How to Re-Establish a Convertible Top

There are people who are still passionately fond of the stylish old convertible and would not part with it, whatever the circumstances. But if you are one of them and want to drive your convertible, you will need to restore the convertible top. Restoring a convertible top is an interesting activity provided you have the time and inclination. But if you choose to restore the convertible top, your efforts will be rewarded and you will have a great car at the end of your labors.

Convertibles owners must zealously safeguard the convertible tops as without proper care and maintenance, a luxurious top can soon deteriorate and become unusable. There are two primary types of convertible top material—fabric/canvas familiarly known as "rag top" and vinyl. If there is windowing, it is usually made of plastic and less frequently glass.

Many favor fabric tops over vinyl - though both have to be maintained in a similar fashion. Identify the right cleaning products that are designed specifically for cleaning fabric tops. It is always a good idea to check the owner's manual on the vehicle for manufacturer's recommendations regarding maintenance of the top.

Maintenance of convertible tops is relatively simple and straightforward. When washing your vehicle with water, use a car brush of medium stiffness to gently scrub the convertible top. Scrupulously avoid using gloss-enhancing shampoos, as they serve no useful purpose when cleaning your fabric top. If the tops are far too dirty, and need more rigorous cleanings, use a more powerful cleaner available in the market.

After successfully cleaning the top, apply the light protective coating of your choice on a dry top. Fabric tops are chemically treated while manufacturing to become water-resistant. But this characteristic will wear away over a period of time. Therefore, it is recommended that you use products that help restore this quality of the fabric.

On vinyl tops, avoid using any shampoo intended for improving gloss. These shampoos are useful only to the limited extent of washing a vinyl top and nothing more. Select a gentle car shampoo and simply wash the vinyl top the same way you would any other part of your vehicle. You can clean the vinyl top as often as you wash your car.

Despite your best intentions, you may notice mold or mildew gathering in places on the vinyl. Try to break up the spot by first spraying it with water and then tackle it with any standard vinyl cleaner. Most of these cleaners available in the market will work fairly effectively on both vinyl and fabric tops, and they are free from soaps or hard detergents. Use a brush of medium stiffness to work the cleaner in to maximize your results.

It is reported that the vinyl windows on your convertible may deteriorate faster than the rest of the top. Vinyl windows may develop some yellowing, or even scratches and abrasions. Maintenance of the vinyl window is of paramount importance.

With a fair degree of caution and common sense, maintaining convertible tops is a simple part of the car maintenance process.