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I work for a large construction type business and we have a dirt yard with heavy equipment in and out all day long. It is about as dusty as you can imagine and then some. I left one of my windows down one day to come back just a couple hours later to find a thin layer of dust and grit all inside my car. I am just wondering what that will do to the paint and soft top of my car long term?
Can you find a parking space upwind from the dust factory?
__________________ Disclaimer: No claim is made that the quality of the MINI-related advice offered by Yucca Patrol
is greater than the quality of MINI-related advice offered by other NAM members.
Seal the top well with 303 Areospace sealant - the grit will act as sandpaper on the top when folded open and closed, so be careful to remove as much of the grit as possible, lest it damage the raised seams.
Parking upwind is indeed a good choice if possible. maybe the time has come to park 2-3 blocks away and walk in the morning? it would be better for the car as well as you.
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~Matt Cook | Dublin, Ohio | '92 Classic Mini Sprite: "Fiona" + Purple Haze 2005 MCS Cabrio: "Dawn". See old MODs from "Nano" HERE - post #166 - many with How-to links!
If really concerned, and you don't mind taking the extra minute or 2, you could also get the outdoor car cover for your cabrio. They sometimes pop up on the marketplace for reasonable prices.
Good point... that's a great option, if you can't find an upwind/distant parking spot.
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~Matt Cook | Dublin, Ohio | '92 Classic Mini Sprite: "Fiona" + Purple Haze 2005 MCS Cabrio: "Dawn". See old MODs from "Nano" HERE - post #166 - many with How-to links!
Besides the issues that may come up with top, the paint is going to need attention also.
First, do not take the car to a car wash place that makes any kind of contact with brushes or flapping things, this will be bad. If you must use a car wash, only go to a true touchless one.
If washing by hand, preferred method, rince with lots of water first, and use a good quality car shampoo, using a grit guard in your bucket.
So, after leaving work, should I rinse off the top before opening?
I have always heard that covers could ground in the dirt and hurt paint, is this not the case?
Tammy
Depends how fast you go before you drop the top. I'm thinking you would then be getting the dirt wet and turning it into mud, not good. I'd say you are better off washing the car often, using good protectants on the roof fabric, and the paint surfaces.
I think some covers are made to just cover the roof.
'05 MCSc Jet Black - "Magic 8 Ball" 
. I'm thinking you would then be getting the dirt wet and turning it into mud, not good. I'd say you are better off washing the car often, using good protectants on the roof fabric, and the paint surfaces.
