I just purchased a 2003 silverstone/red s2000 and live in palm springs. The temps in summer can average 115 and the sun is intense. I have no shade to park in at my work so I purchased a cover. Am I bieng anal or is this a good idea. Also, this is the first covertible I've owned and was wondering if anyone had some tips in regard to cleaning
and general upkeep. Thanks!

 

I would walk up into the Wash and Wax section of this Forum @ Wash & Wax

 

Wash as you wash the car, dry, and apply 303 Protectant.

Ask about it in the Wash and Wax forum.

 

Cover is definitely a good idea.
No, you are not being anal.....UV light is damaging to ANY car.
Suggest: Car cover is OK. Beater car for daily driving is even better idea.
Cheers,
Daniel

 

Uv protection is important. There is a product called 303 aerospace protectant that works well. There is full description on their web site. Just type in 303 protectant on Yahoo. I have used this stuff and it goes on well and looks good, time will tell.

 

Actually you are being extremely anal. However, you are in EXCELLENT company here. A cover is just where it starts for a lot of people here.

 

A car cover is a great idea to keep your car from premature aging in the intense desert sun and heat.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by ruexp67
[B]Actually you are being extremely anal.

 

Promking,

Bold move getting a ragtop in your neck of the woods. Damn hot out there.

Excellent idea to keep it protected. Cover or not, you'd do well to get vinyl protector on the top.

 

The paint should be cared for like the paint on any other car. However, the vinyl convertible top requires a protectant like "303", which they advertise as "SPF 30 for your ...".

The stuff has an excellent reputation among boat owners, who have a lot of convertible top acreage exposed to brutal sunlight conditions. That's what convinced me. Plus, I like the way it makes tires and the top look: black with a little sheen, but not glossy.