Let's dive deep into the world of the 1987 Chevy El Camino SS interior. For enthusiasts and restorers, getting the interior just right is crucial to capturing the vehicle's original charm and enhancing its overall value. This article explores everything from original features to modern upgrades, ensuring your El Camino's interior is both authentic and comfortable.

Understanding the Original 1987 El Camino SS Interior

When restoring a classic like the 1987 El Camino SS, understanding its original interior is paramount. The El Camino SS of 1987 wasn't just about exterior aesthetics; the interior played a significant role in its overall appeal. Back in '87, the El Camino SS offered a blend of sporty design and practical comfort, tailored to appeal to both performance enthusiasts and those seeking a versatile vehicle.

The original seats were typically cloth or vinyl, available in colors that complemented the exterior paint options. These weren't your modern, heavily bolstered sport seats; instead, they provided a comfortable, bench-like feel, suitable for cruising. The dashboard was straightforward, with a functional layout housing essential gauges: speedometer, fuel level, temperature, and sometimes a tachometer, depending on the specific trim and options. These gauges were designed with clear, easy-to-read fonts and were illuminated by incandescent bulbs, giving them a warm glow at night.

Door panels followed a similar design language, often incorporating a mix of vinyl and carpeted lower sections. They usually included simple armrests and manual window cranks (though power windows were available as an option). The headliner, typically made of a cloth material, often suffered from sagging over time, a common issue in vehicles of this era. The carpeting was basic, durable, and color-coordinated with the rest of the interior. Original floor mats, if present, were usually rubber or a thin carpet, bearing the Chevrolet logo.

Understanding these original features is essential because it sets the baseline for any restoration or upgrade project. Knowing what was originally there allows you to make informed decisions about whether to restore to factory condition or incorporate modern enhancements while respecting the vehicle's heritage. For example, if your El Camino SS came with a specific type of cloth seat, you might want to source the same material for a restoration. Conversely, if you're looking to upgrade, knowing the original dimensions and mounting points helps ensure that any aftermarket parts fit correctly and maintain the vehicle's overall aesthetic.

Restoring an El Camino's interior isn't just about aesthetics; it's about preserving a piece of automotive history. By understanding the original design and materials, you can bring your El Camino SS back to its former glory, ensuring it remains a cherished classic for years to come.

Identifying Common Interior Problems

Okay, guys, let's talk about the typical headaches you'll run into when tackling a 1987 El Camino SS interior. These classic rides are awesome, but they're not immune to the ravages of time. Knowing these problems beforehand will save you a ton of hassle.

Sun Damage is a Big One: Years of exposure to the sun can wreak havoc on the interior. Dashboards crack and fade, seat upholstery becomes brittle and tears, and the headliner starts to sag like crazy. The sun's UV rays break down the materials, leading to discoloration and structural damage. This is especially common in areas with intense sunlight, so if your El Camino spent its life baking in the Arizona desert, you'll likely see significant sun damage.

Wear and Tear on Seats: The seats are probably the most used part of the interior, so they take a beating. Expect to see rips, tears, and worn-out padding. The original seat foam tends to compress and crumble over time, making the seats uncomfortable. Plus, the stitching can come undone, leading to further deterioration. Depending on the material, you might also encounter stains and discoloration from spills and general use.

Headliner Sagging: This is almost a given in older cars. The adhesive holding the headliner in place dries out, causing the fabric to droop and sag. It's not just an eyesore; a sagging headliner can also obstruct your view and be a general nuisance. Repairing or replacing the headliner is a common task in El Camino restorations.

Worn Carpets: The carpets endure a lot of abuse, from muddy shoes to spilled drinks. Over time, they become stained, faded, and worn thin. You might also find rust underneath the carpets, especially if there have been any leaks in the car. Replacing the carpets can significantly improve the interior's appearance and eliminate musty odors.

Faulty Gauges: The gauges on the dashboard can become inaccurate or stop working altogether. This can be due to electrical issues, corrosion, or simply old age. Common problems include a non-functioning speedometer, fuel gauge, or temperature gauge. Restoring or replacing these gauges is crucial for monitoring the car's performance and ensuring safe operation.

