If you'd like to give your dash and interior fixtures a different look, consider installing an interior trim package. Trim pieces are available in a variety of styles and finishes, are easy to install and provide a distinctive appearance that many people find appealing. For our demonstration, we selected a faux-rosewood trim for the instrument-panel surround and switch plates. Particularly on vehicles that have a dark interior, a wood-grain finish helps brighten the interior and dash while providing a rich, warming tone.
Materials:
Interior trim kit, including trim pieces, chemical primer, etc.
Denatured alcohol
Clean rags
Cotton swabs
Heat gun (optional)
Rubber gloves - We began by installing a rosewood switch plate on the power-window and power-lock controls located on the arm rest. The plate attaches simply by means of adhesive backing. To install the switch plate, first check the trim piece to be sure of a proper fit in the location where it is being installed (figure A).
- Once you've determined that the piece will fit properly, prep the surface of the arm rest by cleaning it using denatured alcohol and a clean cloth. The alcohol will help remove dirt, fingerprints and grease from the surface and ensure good adhesion (figure B).
Tip: Once you've cleaned the surface thoroughly, use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to clean in the crevices and tight spaces (figure B).
- A heat gun can be used to soften the plastic elements just prior to installing them (figure D). This will make installation easier by allowing each piece to conform to surface where it is being installed. If you don't have a heat gun, you can accomplish the same result by laying the plastic pieces on the dashboard, in direct sunlight, for a few minutes before installation.
- The next step in prepping the surface is to apply liquid primer using the felt-tipped dispenser that's included in the kit (figure E). The primer will help guarantee a secure adhesion. Use the tip of the applicator to dab the primer on gently.
Safety precaution: Wear rubber gloves to protect your skin when working with chemical surface-primer.
- Once the primer has been applied, peel the tape backing from the piece (figure F), carefully position it, and press it firmly in place. Hold the piece securely for about a minute before releasing to ensure that it adheres completely.
- Repeat these steps for the dash-trim and other pieces according to the instructions that come with the kit. Simply clean and prep the surface (figure G), peel of the adhesive backing, and press the piece into place (figure H). Press each piece in place for about a minute
RESOURCES :
Ultimate Auto Detailing
Model: 0879389419
Author: David H. Jacobs
(1995)
To order this title from Amazon.com, click here.
Motorbooks International
Some vehicles provided by Beaty Chevrolet
Beaty Chevrolet
9615 Parkside Drive
Knoxville, TN 37922
Phone: 865-693-7712
Web site: beatychevrolet.com
Vehicle trim accessories from RK Sport
Vehicle trim accessories from
RK Sport
251 Airport Road
Oceanside, CA 92054
Toll-free: 800-214-8030
Fax: 760-433-1477
Web site: www.rksport.com
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