How-To Paint Interior, Make your own Custom Interior Cheap! Options

[Tranceman]

I've had my 96 ST for a week, and this was so simple I thought I'd share it with everyone. I painted a black interior metallic silver, and it came out fantastic. Just follow these steps:

Tools/Equipment:
Flathead Screwdriver, Phillips Screwdriver, Dupli-Color paint of choice (ie-silver), Primer for "Trim Accessories" (choose color closest to what you want, I chose grey), Clear Coat Spray, Rubbing Alcohol, Cottonballs

1. Use the flathead screwdriver to prop the plastic pieces out from the dash. It's best to apply tape to the end of the screwdriver to avoid scratches.

2. When removing the large, center piece around the headunit, be sure to carefully disconnect the 3 plugs attached before yanking the piece away. When removing the lower center piece around the clutch, again be sure to unplug the 3 wires before removing. (If you decide on removing the lower console pieces, you will need to remove several screws with the Phillips screwdriver as well as 2 bolts with a wrench from inside the console itself.)

3. Apply rubbing alcohol to cottonballs and thoroughly wipe down each piece you plan on painting and allow to dry.

4. Apply one coat of primer to each piece and let dry

5. Apply 2-3 coats Dupli-Color to each piece and let dry one hour before applying clear coat

6. Apply 1-2 coats of Clear Coat and let dry

7. Re-install and enjoy!

[Tranceman]

OK, for those who are goin all out like I am, I decided to paint the whole center console, the entire gauge area, and the glove box. These pieces are a bit more tricky to remove, and you will need a wrench or socket wrench with 1/2" bit, as well as Phillips screwdriver.

Under the center piece where the clutch is you will find 4 screws, 2 up top and 2 down low. You will find 2 nuts inside the center console that must be removed also. There are 2 small bolts way down by the inside of the seats. There is a screw under the glove box, as well as a screw under the ignition. The fun part begins now, as you will have to remove the wires that attach the A/C unit, or you will not be able to remove the piece. Removing the 3 wires and disconnecting the A/C entirely will enable you to remove the entire center piece where the emergency brake is located.

To remove the glove box, open it and remove the 3 screws up top. Lastly there is 1 screw down to the right, but, to find this you must remove or lift up the long plastic piece running along side the door.

To remove the gauge pieces, there are a number of screws that are clearly visible. Again, there is one screw to the bottom left that is hidden under the plastic piece running along the door.

Any questions?