Centre Console Side Panels (Pair)

With much of the Dash and Console area of the TRs remaining fairly consistent after the Giovanni Michelotti redesigns for the TR4 models – it was on the introduction of the TR6 cars that saw the inclusion of Centre Console Side Panels. These trim panels were mounted to the sides of gearbox assembly cover, and helped to cover up some of the “messy” areas of the wires coming from the dash and console assembly units. Throughout the TR6 era – there were three incarnations of these console trim panels. The very first version of this panel was quite a bit more angular than the later shape adopted by Triumph. It also did not feature a pre-cut hole for the speaker mesh grill. Although records are limited on this usage of this specific panel, it appears to be only a few thousand cars from the CP and CC range that left with this particular shape, before being quickly updated to the more commonly seen version. The main reason for this change was related to the airflow being constricted from the heater by the shape of the side panel. Thus, in around 1970 Triumph updated the shape of this panel, adding some gentle curves to open up air gaps to allow air from the heater to flow more freely. At this point, there were still no speaker hole cut-outs included. Finally, in around 1972 (records differ), Triumph continued with the updated shape of the panel but now included pre-cut holes to allow speakers to be installed for the radio. All versions of these trim panels included metal brackets riveted to the rear of the panels allow the attachment to the main centre console “H” frame assembly unit.

These gearbox cover side assembly trim panel units would have been trimmed hardboard panels, most likely upholstered in Ambla (Vinyl), not Vynide (Leathercloth) as this material appears to have been superseded for many interior parts during the production of the TR4A/TR5/TR250 era – although records are not overly clear on this matter. Regardless of originality – commonly these days Vinyl is seen as a suitable replacement for this area and is more commonly available with a wider choice of colours;  although Leathercloth (Vynide) is still available if requested (colour dependent). Very few cars, if any, would have left with Leather covers – and if they did, this would have been a special order item. Note when “Leather” is mentioned on the heritage certificates, this is often referring to the only the Seats, with other elements of the car remaining in Leathercloth (Vynide) / Vinyl (Ambla). See our FAQs for more information. As with the surrounding areas of the console and dash – these side assemble units would have been supplied from the factory in Black. It is worth noting that around 1973, Triumph introduced a new grain finish to their range of Vinyl (Ambla) for the main Trim Panels – however, please keep in mind that these Console Side Panels and all other Dash and Console parts would not have been affected by this change in grain.

Our panels are templated using the original factory designs – with John himself owning numerous and various TRs over the years, including some TR6s. We have tooling for all three varients used by Triumph on the original factory production line. Our panels come fully upholstered on automotive grade hardboard panels, including the metal bracket on the rear of the panel; and the correct thickness of foam to give the panel its shape. We can either fully trim out the speaker hole, or leave it left in place with just the perforated guideline to add this hole at a later date. As a result of Johns own ownership of a variety of TRs – we also have an outline guide as to how to make these panels suitable to fit the earlier TR4A and TR5/TR250 models. This attention to detail on the different panels originally supplied – as well as our dedication to the suitability to fitment on different TR models further goes to illustrate why we are considered the leading interior trim manufacturers 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.
• Available with or without the speaker holes trimmed out.
• All three original variety of panel available to choose from.
• Backing boards are pre-cut on our in-house CNC machine using automotive-grade 2.55mm hardboard wood.
• Pre-riveted metal bracket included on the rear of the panels.

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 panels – 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.