Tried a search on this, but looks like I've only found tips for removing gum from carpet and leather seats. How about if the gum is on the convertible top?

Some jerk spit out their gum and it landed on my top while it was parked. The gum melted a little since it was sitting in the sun, so I was able to remove a majority of it. There is still a little spot that can be seen on the top like it soaked into the vinyl. Right now, it doesn't look like a layer of gum that can be scraped off. Any tips would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

You need a solvent and a brush to remove the gum.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/...oving-gum.html

Afterwards, wash and apply a vinyl protectant.

 

Before you try solvent, use the airline trick for removing gum (we get a lot of gum from passengers)

Use freon to freeze it then chip it off. With the top in a semi retracted position you should be able to fold/manipulate the top underneath the frozen gum to allow it to peel off. Use R134 or Dust off to freeze. If you don't have that get some dry ice at the food store. Use gloves when you hold it of course.

 

I would be very concerned with the top becoming brittle and cracking going this route, given that it should not be operated in freezing temps.

 

You do try to freeze the offending piece of junk. However, its not like liquid nitrogen. When the vinyl warms up its fine. You can have/hold something to support the top from the inside to work on it if you like. It does not take much to dislodge the gum.