Hey there, gearheads! Ever dreamt of cruising down the road in a classic, fully restored '79 Chevy Scottsdale? Well, you're in the right place! Today, we're diving deep into the heart of your beloved truck – the interior. This guide is your ultimate companion to bringing that vintage vibe back to life, from the dashboard to the carpets. We'll cover everything from simple cleaning to full-blown restoration, so whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, you'll find something to get your hands dirty with. Let's get started and make your Scottsdale's interior shine like new! Remember, taking on an interior project can be a rewarding experience. It's a chance to connect with your truck, understand its design, and create a space that reflects your personal style. So, grab your tools, and let's bring that '79 Chevy Scottsdale back to its former glory. This is where the magic happens, guys, and trust me, the results are worth the effort!

Assessment and Planning: What Needs to Be Done?

Before you get too excited and start tearing everything apart, let's take a step back and assess the situation. The 1979 Chevrolet Scottsdale interior is a classic example of late 70s design, which means durable materials, but also the potential for wear and tear over the years. First things first: a thorough inspection! Walk around your truck's interior, and note everything that needs attention. Are the seats ripped or faded? Is the dashboard cracked? Are the carpets worn out, or the headliner sagging? Make a detailed list. This is your roadmap, and it will help you stay organized throughout the project.

Consider the scope of your project. Are you aiming for a complete restoration, or would a simple refresh do the trick? A complete restoration involves removing everything, repairing or replacing each component, and putting it all back together. This is a big job, but the results are incredible. A refresh might involve cleaning, repairing minor damage, and perhaps replacing a few key items like seat covers or a new headliner. Both are valid choices, but the level of effort and cost will vary greatly. With interior restoration projects, it's really important to set a realistic budget. Interior parts can add up quickly, especially if you're going for high-quality replacements. Research the cost of parts and materials before you start. Factor in potential unexpected costs, too. These projects can sometimes uncover hidden problems, like rust or damaged wiring. Having a buffer in your budget will save you headaches down the road. Plan your workspace and time. You'll need a clean, well-lit space to work in. A garage is ideal, but a covered area will work too. Think about how much time you can dedicate to the project. Don't rush it, especially if you are new to this. Take your time, do your research, and enjoy the process. Planning is key to a successful interior restoration!

Detailing and Cleaning: The Foundation of a Great Interior

Okay, now that you've got your plan, it's time to roll up your sleeves and get to work. Start with a deep clean. Even if you're planning a full restoration, a good cleaning will help you identify the areas that need the most attention and give you a sense of accomplishment right away. Begin by removing all loose items from the interior. This includes floor mats, seat covers, and any other items you can remove easily. Use a vacuum with various attachments to clean the seats, carpets, and crevices of the dashboard. Pay special attention to the areas around the pedals, under the seats, and in the door panels. For the dashboard and other hard surfaces, use a mild cleaner specifically designed for automotive interiors. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the vinyl or plastic. Apply the cleaner to a microfiber cloth and gently wipe the surfaces. For stubborn dirt and grime, you might need a dedicated cleaner or degreaser. Always test it in an inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn't damage the material. Deep clean your carpets. Remove the carpets from the truck. If they are in good condition, you can give them a thorough cleaning. If they are heavily soiled or damaged, consider replacing them. Use a carpet cleaner or a combination of soap and water. Scrub the carpets gently with a brush, and then rinse them thoroughly. Allow them to air dry completely before reinstalling. Cleaning your seats can be a challenge, depending on the material. For vinyl seats, use a vinyl cleaner and protectant. For cloth seats, use an upholstery cleaner. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions. If the seats are in very bad shape, consider replacing the seat covers or having them reupholstered. Don't forget the small details. Clean the door panels, the headliner, and the console. Pay attention to the air vents, the steering wheel, and the instrument cluster. These small details can make a big difference in the overall appearance of the interior. The 1979 Chevrolet Scottsdale interior deserves this care and attention. Taking the time to detail the interior before moving on to larger tasks ensures that your truck will look amazing.

Seat Restoration and Replacement: Comfort and Style

Seats are a critical part of the 1979 Chevrolet Scottsdale interior and often the most visible. They take a lot of abuse over the years, so it's common for them to show wear and tear. Your approach to seat restoration will depend on their current condition and your budget. If the seats are in good shape but just need a refresh, you might be able to get away with a deep cleaning and some minor repairs. If they're heavily worn, ripped, or faded, you'll need to consider more extensive work. Replacing the seat covers is a good option if the foam padding is still in good condition. You can buy replacement seat covers that match the original style or opt for something new. Upholstering the seats yourself is a cost-effective way to get custom results. The process involves removing the old seat covers, replacing the foam padding if needed, and installing the new covers. It's a challenging task, but the satisfaction of doing it yourself is unbeatable. Consider purchasing pre-made seat covers or kits. There are many companies that offer custom-fit seat covers designed specifically for the 1979 Chevy Scottsdale. These are a great option if you want an easy and professional look. If the seat foam is damaged or compressed, you'll need to replace it. This is best done while the seats are disassembled. Replacement foam is readily available, and it will make a huge difference in your comfort. Remember, the right seats can completely change the look and feel of your interior.