Broken Trim Pieces: The plastic trim pieces inside the El Camino can become brittle and break over time. This includes door panels, dashboard trim, and console pieces. These pieces are often difficult to find, so you might need to resort to searching junkyards or online forums to locate replacements.

By knowing these common problems, you can better assess the condition of your El Camino's interior and plan your restoration accordingly. Addressing these issues will not only improve the appearance of your vehicle but also enhance its comfort and functionality.

Sourcing Replacement Parts and Materials

Alright, let’s get into where you can find the goodies you need to bring that El Camino interior back to life. Finding the right parts and materials can be a quest, but with a bit of know-how, you’ll be cruising in style in no time.

Specialty Auto Parts Retailers: These guys are your best friends. Companies like Classic Industries, Year One, and OPGI specialize in parts for classic GM vehicles, including the El Camino. Their catalogs are goldmines, offering everything from seat covers and carpets to dashboard components and trim pieces. The advantage here is that they often carry reproduction parts that are made to the original specifications, ensuring a good fit and authentic look. Plus, their websites usually have detailed descriptions and photos, so you know exactly what you’re getting.

Online Marketplaces: Don't underestimate the power of the internet. eBay and Amazon can be great resources for finding parts, especially if you're looking for used or vintage items. You can often find rare or discontinued parts that are no longer available from the major retailers. Just be sure to check the seller's feedback and read the product descriptions carefully before making a purchase.

Local Junkyards: For those who enjoy a bit of treasure hunting, junkyards can be a fantastic source of parts. You might be able to find an El Camino or a similar GM vehicle with usable interior components. This can be a more affordable option, but it requires some elbow grease and a keen eye. Be prepared to get your hands dirty and inspect the parts thoroughly for damage.

Auto Upholstery Shops: If you're planning to reupholster your seats or replace the headliner, an auto upholstery shop is your go-to destination. They can provide you with a wide range of materials, from vinyl and cloth to leather and suede. They can also custom-make seat covers and headliners to your exact specifications. This is a great option if you want a unique or high-end look for your El Camino's interior.

Swap Meets and Car Shows: These events are gatherings of car enthusiasts and vendors selling all sorts of automotive goodies. You can often find rare or hard-to-find parts at swap meets and car shows, and you might even be able to strike a bargain with a seller. Plus, it's a great opportunity to connect with other El Camino owners and get advice on your restoration project.

Forums and Online Communities: Online forums dedicated to classic cars, such as the El Camino Central forum, are valuable resources for finding parts and materials. Members often share information about where to find specific parts, and some may even be willing to sell or trade parts with you. It's also a great place to ask questions and get advice from experienced restorers.

By tapping into these resources, you'll be well on your way to sourcing the parts and materials you need to transform your 1987 El Camino SS interior. Happy hunting!

Step-by-Step Restoration Tips

Okay, let’s get practical! Restoring your 1987 El Camino SS interior can seem daunting, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes it totally achievable. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

Step 1: Assessment and Planning:

Before you even think about picking up a wrench, take a good hard look at your interior. Note everything that needs attention: cracked dash, torn seats, sagging headliner, worn carpets, etc. Take pictures and make a detailed list. This will be your roadmap.

Next, set a budget. Restoration costs can quickly spiral out of control if you're not careful. Decide how much you're willing to spend on parts, materials, and labor (if you're not doing everything yourself). Prioritize the most important items first, such as safety-related components and items that significantly impact the interior's appearance.

Finally, create a timeline. How long do you want the project to take? Be realistic. Restoration projects often take longer than expected, so give yourself some wiggle room.

Step 2: Removal and Disassembly:

Start by removing the seats. Disconnect any electrical connections (power seats, seat heaters) and unbolt them from the floor. Be careful not to damage the wiring or the floor pan.

Next, remove the carpets. You may need to remove some trim pieces to get the carpets out. Take note of how the trim pieces are attached so you can reinstall them correctly.

