'89 Pace Arrow headliner sagging

[Wendy Updegrave]

Please forgive me. I have searched for 2 hours and cannot find how to fix the sagging ceiling in our '89 Pace Arrow. We tried adhesive twice. It came down both times. I know we should scrape off the deteriorated foam but what do we replace that with? How do we remove the trim work between the sections, does it pop off? The trim shop suggested pulling the headliner taught and stapling where the trim goes. Is this good advise? Thank you.

[Rich Thomas]

Hi Wendy, one problem with foam backing is adhesives just kind of eat into the foam and it fails. Try contacting an auto upholstery shop for tips on gluing foam and what they use. I'd like to know what type of adhesives will hold under the heat of my camper. I would like to put a covering on the walls and ceiling of my bathroom. I thought about 3-M 777 spray on but, it says on the can not for auto upholstery so I'm in kind of in the same boat. hope this helps a little and good luck on your repairs. 

[Wendy Updegrave]

Thanks for your reply,

We used 3-M headliner adhesive. I am sure it would work if the foam was in good condition. Going to try to remove the trim and staple. I'll post pictures if I can. 

[Lakota Wolf]

The 3m adhesives work, BUT NOT with the foam backing ,as with most headliners. The foam deteriates and the adhesives just afixes to the foam which isnt structuraly sound and it just lets go.. You would have to remove the foam insulation down to the main board and use the adhesive, but as the can states, its NOT for automotive applications due to variences with temps. Ive attempted different ways to keep the headliners up with ultimate fails. I have replaced the original headliner material with cotton fabric material from a sewing place and used roll on adhesive made for material. That requires removing the headliner panel board, because working with it above your head is a royal pain.

[Wendy Updegrave]

I am having trouble removing the overhead trim. I don't want to break it! Anyone have any suggestions on how to remove it?

[Lakota Wolf]

Without actually seeing what your working with,,, the trim is usually held in with snap clips.

(unless you see screws along the trim work). It can be tricky with the snap clips.A little wiggling they usually pop out. My 79 dodge had the clips and they came out pretty easy, but along the windshield area, it had screws.  Youtube might have something about removing trim panels along the headliner. Possibly under *replacing a headliner? 

[Wendy Updegrave]

I've been looking all over and can't find the style I have. I was able to get the trim out in a cabinet so I don't think I am doing it wrong. It is just not coming out! It is a "T" shaped piece in a channel. Maybe it got glued in place by our last attempts. I'll keep trying...

Thanks for your help!

[Wendy Updegrave]

Woo-hoo! Just got it. Helpful hint. If plastic putty knives are not enough, add plastic spatulas!

[Russell E Johnson]

Necessity really is the mother of invention, congratulations!

[Lakota Wolf]

Hey,, another PLUS to Tupperware products,, good endorsement,, mail them and ask for royalties.. We are only limited to our imagination.  Great job Wendy.