57 Shrinking Vinyl Help Needed

[Susan M.]

The vinyl on the interior door panels of my 57 seems to have become too short to stay under the chrome strip that runs above the arm rest creating a small gap between the vinyl and the bright trim. Anyone have any tricks to recommend? The vinyl is in really good shape for its age. I was thinking of trying to stretch it by heating and lubricating it a bit... but I have no idea if there's a better idea. THANKS!!

[Bruce B.]

Re: 57 Shrinking Vinyl Help Needed

Susan,

I am having the same problem (different place on panel) with my Al Knoch door panels.
Granted they are old (10-20 years) and held up well but.......
They are shrinking at the top about 2-3 inches from the front of the door, no fix for mine.
You might be able to strech the vinyl but I think it will shrink back as there is no good way to fasten it to the panel in my opinion.

Bruce B

[Susan M.]

Re: 57 Shrinking Vinyl Help Needed

thanks Bruce, I was hoping there was a home remedy out there... I hate to give up on my 50+ year old panels!!

[Bruce B.]

Re: 57 Shrinking Vinyl Help Needed

Susan,
Ther might possibly be a way to fake it.
There is bendable aluminum trim (in different widths) available ( street rod stuff) that you might be able to use to replace the original SS trim.
Or you might be able to fabricate a piece of flat SS to slip under the original trim, although unbending the tabs on the original trim is risky due to age and corrossion.
Or you can just enjoy your 57 as is.
Bruce B

[Steven B.]

Re: 57 Shrinking Vinyl Help Needed

Susan, I have the original door panels, dash upholstery and headliner on my '57. I am afraid stretching will either pull the stitching apart, tear the vinyl and light backing or both. I have researched a number of places, including vinyl manufacturers, a museum, and upholstery shops, to find a way to restore cracks, tears, and shrinkage so you can't detect with no luck.

Steve

[Susan M.]

Re: 57 Shrinking Vinyl Help Needed

Thanks. The tabs are pretty fragile looking. I think some are sure to break if I try to remove the ss trim. Enjoying it as is or replacing it with a new panel seems the likely scenario at this point. I hate giving up on these old original parts! Stay well, Susan

[Susan M.]

Re: 57 Shrinking Vinyl Help Needed

Hi Steve, Given the minimal reply on the tech board, I suspect your research reflects what others have found... Too bad! Susan

[Bruce B.]

Re: 57 Shrinking Vinyl Help Needed

Susan,
Can you post a few pictures of the problem areas?

[Susan M.]

Re: 57 Shrinking Vinyl Help Needed

sure! I will take them tomorrow... too late tonight! thanks!!

[Susan M.]

Re: 57 Shrinking Vinyl Help Needed

DSC_0272.jpgDSC_0274.jpgDSC_0273.jpg


here are the photos. its hard to see but there is a gap of about 1/4" just above the door pull/armrest.

[Bruce B.]

Re: 57 Shrinking Vinyl Help Needed

Susan,
The door panel looks to be in great condition other then the shrinkage.
If you take a putty knife (2" wide) can you push the vinyl down to be even or behind the top of the SS trim?
If you can then possibly you could use contact cement to glue it in place. A delicate procedure but doable.
That might keep it looking good for a while.
Bruce B

[Susan M.]

Re: 57 Shrinking Vinyl Help Needed

If you push it down there's still that little gap... I am thinking a little heat might soften the vinyl... then i can try that contact cement you suggest... thanks for all your help..