Dashboard and Interior Trim: Addressing Cracks and Wear

The dashboard and interior trim are like the face of your truck's interior. A cracked dashboard can ruin the whole look. The 1979 Chevrolet Scottsdale interior dashboards were made of plastic and are prone to cracking over time, especially due to sun exposure. The first step is to assess the damage. Are there just small cracks, or is the dashboard severely damaged? If the cracks are minor, you can try repairing them. There are several repair kits available that use epoxy or plastic filler to fix cracks. If the damage is extensive, you may need to replace the dashboard. Finding a replacement dashboard can be tricky, but there are aftermarket options that match the original style. Removing the dashboard is a relatively involved process. You'll need to disconnect the wiring, remove the gauges and controls, and unbolt the dashboard from the truck. Follow the service manual carefully. You could also opt to get it professionally done. It's a faster way of achieving great results, but the cost will be higher than the DIY option. Beyond the dashboard, pay attention to the other trim pieces in your interior. Door panels, console trim, and other plastic or metal parts can get scratched, faded, or damaged. You can repair these parts by cleaning, painting, or replacing them. Painting the trim is a good way to give it a fresh look. Use a paint specifically designed for automotive interiors. Use the right primer, and apply several thin coats for a durable finish. If the trim is badly damaged, consider replacing it. Many aftermarket companies offer replacement trim pieces that match the original style.

Headliner, Carpets and Door Panels: The Finishing Touches

Once you've addressed the seats, dashboard, and trim, it's time to move on to the finishing touches. This is where you can really tie everything together and create a cohesive look. A sagging headliner can make your interior look old and tired. The original headliners in the 1979 Chevy Scottsdale were usually made of a foam-backed material that is prone to failing over time. Replacing the headliner is a moderately challenging task. You'll need to carefully remove the old headliner, clean the roof, and install the new headliner. This is a very important part of the 1979 Chevrolet Scottsdale interior. Carpets can significantly impact the overall look and feel of your interior. They can also provide sound insulation and add to the comfort of your ride. The original carpets in the 1979 Chevy Scottsdale are often worn out or faded. Replacing them is a great way to revitalize the interior. You can buy pre-cut carpet kits that fit perfectly. These kits include the carpet, padding, and sometimes even the floor mats. Replacing the door panels is another great way to refresh your interior. Over time, the door panels can become damaged, worn, or faded. You can replace the entire door panel or replace the trim and upholstery. This allows you to introduce custom details and make the interior really shine. You can buy replacement door panels that match the original style or opt for something custom. With the right care and attention, you can get a better outcome from your truck's interior. Remember to keep the materials in good condition by regular care. This will extend the life of your restoration.

Putting It All Back Together: Reassembly and Final Touches

Okay, guys, you've done the hard work, now it's time to put everything back together! Reassembly is just as important as the disassembly and restoration. Take your time, and follow these steps to make sure you get it right. Start by installing the headliner, if you've replaced it. Make sure it's properly glued and stretched for a smooth, wrinkle-free finish. Next, install the carpets. Ensure that they fit snugly and are properly secured. You might need to trim them slightly to fit around the pedals and other components. Install the seats. Make sure the seat tracks are properly aligned and that the seats are securely bolted in. Install the dashboard and trim pieces. Carefully reconnect the wiring, and make sure everything functions correctly. Install the door panels. Make sure the door handles, window cranks, and other components are properly installed. Reinstall the center console, and any other interior trim pieces. As you're putting things back together, take the opportunity to add any upgrades or improvements you've been considering. This could include a new stereo system, updated gauges, or a custom steering wheel. Once everything is back in place, give the interior one last, thorough cleaning. Use a vinyl cleaner and protectant on the dashboard and other hard surfaces. Clean the windows and mirrors. Check the functionality of all the components. Make sure the lights, gauges, and other electrical systems are working properly. Make sure you are satisfied with the outcome, and don't worry if it isn't perfect. The most important thing is that you've created a beautiful and functional interior that you can be proud of. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Final Thoughts and Resources: Enjoy the Ride!

Restoring the 1979 Chevrolet Scottsdale interior is a labor of love, but the results are worth it. It's a chance to connect with your truck, learn new skills, and create a space that you'll enjoy for years to come. Remember to take your time, and don't be afraid to ask for help. There are plenty of online resources, forums, and communities where you can find advice, tips, and inspiration. You can learn from the experience of other enthusiasts. Enjoy the journey and celebrate your success. Now, go out there and enjoy your restored Chevy Scottsdale! Here are some resources that you may find useful:

• Online Forums: Websites like TruckForum.com and ClassicTrucks.com are great resources for finding information, asking questions, and connecting with other enthusiasts. Search for threads specific to your truck's make and model.
• YouTube Channels: Several YouTube channels are dedicated to classic car restoration. Search for channels that cover the specific components of your interior you are working on.
• Parts Suppliers: Many companies specialize in classic car parts, like LMC Truck and Classic Industries. They often have catalogs and online resources to help you identify the parts you need.

Remember to stay patient and take your time. Interior restoration can be a big project, and it can be easy to get overwhelmed. But by following the steps outlined in this guide and taking it one step at a time, you can achieve amazing results. So, buckle up, hit the road, and enjoy your beautifully restored 1979 Chevy Scottsdale interior! You did it! Congratulations, you have successfully restored your 1979 Chevy Scottsdale's interior! Now, go out there and enjoy the open road with your beautifully restored classic truck. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. Be proud of the work you've done, and enjoy the ride!