Headliner headache

[ricks73]

I'm just about ready to install a headliner in my 73 bug. I've been doing a lot of research on YouTube on how to install one. Jbugs sells orginal headliners and "Easy Install" headliners. Can anyone recommend which to use? Is this something I should tackle or take it to a shop to have it done? Also Jbugs offers 5 different styles, Perforated, Crush, Mohair, Tweed & Velour. Any recommendations?
Thanks!

[glutamodo]

I don't know what "easy install" even means. Since the headliner is glued to the pinch weld of the rear three windows, you have to remove those windows to install it properly. Some headliners have less overall pieces to deal with, true, but to get them installed properly still means you have to remove and replace the rear three windows... and that is not exactly "easy" (but certainly do-able, if you have someone to help you)
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Andy T.


IMAGE NOTE: It has been noted that Chrome based browsers may have issues in displaying my vast image library, which use non-secure links and are on an FTP server. Images should still be viewable if the link is clicked though.
I do not know how to fix this. All I can say is it all works fine for me with what I use, Firefox.

[Chris333]

Doesn't it need the windshield removed as well?

[glutamodo]

No, the windshield has no headliner attachment. the headliner seats back an inch or two from there.

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Andy T.


IMAGE NOTE: It has been noted that Chrome based browsers may have issues in displaying my vast image library, which use non-secure links and are on an FTP server. Images should still be viewable if the link is clicked though.
I do not know how to fix this. All I can say is it all works fine for me with what I use, Firefox.

[Tim Donahoe]

My 1974 Super Beetle would also require removing the front window. I suspect a 1973 Standard would require the same.

I have seen quite a few DIY headliner installs here on this forum. Some look very professional, but in my opinion, about 50% of some others look, unfortunately, like a novice application.

The problem is usually with the tautness of the material. I’ve seen too many sags and wrinkles to count. Since we don’t really need a headliner, it’s not a stretch to say that most owners want one primarily for appearance sake. When the completed project shows wrinkles and sags, it just seems to me to have been a wasted effort. It may look better than a ripped headliner, or one with holes, but only “better”. I like anything done on my Bug to look as nice, or better than it did when it came from the factory. Not better than a forty-plus-year-old original.

For this reason, when I ever replace my headliner, a professional is doing the job. I want it tight—and perfect. Otherwise, I’d just leave the old one on.

When I reupholstered my seats, I had some questionable areas that didn’t look worthy of my cost and labor. So ... I took the front seat bottoms off and redid them until they looked like they should. No weird sagging, etc.

Call me picky, I guess.

Tim
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Let's do the Time Warp again!

Richard O'Brien

[FaanP]

I did mine myself then so can you. I have a 71 and I had to remove all windows.

Start on the back and front windows first. Get about 2 - 3 boxes of the those paper clamp things - in my experience the smaller the better (smaller ones work better in the corners) Don't rush it. It is a 2-day job if you take your time.

As for the style - that is your choice.

[glutamodo]

Okay I've never mucked around with the 68/up tops/headliners before. I quoted the 66 owner's manual above which does reflect my own experience.
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Andy T.


IMAGE NOTE: It has been noted that Chrome based browsers may have issues in displaying my vast image library, which use non-secure links and are on an FTP server. Images should still be viewable if the link is clicked though.
I do not know how to fix this. All I can say is it all works fine for me with what I use, Firefox.

[74 standard]

I just did mine on sunday with an easy install tweed TMI. came out great. Yes you need to take out the windows on a 73. the headliner glues into the window opening. It just takes allot of patience (that's why I had my wife give me a hand Use good contact cement on BOTH surfaces and wait 5 mins for it to dry or become not tacky, THEN make contact. Most people that complain about contact cement don't really understand how the stuff is actually supposed to be used. I found no need for any clamps of any kind. Its not really all that hard.

[TX-73]

Look here, starts about halfway down.

https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=...;start=220
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My 1973 Standard Beetle Build SOLD
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