Convertible (Fabric) Top Cleaning & Protecting

[Pristine Image]

I have my first convertible coming in for some needed love, a 2005 Jaguar XKR, in about two weeks with a black fabric top that's in good shape. I haven't had previous experience in convertible top care but I've read and watched plenty of information on the proper techniques. My problem lies in what products should I use for cleaning and protecting the fabric top. What are your preferred cleaners and protectants when it comes to fabric top convertibles to get what you feel are the best results (economically)?

[Eldorado2k]

As far as cleaning, my advice would be to 1st start off with a good vacuuming of the fabric top. It's much better to do this instead of trying to rinse all the dirt off with water. [same as you would vacuum floormatts prior to shampooing them]
But you have to use the proper brush attachment, such as this 1.

http://www.autogeek.net/shop-vac-soft-brush.html

Next step is rinse with the hoze nozzle, and then spray your choice of convertible top cleaner. Either Raggtop, 303, in this case I used Meguiars.

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You want to make sure you choose the right brush to scrub the top. Choose 1 that's too weak and it won't fully clean, choose 1 that's too stiff and you could fray the fabric. I recommend something like a flag tipped wheel brush, a soft nylon brush, and the best choice would be the new Raggtop Convertable Top Brush sold here on AG.

http://www.autogeek.net/raggtopp-premium-top-brush.html

They also sell a kit with all you'll need. Brush,Cleaner, Fabric Protectant.

http://www.autogeek.net/raggtopp-premium-fabric-kit.html

Scrub gently.

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Rinse till there's no trace of suds. This requires lots of rinsing.
Blot dry with a large clean waffle weave, and allow to fully dry in the sun.

Then tape off around the top because you're not going to want any of that fabric protectant to get on the windows or anywhere else on the vehicle.

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Follow the directions on the label of the fabric protectant, and you should be good to go.

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Good luck!

[BadgerRivFan]

^^^ Good post! ^^^ Thank you Eldorado2k... Appreciate the link to the shop-vac soft brush attachment. I did not know AG carried these. +2 on using the RaggTopp products. I have not used them on a fabric convertible top but they are great on vinyl convertible tops. I'm sure the fabric top version is just as effective.

[rlmccarty2000]

I much prefer 303 products to Raggtopp, especially on the fabric protectant side. The 303 Fabric Protectant is much easier to spray vs. the aerosol spray of Raggtopp. I liked to pour 303 into a container and brush on to my fabric top.

[Riff]

I use the 303 products on mine and they work excellent.

[The Guz]

Check out Mike's write up

http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/new-car-care-products/104613-new-haartz-raggtopp-convertible-top-brush-how-clean-protect-convertible-top.html

[Eldorado2k]

@The Guz. You tryin to say mines no good?😏lol. J/k.

[richy]

Guys, don't forget DG 341 marine protectant. It was designed for boat tops...you know the beating they take. I find it does darken the top a bit and it beads nicely. It will waterproof darn near anything, including cement!!