What You'll Learn
Aussie Conditions
Look, owning a convertible in Australia is great until the roof starts looking like an old rag. Between the brutal UV in Queensland and the red dust that seems to find its way into every fiber, these tops need a bit of love. I've spent years fixing tops that owners thought were goners, so I'm going to walk you through the proper way to scrub 'em and seal 'em. Whether you've got a classic MX-5 or a modern Euro, the process is pretty much the same.
The Reality of Soft Tops in Australia
The Gear You'll Actually Need
What You'll Need
While you're here...
Getting the Beast Ready
Avoid the midday sun
Never, ever do this at midday in 40-degree heat. The cleaner will dry instantly and leave nasty streaks. Wait for a cool arvo or do it in the shade of the carport.
The 'Dry' Clean
Before you get anything wet, give the roof a good vacuum with a soft brush attachment. You want to get that loose red dust and grit out of the weave before it turns into mud.
Rinse thoroughly
Give the whole car a wash first. You don't want dirt from the bonnet splashing up onto your clean roof later on.
The Deep Clean and Protect Process
Wet the roof down
Get the fabric nice and soaked with a gentle stream from the hose. Don't use a pressure washer too close, I've seen blokes blow holes right through old canvas.
Apply the cleaner
Spray your cleaner evenly across the roof. Work in sections, maybe do the driver's side first, then the passenger's.
The Gentle Scrub
Use your horsehair brush in small circular motions. You'll see the suds turn brown or grey, that's years of Aussie road grime coming out. Be patient around the seams.
Dwell time
Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, but don't let it dry. If it's a hot day, mist it with a bit of water to keep it active.
The Big Rinse
Rinse it until the water runs completely clear. If you leave soap in the fibers, the waterproofer won't stick, and you've wasted your time.
Dry it proper
This is the most important part. The roof needs to be bone dry before you protect it. I usually leave it in the sun for a few hours or use a wet-vac to pull the moisture out. If you seal a damp roof, you're just trapping mildew.
Masking up
Once it's dry, cover your windows and paint with those old sheets or plastic. Fabric sealant is a nightmare to get off paintwork once it cures.
Apply the Protectant
Spray your 303 or Gtechniq sealant in overlapping passes. Don't drown it, two thin coats are heaps better than one thick, drippy one.
The Cross-Hatch
Apply the second coat in the opposite direction (north-south then east-west) to make sure you've hit every side of the fabric weave.
Wipe the excess
If any spray gets on the rubber seals or trim, wipe it off immediately with a damp cloth.
The Cure
Let it cure for 24 hours before it gets wet. Check the weather, don't do this if a classic afternoon southerly buster is rolling in.
Watch Out
The Lint Roller Trick
Maintaining the Look
Common Questions I Get Asked
Can I put my soft top through an automatic car wash?
My roof has gone green/mouldy, is it ruined?
Should I use a 'colour restorer' or dye?
What about vinyl tops? Are they different?
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