1999 XLT Headliner Removal Instructions?

[kythri]

Admittedly, I haven't dug out my factory service manual, which likely details how to do this, but, does anyone have a link to how to remove the headliner (specifically in the rear) of a Gen 2?

I had to remove my Safari rack from my truck because the driver's rear corner was bouncing - I think it popped a rivet or something holding the roof rack track to the roof, and I want to examine/fix the problem before re-installing my rack.

Thank you!

 

[XLTrunner]

The roof rack rails are secured to the roof with phillips head screws that thread into blind nuts that are spot welded between the inner and outer roof sheet metal. I broke the rear driver side nut loose when trying to remove the screw during a re-paint of the rack/rails. Had to grind off the head to be able to remove the rail. I left it like that with the remaining stud in place and caulked around it as I couldn't see how to access the blind nut. Later, I was at the JY and pulled back the headliner at the rear corner to take a closer look. I could get a finger in there to feel where it was...but, still not sure if I'd be able to get another nut on a replacement screw...let alone be able to tighten it if I could. But, since I never use the roof rack, I really didn't care to pursue it further.

But, to answer your question about how to remove the rear portion of the headliner, you just have to start loosening the rear side trim and the rearward pushpins on the headliner. You only need to pull the rear of the headliner down a little to see what I'm talking about.

 

[kythri]

Thank you!

Maybe I'll get lucky, and the screw just backed itself out and flew out, and I can replace with a new screw! I've got a '00 parts rig here, so here's hoping!