Convertable Top Washing

mcdbrendan · #1 04-29-2007, 01:44 PM

I've got a few convertable detailing jobs coming up and I was wondering if Mystique would do the trick with cleaning the convertable soft tops. I have 303 fabric cleaner as well, so I was planning to "spot treat" with that if needed. However, if Mystique wouldn't do the trick, what would? I am thinking about just biting the bullet and ordering Renovo Cleaner and Ultra-Proofer and just hold on to them for future details... Any ideas?

Thanks in advance.

bamatt · #2 04-29-2007, 02:10 PM

You should not use carsoap on a fabric top as the oils in the soap will attract lint. I would use 303, Raggtopp, or Renovo top cleaner

mcdbrendan · #3 04-29-2007, 02:44 PM

Ahh thanks for the info Bamatt. I think I am going to go with the Raggtopp cleaner and sealer because it can be used on vinyl and fabric.

bamatt · #4 04-29-2007, 02:55 PM

I have used both 303 & RaggTopp cleaners. They both seem pretty equal. Last weekend I used the Renovo protectant for the 1st time (after cleaning with some leftover RaggTopp) & I really liked the control I had over the brush-on application of the Renovo

ScottRiqui · #5 04-29-2007, 03:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mcdbrendan

Ahh thanks for the info Bamatt. I think I am going to go with the Raggtopp cleaner and sealer because it can be used on vinyl and fabric.

The Raggtopp *cleaner* can be used on both vinyl and fabric, but they have different sealers for fabric and vinyl.

MiniMaybee · #6 04-29-2007, 06:03 PM

Brendan, if you use 303 or Raggtopp cleaners you will need to reapply a waterproofer. I just use water to rinse my top unless I wish to strip the sealer off and reseal.
Mystique will really gum up the canvas so I avoid getting any on the top when washing the MINI.

BlimeyCabrio · #7 04-29-2007, 06:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MiniMaybee

Brendan, if you use 303 or Raggtopp cleaners you will need to reapply a waterproofer. I just use water to rinse my top unless I wish to strip the sealer off and reseal.
Mystique will really gum up the canvas so I avoid getting any on the top when washing the MINI.

+1

Water only for normal wash
303 cleaner only IF you plan to reapply protectant
reapplying any of the spray-on protectants is a most-of-the-day process with multiple coats, drying between each, and using sheets to mask off the rest of the car. Or use a brush on protectant...

mcdbrendan · #8 05-02-2007, 05:25 PM

Alright guys. Some good and bad news... The good news, I got another detailing job, convertable. Bad news... I got another detailing job, convertable, this weekend. I want to clean the top well, but don't have time to order from DP. What should I do??? I will just use water I guess, and it's only a weekend driver, so I don't think it will be too bad, but what else can I do to clean it up a bit??? Anything on the local shelves that will help (no detailing stores around here, just Autozones, Walmarts, and Targets...

Thanks, McD

BlimeyCabrio · #9 05-02-2007, 06:45 PM

I've seen Raggtop kits (cleaner and treatment) at some local auto store - can't remember which one - autozone or advance auto or pep boys...

mcdbrendan · #10 05-02-2007, 07:18 PM

Thanks Blimey, I will try to run over there tomorrow. How long does the re-treating stage take? I really want to seal it well...

BlimeyCabrio · #11 05-02-2007, 09:17 PM

I haven't used raggtop - so I'm not going to be much help there. With 303, you apply, let it sit in the sun for about an hour, then reapply, then another hour and your're done. But you want to mask off EVERYTHING except the fabric top, cause overspray on the paint sux - I use old bedsheets and actually open the top partially, put the sheet between the top and the windows and windshield, then close everything up. Then mask/cover around the back...