If anyone can give me some tips on keeping the convertible top clean and protected, they would much appreciated. i have a new Suzuka Blue, and I want the top to stay shiny and black and free of wax. What can I do to protect it, or clean it when it does becme dirty?

 

I think most people on the board (including me) use the 303 Vinyl Convertible Top Cleaner and Protectant Kit . It keeps the top nice and black, plus it protects it. You can buy it here ---> http://www.properautocare.com/303vincontop.html

 

In my opinion, there's nothing that beats 303 UV Protectant. I got mine at a local marine (as in boating) supply store.

 

Do you wash it when you wash the rest of the car? For some reason, some people don't do this. Just wash it and a few times a year, give it the 303 treatment. I treat mine maybe 3 times a year but I'm not subjected to intense summer and winter heat like some of you guys.

 

303 rules. It does wonders to the top and it stays like new for a while.

 

I'm gonna break away from the pack and say I use Vinylex...great for the interior vinyl too

Just don't let the top get wet too soon afterwards cuz the runoff from Vinylex isn't pretty...

p.s. check out the "Wash and Wax" forum...those guys talk this thing to death

 

As several (all?) have already suggested 303 is the preferred choice for protection. Meguiar's #40 is also a good choice. The final top layer is vinyl and not fabric. A quality mild car wash is good enough (IMO) for general cleaning although there are many vinyl cleaners out there. Roll off has gained good reviews for stains and heavy grunge removal.
Also consider this: if you should get lint or fuzz on your top a "sticky roller" lint brush is invaluable in getting rid of it.

 

Thanks for all of the suggestions. i'm going to pick up a bottle of 303 and start treating it like all of you have suggested. Thanks again.