stretched from normal wear and tear and will not be a good template for the new fabric.

3

Install the front panel in the same manner as you installed the rear panel in step 1. You will hear a "clunk" when the panel is set properly.

4

Connect the wires to the dome light while the front panel is still hanging down.

5

Push a hole into the front panel with the awl at each of the four screw holes. Mount the sun visors by screwing them into place on the front panel. Do not tighten the screws completely.

6

Adjust the front panel to be centered between the door openings. Tighten all four screws, holding the visors in place. Leave the excess fabric protruding from the panel.

7

Cut slits in the extra material from the front and back panels to alleviate stress. Be careful not to cut the slits so far that they show on the inside of the car. Starting with the rear panel, stretch the fabric slightly and glue in place to the fiberglass form of the car using the spray trim adhesive. Let the glue set and cure for five minutes, even if the can says it does not take that long.

8

Press the panels up toward the roof and then press the material firmly into the lip. Trim away the excess cloth, flush with the lip, using the razor. Then move on to the front panel and glue the excess fabric in the same way as the rear panel. Where overlap occurs, the front panel must be placed on top of the rear panel fabric.

9

Align the fir-tree fasteners on the door panels with the holes on the door and press into place. Pound the panel gently with your fist to secure the fasteners in place. You are now ready to install the inner door seal and complete any other renovations you desire.