'40 coupe wind lace LB

[russcc]

Need to replace the wind lace in the '40 coupe. Got some samples of wind lace from LB. They sent several size/configuration samples; 1/2" "Foamcore" with a 1/2" selvage, 3/8" "Hosecore" with a 3/4" selvage and "Wireon" with some form of double core and a 3/8" selvage. Which is the correct size/configuration for the '40 ? I prefer the foamcore material, but in the 3/8" size with a 3/4" selvage. What's right and what works best. Thank you Fordbarners.

[john worden]

Did you ask LB for the correct windlace for a 40 coupe? They have it and can send an instruction sheet for it's placement in the car.

[TJ]

If you are going to replace the windlace do not forget to replace all the tack strips. The old original tack strips are probably shot by now.

[john worden]

Originally Posted by TJ

If you are going to replace the windlace do not forget to replace all the tack strips. The old original tack strips are probably shot by now.

Excellent advice.

[19Fordy]

Here are photos of the LB windlace I saved that was in my 1940 Ford coupe interior kit that I bought in 1978. It is 3/8 dia. rubber hose with a 3/4 in. selvege. Also shown is the way to make the 45 degree miter as per the LB instructions. Use your old wind lace to first make a few practice miters.

[19Fordy]

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More. info.

[19Fordy]

And more. Hope this was helpful.

[mike42]

Fordy ...you did a masterful job on that headliner. That's the last thing I need to do and can't bring myself to start it !!

[19Fordy]

Mike, You CAN do it ! I was extremely hesitant also as I had never done it before. The key is to first install new tack strips so that you know you will have zero problems securing the welting. I sprayed the new tacking strips with spray varnish so as to deter deterioration. I see now there is a new kind of plastic tack strip but I used the original style available from www.restorationspecialities.com LB probably has the OEM tack strip also. Then , I carefully removed the old headliner (taking photos as I went). I just knew I could do it if I thought it through and reread the instructions many times until I really felt comfortable about tackling the job myself. My thinking was, "Surely I'm not the first novice to do this so let's give it a try." Just remember to carefully make your cuts and don't forget to allow enough headliner material where the visors screw in. I also used a steamer to get the wrinkles out upon completion. I am sure you can handle the job. Just take it one little step at a time. You don't have to get it all done in one sitting. You do need the tools shown below plus a bottle of CONTACT cement. Also, clean and repaint your headliner bows AND install new roof insulation (not that tar paper stuff) that really reflects the heat. ALSO, don't forget to replace the dome light switch and light wiring, if needed. Once you get the headliner done, you will have even more confidence to do the seats, if needed. That ends my motivation speech. Now, get going.

[TJ]

In addition to 19Fordy's advice mark the bows(number them from front to back) so you don't mix them up. Also mark the holes where they screw into the roof. If they are rusty sand off the rust and use some spray paint to seal them up. In addition you might consider some insulation to be glued into the roof.

[19Fordy]

The 40 Ford bows are numbered. Number 1 is the furthest to the front.

[TJ]

Originally Posted by 19Fordy

The 40 Ford bows are numbered. Number 1 is the furthest to the front.

Just curious where the numbers are located on the bows. Are they a stamped or cast number?I've put in a couple of 40 headliners and have not seen numbers, but I could have missed them.

[john worden]

A tool worth it's weight in gold for this work is a tack driver. It's a 6" or so bar magnetized on one end to hold a tack for precise placement especially in tight spaces like around the perimeter of the headliner at the package tray.

[19Fordy]

Here's some Fordbarn headliner bow number info. It's been a long time but I think the number is stamped on the flat end of each bow. Can't recall if it's left or right side of car.
https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?p=653911
https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?p=1212971

[TJ]

Originally Posted by 19Fordy

Here's some Fordbarn headliner bow number info. It's been a long time but I think the number is stamped on the flat end of each bow. Can't recall if it's left or right side of car.
https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?p=653911
https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?p=1212971

Thanks for the link info.

[russcc]

Great info, thank you all. LB told me that the '40 uses a 1/2" Foamcore with a
1-1 1/4" selvage. I believe I am talking to sales reps as some of their information is not always seem factual.

[mike42]

Fordy thanks for that info. I'm going to buy the kit from LeBaron Bonney this year. Is all the tacking strips part of it or did you buy separately from RestoSpecs ?

Mike

[john worden]

Originally Posted by mike42

Fordy thanks for that info. I'm going to buy the kit from LeBaron Bonney this year. Is all the tacking strips part of it or did you buy separately from RestoSpecs ?

Mike

Tack strips are not included with kits but can be supplied by LB as are upholstery tools.

[mike42]

ok thx...Worden. I'm just looking at the pictures again from Fordy and I just can't believe what a great job he did on that.

As an old Automotive guy....I just wonder how the assemblers were able to install on the fly on the assembly line back then. I can't believe they were running 60 jobs an hour at that time as they do today !

Thx... Mike

[19Fordy]

Mike: Thanks for the kind words. Your's will be even better. I bought my tacking strips from www.restoration specialities.com but buy them from LB since you are buying their kit. Also, have LB recover your sun visors. Well worth it as they do an excellent job. Here's a few more photos.