is there a website or guide that I can look up what parts interchange between my 1982 Buick Lasabre Wagon and say an Olds or Chevy wagon? Thanks
Junkyards and parts stores have been using Hollander Interchange guides for decades.... http://hollanderinterchange.net/ You can also try Google..... As an owner of one of these, just with a Pontiac nameplate, I can tell you that quite a lot of the basic parts interchange. Front sheet metal will differ from make to make, but most doors would be the same (with trim differences), as well as ALL the glass. They all had their own unique instrument panel and forward interior trim pieces. Rear cargo area trim parts should interchange. is there anything specific you are referring to? Marshall
The body is great, but it’s missing several interior trim pieces and the third seat. The plastics the cover the from seat belts on both sides in between the doors and the whole headliner is missing.
The 1980-1990 B-body wagons are identical from the firewall back. The dashboards and upholstery patterns are unique to each division, but the seat frames, wiring, plastic trim panels, weatherstripping, etc are all the same across all divisions. Exterior sheet metal from the firewall back is also identical, allowing for differences in chrome trim attachments. The front fenders, hood, header, grill, and bumper are unique to each division (though there is some limited commonality like front bumpers between Chevy and Pontiac, and between Buick and Olds). Tail lights are unique to each division, but they all interchange in the body openings.
For the headliner, you just go to an auto upholstery shop, or do it yourself. Just need a piece of the original fabric to match with. The headliner was the first thing I had dome on mine when I bought it... It's a common problem for all of them....
Mine is completely missing! It’s bare metal! I have not been able to find a replacement backing material. I can find the fabric online. Any suggestions? Thanks
The backing panels are molded fiberglass, and I doubt you will find new ones. Used from a parts car is probably your only option. Worse, the plastic clips that hold the garnish trim are unobtanium, and it is impossible to remove the trim without breaking the clips.
Car-part.com is very useful for searching boneyards. Where are you? I have some interior doubles in dark blue. I picked over a wagon in a junkyard a few years back. Right now I'm stripping a rotted '86 Buick Estate. I need the headliner backing and plan on cutting the mouldings to save the clips.
I have two B-body wagons I'm parting, an 84 Custom Cruiser and an 86 Caprice. Both have all the parts you are looking for. Unfortunately I'm in Northern VA so shipping is likely prohibitive.
The Chevy is dark blue, the Olds is more medium blue. Email me directly and we can discuss. Include the complete list of what you're looking for. joe_padavano@rocketmail.com
Sounds like this might work out well for the both of you. Car people helping car people. It's a beautiful thing.