Mercedes 500SL (1992) Hardtop Retrim
This project shows our customer Savas and his 1992 Mercedes 500SL.
The hardtop headlining was retrimmed using black stretch suede. Replacing the original ageing fabric gave the interior a refresh.
The R129 hardtop uses a flat headlining panel. This makes it a good candidate for a clean retrim once the original material starts to sag.
What Was Done
- Vehicle: Mercedes 500SL (1992)
- Roof type: Hardtop
- Area retrimmed: Headlining
- Material used: Black stretch suede
How Much Material Was Used
- Total used: 1.5 metres
This gave Savas a 1.5m x 1.5m square piece.
An ideal size for covering the hardtop panel. As is always the case enough to fold over the edges and trim down any excess.
Preparing the Headliner
Before fitting the new suede. Savas spent time removing the old foam backing from the headlining panel.
He used a soft to medium brush to clean away the loose, degraded foam. This left a clean headliner ready for adhesive. The brush brittles need to be firm enough to remove the foam whilst making sure not to damage the headliner. Some customers use drill brushes.
This step is important. Any old foam left behind can affect how well the new material bonds and hinder the desired smooth finish.
About the Installation
- The flat hardtop panel suited stretch suede well
- Using a single square piece helped keep the job neat and manageable
- Taking time during preparation and fitting helped achieve a clean, even finish
