Headliner replacement - windows in or out?

[rmchrgr]

The headliner and roof insulation in my Challenger is basically disintegrating so I'm going to replace it. Do the front and rear windows need to come out?

On my Duster, the window gasket sits on top of the retention spike things making it nearly impossible to stretch the fabric onto them evenly. I tried to install a headliner once with the windows in and it was a disaster. A few years later I re-did it with the windows removed and it came out perfect - no question the windows had to be out.

However, since there's no traditional window gasket on an E body, the retention teeth seem to be much easier to access. Plus, they are covered by the window surround trim to hide them.

So how difficult is it to get the material stretched tight and evenly with the windows in? The sides should be no problem, just concerned about the front and rear. Looks doable but I'm not 100% sure as I've never done an E body headliner.

Also, the OE material has a sort of pattern and is not just plain perforated material. Looking at the Legendary website, they call it Weymouth. Is that what I need to get?

Note pattern.

[blown motor]

I had someone replace mine 10 years ago and the windows stayed in. Maybe J @jimynick will chime in. I think he did his own.

[rmchrgr]

Thanks. Seems like the windows can stay in but want to confirm before I yank out the old one.

[dodj]

I replaced my headliner with the windows in. Easier with them out...but not 100% necessary

[1970Cuda]

Great discussion and I am glad I found this thread, because I am actually working on installing the headliner too on my project and my windshield and rear window are currently out and I was planning on having them installed next week!

As far as I can tell, since it doesn't use a gasket like the earlier (pre-1970s) models do, the teeth seem to be completely accessible with the window installed. However, what I have noticed is that the sides is where there could be an interference issue when the weather-strip channel is already installed. Anyone have experience installing the headliner in this instance?

[Floyd]

@1970Cuda

...what I have noticed is that the sides is where there could be an interference issue when the weather-strip channel is already installed. Anyone have experience installing the headliner in this instance?

Can't speak for a-bodies, but the weatherstrip channel was in-place when I had my headliner installed.  Front and rear windshields were out but I don't think having them in would have prevented the installation.

[1970Cuda]

@1970Cuda

...what I have noticed is that the sides is where there could be an interference issue when the weather-strip channel is already installed. Anyone have experience installing the headliner in this instance?

Can't speak for a-bodies, but the weatherstrip channel was in-place when I had my headliner installed.  Front and rear windshields were out but I don't think having them in would have prevented the installation.

Thanks Floyd for the feedback! Now that I have read this thread it seems that it is OK to have the windshield and rear window installed before I install the headliner. Even if it turns out to be a bit more difficult to install the headliner, I want to keep progress going on my restoration. And I am still waiting for a few parts for the headliner (the padding).

On a separate note, I like how you removed the dome light housing from the actual socket assembly. I can tell that makes it a whole lot easier to install and cleaner too.

[Floyd]

@1970Cuda - Recommend putting all of the various screws (visor, rear view mirror, shoulder strap, coat hanger, etc) in-place prior to headliner install as well.  After install, you can feel for the screw heads and make careful cuts in the fabric with an x-acto to expose.

[1970 cuda Joe]

@1970Cuda - Recommend putting all of the various screws (visor, rear view mirror, shoulder strap, coat hanger, etc) in-place prior to headliner install as well.  After install, you can feel for the screw heads and make careful cuts in the fabric with an x-acto to expose.

Exactly. You'll be glad later. Easier to find a little bump.....Joe

[1970Cuda]

@1970Cuda - Recommend putting all of the various screws (visor, rear view mirror, shoulder strap, coat hanger, etc.) in-place prior to headliner install as well.  After install, you can feel for the screw heads and make careful cuts in the fabric with an x-acto to expose.

That is a great idea too Floyd. I hadn't thought of that before and it will certainly make it easier when installing those components. Thanks for the suggestion.