Читать книгу Automotive Upholstery & Interior Restoration - Fred Mattson - Страница 7

INTRODUCTION

My goal for writing this book is to pass along some knowledge and spark interest in vintage car restoration. It is my intent to leave you with enough information to take on a project and complete it with confidence and success.

Through years of research and conversations, I have learned a trade that has brought me much joy and pain. Learning about the evolution of the automobile and then applying that knowledge to the restoration of these wonderful works of art gives me much satisfaction. Turning junk into gems is a fulfilling endeavor. I wish you the joy of being a part of the auto trimmer trade.

Except For …

The one phrase I hear all the time from car enthusiasts is “except for.” My seats are in excellent condition … except for this one seam that is split. The top on my car is like new … except for the rear window that is yellow and difficult to latch. My car is perfect … except for the mouse hole in the headliner.

What I know for sure is, the seat springs are broken, the foam has deteriorated, and the burlap foundation is dry rotted. When the convertible top binding is cracking and it is almost impossible to latch, it is time for a whole new top. Oh, and a mouse hole means a nest and a lot of mouse dirt is lurking just overhead.

Just because a car interior looks good, doesn’t mean that it is serviceable. After 45 years or more of use, compounded by exposure to the elements, everything inside the car needs extensive repair and replacement. Factor in animal and insect infestations, and you have a smelly, filthy mess that is crying out to be replaced with clean and fresh materials.

Most car owners believe that restoring their car’s interior will be really expensive. Well, it is expensive if you go about it the wrong way. You can save money on restoring the interior of your car if you know a few things.

Why Restore the Interior

The interior makes up one third of the car. The engine is one third and the body and paint are one third. Unfortunately, the interior doesn’t get one third of the budget and often becomes an afterthought when it comes to your restoration dollars. As the driver, you will spend a lot of time sitting inside the car. Why wouldn’t you want a nice, comfortable interior?

The value of your car increases dramatically if the interior is in prime condition. An old, worn-out, and damaged interior only detracts from the value of the car.

You can save money by restoring your interior yourself, if you are smart about it. Knowing your limitations and preplanning make all the difference in any restoration. Do not start buying stuff just because it is a “good” deal. Online “box” houses do not care what you buy; they just want you to buy. It is up to you to know exactly what type of car you are working on; purchasing the wrong parts can be an expensive mistake.

Changes cost money. Redoing something because you changed your mind about it costs money. Moreover, if you find yourself in over your head after purchasing interior materials, hiring the wrong trimmer will cost you money.

Working with a true professional gets you the best products for the best price. They also know how to properly install the interior components. If you are a hands-on person looking to restore a dream car, this book will help guide you in the right direction. Any task can be accomplished in many ways, but there is only one way to restore a cars’ interior: the right way.