MyE28.com

My M5 door cards are in piss poor shape so decided to yank them all out and attempt a recover. I know my way around upholstery so I'm confident I'll be able to nail it but thought I'd share some details with the group. Also, while I have the panels off I'll replace some door bits, grease the gears, etc..

One of the reasons I decided to take this on is because the old leather is dry, cracking and frankly falling apart. I did try to rub some color matching leather dye on the panels but not happy with the results. So.., away-we-go !

My first step was to pull the padded panel off the front door storage pockets. The shrinking leather has bent the ABS panel and caused the edges to lift away from the storage pocket. Years ago I tried to glue the edges back but they pulled back off in weeks.

Here's some photos.
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/u2qe49wf ... opph8&dl=0

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/wmlx5ouk ... 8wjsy&dl=0

You can see how badly the edges of the ABS panel have bent. Will try a heat gun and see if I can save the panel.
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/ii6ue89j ... xhhae&dl=0

Also, just like other parts of the interior, like the center console, the leather has been thinned out and the edge skived. Looks like I'll have to have some hides sent out to be shaved down.

More to come..

Hey Philo,

Was thinking, since your M5 is not 100% original, why not change door cards and seats to fabric in either the same color or anthracite? Unless or course you luv Natur leather + vinyl.

Personally, the US M5 in bk and zero interior color configurations was a bit of a letdown.

I own a 535i but finally replaced my Cardinal red confort seats for E28 manual sports in OEM fabric and feel happier.

Jack

I thought about it but I love the smell of fresh cow skins. I already did the front sport seats a couple years ago so I'm pushing forward.

Got it. Good luck in your endeavor.