With fall here in San Diego, comes moist mornings. I used a convertible top "sealer" that I found at a large name auto store a few weeks ago. However I am starting to see water marks left by the morning dew on the top. Can anyone recommend another sealer/protectant for my top?

Thanks,

 

Although forum members has posted of use of several products, including Scotch Guard Fabric Protector, Raggtopp is probably the most often used. They also sell a top cleaner that should be used before the sealant. I have used both with complete satisfaction.

Application is a little complex in that the car must be protected from over spray as if you were painting the top.

 

I agree with Test Point...I have used RaggTopp with great success. If you apply it outside do it on a still day and tape off your windows. Some people have had success using plastic wrap. It sticks nicely to the windows.

 

Raggtop worked great for me too...

 

I used the RaggTopp product and was pleased with the results. This might help http://jagrepair.com/RoofConditioning.htm from Amazon.com

 

I use the 303 products and have very good results.

http://www.303products.com/shop303/i...e-top-kits.cfm

 

Raggtopp and 303 both worked well for me. Of the two, 303 seemed better. The spray pattern is much tighter, so easier to apply where you want it and not where you don't. 303 seems to last a bit longer too.

 

I used the 303 cleaner and protectant last spring and it still beads up well. It took longer to mask off the surrounding area than it took to apply the 303. The top looks like new.

 

Just another vote for the 303. Use it on the boat too and it holds up well. 303 also is better IMHO than other rubber protectors for the rest of the car.

 

|I will throw my vote behind 303, easy to apply and lasts a good long time. Just going to reapply mine now after initial application in February.

Also count me as a fan. Have been using 303 on everything plastic or rubber for years with great results. Keeps me coming back. Makes my 30 year old triumph shine like she is new.

Kip

 

I have been using 303 for years on two boats and two cars. 303 is designed for the marine environment, hot sun, salt water, milldew and neglect but it keeps on working. There is a 303 for fabric and another one for vinyl and other stuff.

 

One more for 303. I applied with foam roller and a smaller brush. Still beading after 4 months in Florida sun and rain

 

Thanks for the suggestions. Now to find some....

 

applying 303 - "a foam roller and a small brush" - I wonder if that wouldn't simplify the application of RaggTop? (pour it out in a pan and apply it!) Any real reason to spray it on - requiring all the paint/body/trim masking cover-up? Anyone with experience willing to give it a try? Thanks from the timid among us. DaleD

 

Jenni,

303 can be purchased online at autozone.com not sure about the other product...

Kip

 

If Autozone does not have it, try West Marine I know that they do. I spray mine with a detail HVLP gun and get a perfect application, the bottle spray is hit and miss.

 

Thanks to all those who replied to my "caring for xkr soft top" query. 303 is the one I'm going to try and have just found a UK supplier "The Polishing Company" via the link on Max's post (thanks Max). According to the guy at The Polishing Co there is no need to mask the car as the spray just wipes off...hmm think I might mask on a just incase basis.
Cheers everyone

 

Sorry to revive an old thread but here's a different take on this - I live in Dubai, where it almost never rains (last time was a year ago) and have just bought my first ever convertible - a 2008 XK. I'm interested to know what you all think is the best way of looking after the soft-top with regard to preventing sun damage (apart from parking underground!) to it. The top is in very good condition for now but I'd like to pre-empt any damage and protect it straight away - any suggestions?

 

With the UV you get there have you thought about a fitted cover?
I use one to keep off the farm cats, not the UV!

 

The "303" product that is popular here for shedding water also clams to offer UV protection. Having used it on several different materials, I feel pretty certain that it really does.

Gives a little bit of soft luster to the top as well.

Good stuff.