Re: step by step, inch by inch

[KSMITH1@mailgw.sanders.lockheed.com]

McMurray Michael said in part:

"So, any suggestions on headliner cleaner.  Mine is filthy, really 
needs a bath.  Once I get this little task done I'll be that much 
closer to my UltraAudi."

For both my Audis I have used Prestone upholstery cleaner (red can 
with plastic brush integrated with top).  It is very!!! messy, but 
effective.  In addition to following the directions on the can, cover 
what you aren't cleaning.  On the second car I used it on, I removed 
the front seats and the rear seat bottom, draped the doors, the front 
console area, removed the center consoles, and draped the rear and 
seat back, and floors.  (Did the floors later).  Also removed the 
assist handle/coat hook assemblies.

The reason for this is that the stuff spots the vinyl and leather 
until they are cleaned and re-armoralled/zymoled (as appropriate), and 
working on the headliner is awkward without room to move about the 
interior.  (With the seats out one can relube the tracks, fix the l.h. 
seat bolster (another subject), and repair any seat heater 
deficiencies.  With the center console removed, one can tear into the 
differential switch and clean out previous occupants' soft drink 
residue.

Also, be sure to not delay in cleaning the window glass where the 
Prestone oversprays, as the residue is not apparently soluble in 
anything I have tried after it dries.  (A razor blade can be used, but 
is relatively hazardous to the rear window defroster wires.)  

The Prestone cleaner converted a tobacco-colored headliner to the 
light beige color that it likely started as.  It also cleaned the 
dirt/grease spots around the sunroof.  It is particularly effective on 
greasy hand prints on the white vinyl A and B pilars.  For there, I 
put it on a rag and wipe, then clean off.  Plan on running a lot of 
water buckets to your car to use to dilute the cleaner picked up in 
the sponge or cloth you are using to clean with.  Also expect to use 
several bath towells to pat semi-dry the headliner.  A helper helps.

Expect to use about 1.5 cans.  Don't stop until the entire headliner 
is done, so no water line developes.  Another 1.5 cans can be used on 
the rug if you are still motivated.

Good luck

***                 ...Kirby    (Kirby A. Smith)                 ***
***                      2 X 1988 90q                            ***
***              ksmith1@mailgw.sanders.lockheed.com             ***
***              [=]   kirby.a.smith@lmco.com                    ***
***  Opinions expressed herein are entirely those of the author. ***