Convertible Top Marks

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Mar 23, 2011 | 08:30 PM

MSG C5

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Convertible Top Marks

I have a 2004 vert. The black top is still in great shape, however I have the common rub marks on the edges where the fabric rubs together when the top is down.

I have used RagTopp to protect it, however I was hoping I could get some tips on how I can remove, or at least reduce, the shiny marks.

Any ideas?

Thanks!

Mar 23, 2011 | 08:59 PM

0Killrwheels@Autogeek

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From: South Florida

Ragtopp and 303 also offer a cleaner product. Using this and a good stiff safe brush should help some. Then adding the protectant to protect your hard work.

Mar 24, 2011 | 12:18 PM

MSG C5

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Quote:

Originally Posted by Killrwheels@Autogeek

Ragtopp and 303 also offer a cleaner product. Using this and a good stiff safe brush should help some. Then adding the protectant to protect your hard work.

Thanks. What causes the shiney marks? Are the fibers of the cloth top pressed down or did they actually rub off due to the fabric rubbing against intself with the top down.

I have read how some people place a microfiber or other soft towel in between the folded sections of the top when it is down to prevent this. Good to know going forward, however I'm hoping to fix or improve the current marks.

Mar 24, 2011 | 10:23 PM

0Killrwheels@Autogeek

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From: South Florida

It is indeed likely wear markings where the two sides rub together. I think proper cleaning and protection are likely the best choice. It will minimize , perhaps never eliminate, the marks but hopefully reduce to a level where they are acceptable. The only other choice is replacement or trying to dye the roof.

Mar 31, 2011 | 04:22 PM

MSG C5

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Quote:

Originally Posted by Killrwheels@Autogeek

I guess after cleaning the top well and protecting it with 303/Ragtopp, it would be a good idea to lay in some MF towels are other soft cloth between the folded sections. Since the top folds twice, I would need to wrap the towel over to cover both folds.

If anyone has other tips and/or pics, please post.

Thanks!

Apr 7, 2011 | 12:02 PM

0zoomzoom mazda5@properautocare.com

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From: Tampa Bay Florida

Quote:

Originally Posted by MSG C5

One good question there, using RaggTopp products to clean and maintain your top ( which was put on by the manufacture when the top was made which alot of folks don't know starting around 2001-2002 models till now ) which is a 5 layer top. It's the nature of the frame to do that to your top. There is nothing on the market as far as I know that will correct that for you. That's the way from day one when you get your ride with a soft top, one should then start using RaggTopp products to clean/protect to keep it soft because it's the nature of how it's made. If it was loose then it will serve no purpose in using because it will just come off the frame.

Apr 8, 2011 | 01:23 PM

Mrs. glass car

Melting Slicks

Joined: Dec 2004

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From: Manteca CA

My 96 vert has 44,000 miles on it and the top has seldom been up is the 15 years I have owned it. I also noticed some very slight "rub" marks or shine as you described the last time I washed the car.
I used black paste shoe polish and bushed it off after a few minutes, just like you would polish your shoes. Marks are gone!
Give it a try, it can't hurt anything.

Apr 9, 2011 | 04:36 AM

TOGWT

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From: Ponte Vedra Beach / London State: Dazed and confused

Shoe polish wouldn't be my first or even tenth choice to correct a soft top or leather; but thats just me.

Renovo Soft Top Reviver

Available in Black, Dark Blue Green and Brown to match your convertible top’s hood Soft top car care that will make your convertible tops like new again, great for classic and modern convertible tops

• Ensure that the soft top is thoroughly cleaned.
• Ensure that you have sufficient Reviver to complete a full coat.
• Shake the bottle prior to use
• Be diligent in removing previous waterproof coatings prior to application of Reviver.
• Keep a soft damp cloth ready to wipe off any splashes or dribbles on paintwork and glass.
• Work in a timely fashion to ensure that the edges of the freshly applied Reviver do not dry out too quickly.
• Work from the centre outwards round and round the vehicle.
• Apply to a dry top and allow Reviver to dry completely before applying further product or taking out in the rain.

Do not - apply the Reviver in direct sunlight or on a hot day that will cause it to dry too quickly, allow to dry on glass and paintwork, apply to a soft top that has been coated with a waterproofing agent without removing the proofer first, apply to vinyl soft tops - http://www.renovointernational.com/