Remove the door panels. There are usually screws or clips holding them in place. Use a panel removal tool to avoid damaging the panels. Disconnect any electrical connections (power windows, door locks) and remove the door handles and window cranks.

Remove the dashboard components. This can be a complex task, so take your time and label everything. Disconnect all electrical connections and remove the gauges, switches, and trim pieces. Be sure to consult a repair manual for detailed instructions.

Step 3: Cleaning and Repair:

Clean all the interior surfaces. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove loose dirt and debris, then wipe down the surfaces with a mild detergent and water. For stubborn stains, use a specialized interior cleaner.

Repair any damaged components. If the dashboard is cracked, you can use a dashboard repair kit to fill in the cracks. If the seats are torn, you can patch them with a vinyl or cloth repair kit. If the headliner is sagging, you can re-glue it or replace it altogether.

Step 4: Replacement and Reupholstery:

Replace the carpets. Install new carpets that are specifically designed for your El Camino. Be sure to use the correct adhesive and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Reupholster the seats. If the seats are in bad shape, you may want to reupholster them. You can either do this yourself or hire a professional upholstery shop. Choose high-quality materials that match the original upholstery.

Step 5: Reassembly:

Reinstall the dashboard components. Carefully reconnect all electrical connections and reinstall the gauges, switches, and trim pieces. Be sure to consult a repair manual for detailed instructions.

Reinstall the door panels. Reconnect any electrical connections and reinstall the door handles and window cranks. Secure the panels with screws or clips.

Reinstall the seats. Reconnect any electrical connections and bolt them to the floor. Make sure the seats are properly aligned and secure.

By following these steps, you can restore your 1987 El Camino SS interior and bring it back to its former glory. Remember to take your time, be patient, and don't be afraid to ask for help if you get stuck.

Modern Upgrades and Customization

So, you've got the basics down, but what if you want to give your El Camino's interior a bit of a modern twist? Here are some cool upgrades and customization options to consider.

Updated Audio System: Let's face it, the original radio probably isn't cutting it anymore. Swapping it out for a modern head unit with Bluetooth, USB, and smartphone integration can make your cruising experience way more enjoyable. You can even add a subwoofer and amplifier for some serious bass. Just make sure to choose a head unit that fits the El Camino's dashboard and doesn't look too out of place.

New Gauges: If your original gauges are faded or inaccurate, consider replacing them with a set of aftermarket gauges. There are plenty of options available, from classic-looking gauges that mimic the original style to modern digital displays. You can even get gauges that monitor additional parameters, such as oil pressure and coolant temperature.

Custom Steering Wheel: A new steering wheel can dramatically change the look and feel of your El Camino's interior. Choose a steering wheel that complements the rest of the interior and feels comfortable in your hands. Leather-wrapped steering wheels are a popular choice, as they provide a luxurious feel and improved grip.

Upgraded Seats: If you're not happy with the original seats, you can replace them with aftermarket seats that offer more comfort and support. Bucket seats are a popular choice, as they provide better lateral support during cornering. You can also get seats with features like adjustable lumbar support and heating.

Custom Upholstery: If you want to give your El Camino's interior a truly unique look, consider custom upholstery. You can choose from a wide range of materials, colors, and patterns to create a one-of-a-kind interior. Custom upholstery can be expensive, but it's a great way to express your personal style.

LED Lighting: Swapping out the incandescent bulbs for LED bulbs can brighten up the interior and give it a more modern look. LED bulbs are also more energy-efficient and last longer than incandescent bulbs. You can replace the dome light, map lights, and instrument panel lights with LED bulbs.

Sound Deadening: Adding sound deadening material to the floor, doors, and roof can significantly reduce road noise and improve the sound quality of your audio system. This is a great upgrade if you plan on spending a lot of time driving your El Camino.

By incorporating these modern upgrades and customization options, you can transform your 1987 El Camino SS interior into a comfortable, stylish, and functional space that reflects your personal taste.