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I have several light marks on my 2001 Light Oak convertible top. I suspect the marks are from storage of the top--it usually is down even when in the garage.
What is the best cleaner for light marks such as these:
Who makes the best cleaner that will not damage this original 19 year old canvas?
I am hearing that the protectorate is a pain to apply--that the paint should be covered, etc. Is it really necessary for a top that is usually in the garage and doesn't see rain? It is strange to see water absorbed into the canvas --but it doesn't seem to hurt anything.
And does anyone have any pointers as to application?
Last edited by phoneman91; Mar 28, 2020 at 12:38 PM.
I tried Raggtopp and 303. Liked 303 better. For the protectant I picked up some cheap painters drop cloths at the hardware store and covered paint with those. No big deal.
When cleaning the top a horsehair brush is recommended so as to not chafe the fibers.
I used 303 convertible top cleaner with a horsehair brush. The top came out looking almost new. I then used the 303 convertible top protectant. I got a mason jar and poured the protectant in the jar. I then applied the protectant to the top with a paint brush. Soaks into the top material really well and provides excellent water protection when dry. Make sure you do it when the weather is nice and in the sun. Also helps if there is a nice breeze, which helps the drying process of the top.
right corner New top
I had ugly marks too. The car has been garage kept with the top up. I could not find anything to clean them. I broke down and got a new top.
I just used the Raggtop this weekend. A few of my stains might have been tar from driving through a construction zone when I picked it up so some of those got softer, but wouldn't come out. It was pretty easy and like JR-01, I put some beach towels over the windshield, trunk and doors when spraying the protectant. Pretty easy to apply, and we'll see how it holds up.
The water protectant is not going to hurt the window glass or paint on the car. Just wipe it off and then use window cleaner or quick detailer on the paint. I have cleaned my top and applied water protectant numerous times and the water protectant has gotten on the window glass and paint. Never did it cause an issue.
Used Griot’s Garage Convertible Top Cleaner with a horsehair brush. After, sprayed with Griot’s Garage Fabric Protector. The product did an excellent job getting plenty of dirt out and the horsehair brush is soft enough to build up a good lather and not be abrasive. Some spots may remain - but you can lather again and let it sit for a few minutes. You’re likely not going to get every piece of the fabric top spotless but yes, much cleaner. Dry the brush is the sun, it’s horse hair and trust me, not something you want airing out in your garage. Ever smell a wet dog? But definitely invest the $9 in the brush. Top two pics are after a good wash.
303 makes some of the best products on the market. Though I notice they're constantly being pushed off the shelf by crappy Armor-All products. Auto parts stores are just like the grocery stores...
303 makes some of the best products on the market. Though I notice they're constantly being pushed off the shelf by crappy Armor-All products. Auto parts stores are just like the grocery stores...
Go to a Boat supply store and you will always find it--at least I have always been able to get the full line of 303 products at the one I shop at.
Last edited by v6turbo87; Apr 2, 2020 at 10:15 AM.
303 used to be carried only by marine supply stores when I first discovered it in 2001; Amazon has been my go-to for purchasing since then.
Thoughts on retail presence of 303: I think the average car owner who buys their car care products at the retail store looks at the $14 (average) price tag of 303, and chooses to buy the $6 (average) silicone spray junk instead.
I do know 303 was bought out a few years ago, but still seems to be the same quality product as before.
Those dark lines on the fabric top are almost impossible to get out, as they are a combination of friction and contact with metal parts. It's essentially "dyed" or etched into the fabric.
FWIW...….50% Bleach and water can be uses too! I've done it and there was no fading or problems. Still have some dark spots that I will have to try the "Comet Trick" on!
Cleaning Light Oak convertible top
