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?

 

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.

 

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.

 

Tammy,

I am moving this thread to "Detailing". I know Cabrios have top specific issues but I think you will get more help from the detailing gurus

Lois

 

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.

Here is a good link.
http://video.google.com/videoplay?do...arch&plindex=0

Using a good wax/sealant will help with dust not sticking to the paint surfaces.

Mark

 

No problem, I need as much help as possible!

 

Due to our location, I am unable to park and walk unfortunately.

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?

 

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.

Try this.http://www.autopartswarehouse.com/se...l&N=1674&Nty=1


Mark

 

as far as dusty interiors, i highly recommend a CalDuster interior duster.

then follow up with Prima Nero.

www.detailersparadise.com


for the outside... dont even bother touching it. you will end up
swirling up the paint. just wash it on the weekends when you got time.

 

And rinse profusely! Like for 5 minutes to make sure you get all the dust off.