Centre Console H-Frame Re-Trim Kit

Upon the release of the overhauled TR4 IRS – dubbed the “TR4A” – a few notable changes were made to the front dash and console areas of the cars. Although there were a variety of subtle changes over the years, the basic principles of these parts remained consistent through to the end of the TR6 production run. One of the main inclusions in this area for the TR4A model – was the floor to dash facia central support brackets, which is commonly referred to as the Centre Console “H” Frame. Triumph had attempted something similar on the earlier TR4 models with a more basic design to bridge the gap between the car floor and the underside of the dashboard; but with the TR4A models, they updated this console to incorporate the gear lever gaitor housing, making this console a more prominent feature of the interior upholstery. This design stays consistent for over 10 years of production with minor changes and adaptions made – but for the most part, remaining visually the same.

This console bracket was essentially a moulded aluminium framework covered with a vacuum-formed black grained plastic cover with an expanded foam backing. All variations from the TR4A to the TR6 had holes pre-cut for the radio, as well as various holes cut for control switches. Unlike the earlier TR2-TR3B models which featured the Dash areas in a matching colour to the main trim – the TR4 to TR6 models always left the factory with this area in Black – presumably as a cost-saving exercise, as well as the undoubted acknowledgement that there is reduced glare from the sunlight from black surfaces, assisting in improved safety for the drivers.

Here at John Skinners, we have developed patterns enabling the original console frames to be re-trimmed in a pre-sewn Vinyl (Ambla) or Leather cover – in either Black to suit originality or a custom colour scheme. These “Re-Trim Kits” are to be used in conjunction with your original console assembly units to re-cover the original units. When offering this material cover in Leather (either grained or smooth), we will “skiv” any applicable parts down for you at no extra cost. Skiving, or the thinning of leather is a process to reduce the thickness by slicing away a layer of the “flesh” underside. This finish is especially useful for areas that are to be folded or bent whilst remaining pliable and without losing any of its core strength – helping to achieve a neat finish by reducing the bulk of the material in certain areas. We do not supply moulded foam units for this section – as we encourage our clients to re-use their original equipment where possible to avoid any issues with fitment of poorly manufactured after-market replica moulded parts. We have used this covering kit to great success for decades – and due to Johns ownership of various TR5 and TR6 models over the years – we know first hand of the fitment process of these parts. This kit, as well as various other in-house designed dash and console kits, are one of the many reasons that John Skinner Ltd continues to be the benchmark for interior trim and upholstery for Triumph TRs, and have been for over 40 years now.

DETAILS

• Available in Leather or Vinyl (Ambla).
• Two options of automotive-grade leather available to choose from – “grained” or “smooth” surface finish.
• Supplied with enough excess material to allow for ease in the reupholstery process.
• If ordered in leather, these parts are supplied pre-thinned/skived, at no extra cost.

Why JSM?

• Made in England, only 50 miles away from the original production line.
• We source only the highest quality raw materials to manufacture our products – including leather from Italy and Scotland.
• John Skinners offer the widest range of colour options on the market – including all the correct original colour combinations, as well as many more custom shades.
• Worldwide material and colour samples service is available upon request, to ensure you get the look and finish your car deserves.
• Our kits are manufactured using the same methods and templates that we have used to great success for 40+ years. Rest assured, we know they fit!
• JSM has contributed to various notable Triumph restorations including TS01, and the much-publicised Triumph TR2 “Jabbeke“ MVC575 restoration project. We also worked closely with Mark Macy of Macy’s Garage (USA) on his wife’s TR4 – becoming the only Triumph TR to ever score the perfect 100-point score in the TRA Concours D’Elegance – back in 2018. Mark Macys own TR4 came in second place, at the same show – also with JSM trimmed fitted.
• Access to help and advice when it comes time to fit these re-trim kits – we have been making and fitting these same parts for a long time – we know all the tricks, and we are more than happy to assist you or your trimmer should you get stuck. As noted above, John himself has used this part on a number of his own TRs, so we are well versed in the fitment process.