How hard is it to remove the headliner in a Suburban?

[hidesertwheelin]

I want to take mine out to properly mount the roof rack to the roof (instead of the self tapping screws I am using now ). Do I just need to remove all the trim pieces? Can it be removed without destroying it?

 

[socoinslo]

Yeah you have to remove all the upper trim pieces and the rear ac cover if you have one. Whether or not you will be able to reinstall it is going to depend on the condition of the headliner. That backer board is like a heavy cardboard material so it can be a little fragile (at least it is in my 89). I would definitely get someone to help hold it while removing it so it doesn't get cracked while removing and reinstalling. Maybe even two helpers.

 

[89yimmiJ]

Sorry to answer your question with another question, but....have you considered using nutserts instead of the self-tapping screws? They transfer the load to the underside of the sheetmetal pretty well.

 

[dyeager535]

Are those things double wall in the back like the cabs, or just single wall?

I would think if double wall, nutserts or well nuts would be the better choice.

 

[hidesertwheelin]

Sorry to answer your question with another question, but....have you considered using nutserts instead of the self-tapping screws? They transfer the load to the underside of the sheetmetal pretty well.

I actually didn't even think of that. Thanks.

 

[dhcomp]

Neither are needed if you attached it like stock.

Yes, its easy to remove. Remove all trim, including side window trim in the back.

It will drop down once trim is removed. The fabric/foam may not be in good shape, but the rest is just cardboard . Should be pretty easy to remove without damage.

The width necessitates a special headliner material width if you are trying to recover it. Have a small pro shop do it. I ruined all the fabric i bought when i failed. Had to pay someone to do it on try 2.