JFitz

I've got 303 cleaner and treatment in the mail already, but I feel like these darker spots might take some elbow grease.

Also, I noticed in the rain last night the water doesn't bead up, it seems to absorb. I was positive I had a vinyl top. Now...I'm not sure.

Any tips guys? First convertible. Original top.

White05GT

Formula 409 and a scrub brush if it's a vinyl top. Works on my sisters tan top.

jesse1125

In walmart auto dept get an RV awning cleaner and scrub top with a nylon brush.

JFitz

I don't have any other to compare it with. Are there any specific differences between Vinyl and Cloth that I can easily determine?

05screaminyellow

that is a vinyl top for sure ... the light color is hard to keep clean my neighbour has a red vert with tan top she uses 409 diluted with water to clean it with a medium bristle scrub brush

JFitz

Alright then. I'll try that if the 303 doesn't get it out.

BrazenStang

The vinyl plastic top repels water differently than the paint on your car. It seems like the water is absorbing, but it is just the characteristics of the vinyl.

Light-colored convertible tops are the hardest to keep clean. I would try Dawn with a medium-bristle brush. That is really great at removing grease and grime. Also, Dawn should remove any protectants, waxes, etc.

Once you have finished cleaning, no matter what chemical you use, you should use 303 or similar UV protectant. Don't use armor all or an interior vinyl cleaner/protectant. It will leave streaks on the windows when it rains. The protectant will keep the top from cracking and drying out. It will also help keep stains from forming, and allow normal washing to remove any smudges.

I had an '02 'Vert that I never put in a garage for 11 years. I used Blue Magic Vinyl protectant/cleaner ~3 times per year on the top. The top was original and mint condition when I traded it in. Good luck with cleaning!

HDeuce5

If Dawn doesn't work, I just bought a convertable top cleaner from Auto Zone and a toothbrush that worked wonders to get bird poop off mine.

JFitz

Thanks for the help guys. I'll try it out tomorrow and see what I can figure out.