Leather linning

[Mrbrylcreem]

Hello again. I was wondering if anyone had a suggestion to how I might be able to flatten  these small side leather panels.

[MBF]

 It looks likes yours have succumbed to moisture and age just like the rest of ours.  The cardboard backed pieces were probably never figured to last this long.  They're probably too deteriorated to do much of any repair work unless you're really patient.  What I did, was to use the existing pieces as patterns for a luan backed replacement pieces.   It was a fun project using the luan, leatherette and a contact adhesive to make the new panels.   I carefully removed the originals so that I could use the existing screw holes to remount them.  They're not perfect by any means, but they suit me, and will be much more durable that the originals.   If they last another 60 yrs, that will be fine.  I'll only be 120 by then.   Mike

[Mrbrylcreem]

Mike

 

Hello and many thanks for the reply. Luan is this a type of wood that you used. I am not familiar with this term.

[ggdad1951]

Luan more commonly known as the mahogany looking 1/4" plywood you get at the local big box hardware store.

[_shel_ny]

It's lauan, and commonly comes in 1/8". Actually most any 1'8" wood paneling would work, as it is being covered anyway. I used some cheaper dunnage panels when doing the interior of a Dogde B100, and also for an Astro van. Again, the materials were being attached, and the wood panels not seen again. Might also try "google" for 1/8" hardboard as another possibility. Moisture resistant kitchen/bath hardboard.  Damaged sheets of all the above are often available at reduced prices.

 

Both quite common here in the USA. Your availability may vary in your location.