I have never cared much for the carpet on the console side panels, so I decided to switch to vinyl when I replaced the carpet last month. I was not sure the replacements from Eckler's would match, and $160 seemed a bit high to me. So to ensure an exact match to my Fiero seats, I bought a yard of the same leatherette material as my Fiero seat covers from Mr. Mike. I am pleased with how they turned out:



Here are step-by-step instructions for anyone who is interested in doing this themselves.

Material list:
- 2' x 4' sheet of 1/8" hardboard (Menard's - $6)
- 1 yard 1/8" Foam Back Upholstery Cloth (ebay - $12)
- 2/3 yard midnight leatherette vinyl (Mr. Mike - $18)
- Upholstery Adhesive (left over from Fiero seat installation)

The original panels were shot - warped, torn, and ragged:


I had to clamp them down flat to get a good trace. Don't forget to trace the mounting holes!


Cut out with a jigsaw. Test fit and trim as needed.




I did not notice how much the panels need to bow until I saw the contrasting colors (original carpet was doeskin). If you do not use the same hardboard as the factory panels, make sure you use material that will flex.


Based on tips from Mr. Mike - use 1/8" foam with felt backing. Also a pic of the spray adhesive.


Spray the felt side of the foam, and the front side of the console. Let both get tacky then press together.


Trim the foam, leaving 1/8" overhang to soften the edge of the wrapped vinyl. I cut the back edge flush because it was a tight fit.


Trace and cut the vinyl about 1 1/2" wider than the panel. I cut the overhang into tabs for a cleaner wrap:




Spray adhesive ONLY on the back side of the tabs, and about 1 1/2" onto the hardboard. DO NOT glue the vinyl to the foam. Let the adhesive get tacky then fold and stick the tabs. Go lightly at first and flip to check the fit. If it looks good, press firmly together.




Let the glue dry for a couple days. I had one tab on each panel pop up over night. I re-glued them and had no more problems.

I cut out the mounting holes where they were vinyl covered, and punched a scribe through to mark the screw location:


I had a slight wrinkle at the narrow points, but that should be hidden by the seats. Evidence I am a rookie at upholstery!




I'll add a couple more pictures when I get the seats back in this weekend.

 

Look great!

 

Nice job Doug. I'll be doing my interior soon.

 

Great job. I had a similar idea about 12 years ago and had my side covers in vinyl by the shop that did my vert top. Looks so much better than carpet.