The installation of interior carpeting in the MGB is a restoration task that can be undertaken by vehicle owners. The process involves removing existing materials, fitting side panels, and carefully adhering carpeting to the floorboards and other interior surfaces. Proper installation addresses both aesthetic improvements and potential health concerns related to mold and mildew growth in older materials. This article details the steps and considerations for a successful MGB carpet installation, based on available documentation.
Initial Considerations and Material Removal
Re-carpeting an MGB addresses issues with decaying cut-pile carpet, which can harbor mold and mildew, potentially impacting respiratory health. Before beginning the installation process, it is necessary to remove the existing seats, side panels, and old carpeting. The documentation highlights the importance of verifying the fitment of side-rail carpet pieces before permanently gluing them into place, starting with the front piece. Careful cutting may be required to accommodate seatbelt holes, and gussets may be needed in rear pieces to ensure a flat fit.
Trunk Carpet Installation Sequence
Specific guidance is available regarding the order of installation for trunk carpeting. One user’s experience suggests a sequence beginning with the wheel well/sides, followed by the bulkhead, and concluding with the trunk floor. This approach mirrors the general principle of starting at the edges and working towards the center, a technique also recommended for cockpit carpet installation. The trunk carpet installation also involves a panel for the rear lights, fuel neck, and wiring, which should be removable and installed on top of the wheel well carpets. The tire cover is the final piece to be installed, simply sitting on top of the spare tire.
Cockpit Carpet Installation: Detailed Steps
The cockpit carpet installation requires a methodical approach. The process begins with installing the side-rail carpets, ensuring a secure adhesion. Next, the rear wheelwell pieces are installed; molded kits are designed for a flat fit, while unmolded kits may benefit from being heated to improve their conformation to the vehicle’s contours. On later model cars, the carpet must be cut to expose the rear seatbelt mounting bosses.
The rear kickup carpet is installed next, with the vinyl tab carefully positioned on the battery ledge before forming the carpet towards the floorboards. Trimming will be necessary at the sill rails to achieve a proper fit. “Scrap” pieces from the kit are used to cover exposed steel areas around the wheelwells.
Footwell installation requires meticulous gluing, starting with the tunnel-side material and then the firewall panel. Later cars may have factory-installed self-tapping screws securing the firewall panel; users can locate existing holes or drill new ones in the bulkhead. The same process is repeated for the passenger’s side footwell.
Replacement carpet kits often include carpet for behind the brake handle, replacing the original black vinyl. Installation involves unscrewing the handle, moving it away from the tunnel, cutting a slit in the carpet, and lowering it into place. Trans-tunnel padding, if not pre-affixed to the carpet, should be installed and trimmed to clear the seatbelt mounting boss. The front carpet is then attached, followed by the tunnel carpet around the shifter opening. A small hole is cut for the lever and enlarged after fitting.
Underseat carpet installation requires locating seat holes with an awl and cutting corresponding circles of carpet and padding. Finally, interior panels are installed, with the carpet trimmed as needed.
Snap Installation and Final Touches
Modern replacement kits incorporate snaps on the footwell and battery-cover carpets, allowing for easy removal for drying or access to the battery compartment. Male snaps are riveted through the vinyl edge of the kick-up carpet and tonneau (if equipped). The final steps involve installing the seats, aligning the alloy and wooden spacers, placing the battery cover carpet and floor mats, and completing the interior restoration.
Utilizing Available Resources
While Victoria British, Ltd. previously offered detailed installation instructions with color photos, these are now available as scanned image files, noted as somewhat fuzzy. Obtaining a print copy directly from Victoria British is recommended. Moss Motors now owns Victoria British, and their catalogues and special editions for interior and carpet installation may also be valuable resources. A knowledge base has been compiled to consolidate information from various sources, aiming to simplify the search process for relevant details. One user specifically referenced a 1972 MGB Journal as a helpful resource for hands-on experience and tips to avoid common mistakes.
Conclusion
Installing new carpeting in an MGB is a manageable restoration project for owners. The process requires careful removal of old materials, methodical installation of new components, and attention to detail, particularly when cutting and fitting carpets around various interior features. Utilizing available resources, such as installation guides and online forums, can significantly enhance the success of the project. The benefits extend beyond aesthetics, addressing potential health concerns associated with deteriorated carpeting and improving the overall driving experience.