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I’ve already posted an inquiry in the parts wanted sub-forum but have not had any replies. Forgive me if my duplicate inquiry seems excessive. I am looking to restore or replace the black interior door panels for my ‘70 Cutlass wagon project. My existing panels are likely restorable in the right hands, but may be beyond economical repair. If anyone has a good reliable/reputable source for restoration, I’d sincerely appreciate the advise. I feel as though I’ve gone way too far in at this point to cut corners. Thanks for any valuable input.
Take them to a local upholstery shop and ask. You'd be surprised what they can do. I just had the lower door panels on my '77 Toronado redone by a local shop. The panels weren't in as bad a shape as yours, but it can't hurt to ask. Go to more than one shop and see what you can find out.
Here's mine, before and after, driver's side. I think the redone panel looks better than the original did before it became damaged.
Last edited by jaunty75; June 13th, 2021 at 09:57 AM.
I think Legendary is the best solution, the vinyl on your panels would be difficult to repair/repaint, plus new carpet…
Good luck getting more-door panels from Legendary.
The question is, how much do you want to spend? I'm not aware of any upholstery shop that can replicate the factory head-sealed seams between the pleats. They can make something that looks nice, but it won't be original style. The only option I'm aware of to get correct door panels is SMS. They have the equipment and materials to properly replicate the panels with the correct heat sealed pleats and the foil trim. It will be outrageously expensive but at least they will be excruciatingly slow. Took them 18 months to turn around the panels for my 67 Delta. The work is phenomenal, and I wanted correct Teal panels. Just don't expect rapid turnaround, despite their promises.
Jaunty, your door panels look great! Funkwagon, I assume these are for your flat top wagon. Unfortunately, I don't think Legendary or any of the other "regular" suppliers like PUI make wagon door panels. Having them recovered will be your best bet. You will not be able to get the exact pattern from a local upholstery shop (heat pressed) but you should be able to get something close. If you are looking for an exact duplicate of what you have and money is no object, another place that might be able to help is just dashes. Be prepared for an astronomically high bill though.
Last edited by Loaded68W34; June 13th, 2021 at 12:33 PM.
I have no direct experience and am just throwing out a possible (?) solution. Could two-door panel coverings be made to work by trimming or wrapping, in light of the extra length?
I have no direct experience and am just throwing out a possible (?) solution. Could two-door panel coverings be made to work by trimming or wrapping, in light of the extra length?
The 2dr panels aren't even close to the patterns the OP needs for his wagon. Also, the kick-up at the rear of the back doors will not be covered by the 2dr upholstery.
Funkwagon I have not forgot about you. I have found the door panels...now to dig them out. Hopefully some time this week.
Don W
Thank you for your effort Don, I am still grateful for your NOS air deflector gaskets! Even if they are not black, I’d be interested if the substrate is intact to transfer my facias.😃
Thanks for all replies and suggestions. I ordered new panels on Monday from SMS in Oregon. Sent my old panels/visors up today for the bargain price of $91.😩
June 13th, 2021, 09:47 AM
