Supplies for Automotive Interior Systems and Accessories

Have the right supplies on hand for your custom auto interior business

When customizing auto interiors, you have to have more than just the systems and accessories customers desire. You also need to have the means to install them. This sometimes requires special tools, but in many cases, regular, everyday tools will suffice. Experimenting to determine what works best for your company is a good idea.

Almost anything inside a vehicle can be modified, so your installers need to be ready for anything. Having the basics on hand will help them out immensely. Supplies for automotive interior systems and accessories include:

1. Wrenches and screwdrivers. These are used for removing and installing many car interior accessories.

2. Electrical tools. Car interior accessories, like audio devices, will require the use of these tools and their corresponding supplies, like butt connectors.

3. A sewing machine, if you're planning on doing custom upholstery or automotive interior trim. If you contract out upholstery work, you'll still need seat removal tools.

 

Have the right tools for installing auto interior accessories

Many enthusiasts like to customize the accessories in their vehicles. This includes shift knobs and boots, gauges, parking brake handles, racing pedals, steering wheels, lights and aftermarket dashboards. Your installers will need a lot of common tools for these types of jobs. Screwdrivers, assorted wrenches (e.g., socket, pipe, Allen), vice grips and a jack and jack stands are really all you need to install most accessories.
Try: Consider using a steering wheel puller tool when replacing a steering wheel, as is recommended by Second Chance Garage. TWM Performance points out that when installing a short shifter, special tools will usually come with the product to reduce the number of extra tools you'll need to purchase for the installation.

Install popular automotive interior systems, like stereos

Stereos and sound systems are some of the most commonly installed interior items since they enhance the experience of driving as opposed to just providing an aesthetic appeal. Since these systems have electrical components, your installers will need some basic tools like splicers, crimpers, electrical tape and soldering supplies to get audio jobs done. Remind your workers that safety comes first and that they should take care to disconnect the negative battery terminal before getting started.
Try: Make sure you have the tools you need for installing head units by checking the list provided by Circuit City. Read through the threads on the forum at Sound Solutions Audio for answers to questions you may have about installation supplies.

Provide a customized automotive interior: trim and upholstery

Sometimes simply replacing the entire seating system is an option. In this case, basic tools like a screwdriver, socket wrench and torque wrench can be used to remove the bolts holding the seats down. This is a good option if your customers want to install racing seats. But, if they want to just change out the upholstery or add trim, you'll need some special tools. Having a sewing machine is imperative, as well as special pliers.
Try: Read through the directions at UPHOLSTER! magazine to determine exactly what you'll need to customize the seats in a vehicle. Check out the seating supplies offered by JC Whitney.

 

• If you install window tint as part of your auto interior accessories business, you'll need supplies such as squeegees, heat guns and razor blades to get the job done. You may also need soap and spray bottles as well as tools you can use to remove door panels.

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