BillMurphy

There was a time when even the professional had never done one before

So you do just push the headliner into the metal strips? And the teeth hold it? Is there a tool to do this? I'm not worried about perfection because any headliner is better than none which is what I have now. Also at the top of the windshield there looks to be what's left of a felt strip. Is this what is referred to as a tacking strip? Is the headliner just tucked into this? Thanks for your help!

That would work, but I need to do this myself.

I've been looking for a "how to" book to replace the headliner in my 50 Desoto 4dr. I've researched the net, bought a generic interior book, which is fine if I'm working on a 55 Chevy, but cant find a how to do Chrysler products of this vintage. One of the things that stumps me is what holds the headliner/windlace over the doors? Are they just shoved into the metal strips that are screwed in there? (doesn't seem right). Any publications you guys can suggest? Thanks!

For me I would need the '46-'50 which looks to me to be the most simple.

Sorry guys, I was just trying to think ahead in case I run into this problem. Just trying to cover my bases in case "Murphy's Law" strikes. I should have done more research before posting, because I have found that graphite round stock is available. It is nasty to work with. The dust needs a vacuum system to control because wet machining permeates the graphite. There are companies that will machine graphite for you. I don't know the cost, but a simple ring may be not so bad. I didn't contact them because I don't have dimensions from an original. Perhaps the way to go would be to make a few and try to recoup costs by selling some. As far as tools, I think there are ways around that as others have posted about before. If I offended, my apologies. I may never need a way out of this problem, but I feel more confident that I have a plan

mopar-earl, I know you were defending my thread, I was just mentioning the rebuilding thing for people who tuned in late. I once worked for a well known antique auto parts supplier ,who advertises in Hemmings. We were always talking about ways to duplicate obsolete parts. I guess I find that kind of problem solving interesting. That was the meaning of this particular thread vs my other one. Roll it all into one thread, all is cool.

mopar-earl, I wasn't asking for a rebuilder, I was casting out about a way to come up with an alternative to a long obsolete part. I thought this might be interesting to ponder and discuss. Guess not. But I did learn "if it aint broke don't fix it". but thanks, I thought it was me.... Bill

I thought they were different enough topics because I was asking if there may be a way to make new seals. I'll stop now.

Given the fact the graphite seals are not easy to come by, I'm surprised no one is reproducing them. I'm sure graphite isn't pleasant to work with, (I'm sure it would need to be machined wet). There are a lot of Fluid Drive cars still around so there has to be a market, I would think. I also wonder if there could be a more modern substitution. Teflon? like Teflon buttons for wrist pins? Nylon? there are all types and some can withstand high heat. If a Fluid Drive isn't leaking yet there is no guaranty it wont leak in the future, so once again there is a market. Before you invite me to do it, I don't own a machine shop which is a stumbling block....Thoughts?

Hi Don, I read it all (actually read most of it before I posted). Not sure what you are trying to tell me. Northwest Transmission? Convert to 3 speed?

I haven't gotten to pull the trans yet, but I realize replacing the graphite seal and bellows requires special tools that I will never find. Is there a place I could send my fluid coupling to have the job done? I bought the car with the motor apart, so I'm not sure it leaks, but in the pile of parts I got with the car was a new bellows. I'm assuming the previous owner had it for a reason. I need to pull the motor anyway, which means pull the trans, so I'd like to not have to do that all over again. I tried to look this up before posting but was unsuccessful. Thanks, Bill

Thanks Harold, Its actually an acquired taste turned addiction

Now it makes sense, Thank You!

Great place here!, coming from another newbie. I probably paid too much for my non running 50 DeSoto, but all I have to do is go look at it sitting in my garage to feel good. I could have easily blown that much money on scratch tickets or booze and have nothing to show for it , except remorse.

There is a metal strip under the front door (drivers) that seems to have what's left of the weatherstrip attached to it. There has to be a reason for it. I was wondering if I should reuse it or try and duplicate it if it's too far gone. Any ideas on its purpose? Have you reused yours or just glued the weatherstrip directly to the door? Thanks, Bill

More pics show the original (poor) paint but that's how its gonna stay.

Thanks to all !

Hi, I'm Bill from the Boston area, and the proud new owner of a 1950 Desoto Custom 4dr. I wasn't looking for a Desoto particularly, but an old project car I could afford. When I saw this Desoto staring back at me with its big beautiful bullseye headlights on Craigslist, I just couldn't resist. Its not my first old car project, but its my first old Chrysler Corp. car. I am enjoying learning the engineering of it. I have learned a lot here already, but I know I'll be asking questions as I work towards giving this car life again. Thanks in advance!, Bill