[R&T]

I think I am going to get some 303 cleaner and protector for the top. My question is how long will this product last me? Is this something that should be done like waxing or once a year or less? My car is in the garage most of the time and gets driven about 3-5k a year and not during the winter. I pressume this is one of the best products, I know there is another brand that has been mentioned and well liked but I can't remember the name. Thanks

 

[SolNut]

Ragg Topp :thumbs:

 

[chickenwire]

I usually treat mine in the spring and mid-way through "the season" - around August. It's still being driven on clear days but as soon as the first dumping of salt is done on the roads it isn't driven until spring. I've only used the Raggtop that Nut mentioned above but a lot of people swear by the 303 also. My Raggtop is almost out so I may try the 303 next spring to get a comparison and see if I really like one versus the other.

 

[MidniteBlues]

As far as frequency it depends. I always do the top when the car gets detailed. However, it is recommend that it gets done when the water no longer beads. In my case down here in south Florida its about every 3 to 4 months. However I have gone over a year and not done it. I use Ragg Top BTW which was what is recommend by the top maker. However I also like and have used 303, I buy what is cheaper at the time I need it.... For me the sealer last for maybe 2 applications. The cleaner much much longer.. I find myself always running out of the sealer...

 

[rob the elder]

Using any protectant is a great idea. There are multiple threads on how and what product to use. There seems to be a pretty even split between 303 and Raggtopp.

Both seem to do the job. I have experience with Raggtopp and find it very effective and easy to apply. Also cleanup is very easy.

While I have not personally used 303, I have read posts that state that you need to be careful to not get it on the finish or windows as cleanup is apparently more difficult.

A couple of us contacted Haartz who manufactures the canvas top material used on our cars and they stated that they only recommend Raggtop. Not cartain why that is but that is what they told us.

The key to maintaing the top is to keep the dirt out of the weave as it causes wear on the fabric and to keep the UV protection level high. A thorough cleaning with lots of water and a soft brush, followed by vacuming the top to remove all dirt prior to treating is one of the keys to success.

 

[The_Ghost]

I think you should use Rustoleums “NeverWet” and report back on your success or failure…LOL… All kidding aside, I use 303. I found it best to pour the contents into a bowl and apply it with a paintbrush. It’s less messy and I can coat those areas better that get more weather….like the very front lip and under the buttresses. Do be careful with 303 as it contains pertroleum that nobody here was aware of until I posted the pic of the back of the bottle.... So it can be messy if you miss your top....LOL

 

[R&T]

That was quick and very detailed(no pun intended). Thanks a bunch everyone. I will look into Raggtop since you all recommend it and it is what the manufacturer recommends. I think I have seen this for sale on Autogeek so I might wait until it comes on sale. The car won't be out until March or April so I have some time. If I find it on sale I will post for others in case you need some.

Just saw your post Ghost. I saw that at Lowes. Looks like it works well on wood but it will discolor other products so it says on the can. Thought about getting some for my work boots but a buddy of mine did his and they turned a whiteish pink. That is also a good application method for the 303.

 

[Sting Ya]

Had my top replaced on my Miata last tear by a well known Cleveland auto shop and the only product that they recommended was Raggtopp

 

[sirwm]

I use raggtopp twice a year on the top.

Interestingly, I use 303 on my tires to keep them black...

 

[rob the elder]

If you are interested, and for completeness . . ..


http://www.solsticeforum.com/forum/f47/raggtopp-vs-303-a-29270/

 

[Sly Bob]

303 is the product I use after trying the Raggtopp. Won't be going back.

 

[D-ROD]

R&T, I been using the 303 fabric/vinyl cleaner and 303 protectant for about 5 years and top still looks new (06NA). I apply it once a year, usually in the spring. I'm able to buy it at a local RV store, they also use it on there tent campers.

 

[Black_Out]

Another vote for 303 here. I usually apply once a year at Thanksgiving, and although my top sees harsh sun here in SoCal, it doesn't see much rain. I find 303 easier to apply from the spray bottle with the top not quite locked into position(in order to hit the leading edge) and carefully placed garbage bags on the painted surfaces, door glass and windshield. Some blue painter's tape on the rear window and I'm good to go.

Just bought my bottle for this year on Amazon from Palm Beach Motoring, which also happens to be/own Autogeek, and any paid $18.99+$3.99 shipping for 32 oz. No sales tax and cheaper than on Autogeek's own site.

 

[chickenwire]

Don't remember who posted it on what thread but it was a tremendous idea. Use an old bed sheet, pop the top open and drape the sheet over the glass then set the top back on it. Will "mask" about 2/3 of what you want covered before spraying.

 

[rob the elder]

Good idea!

I do our tops every couple of months. One of the factors for me is that using Raggtopp is very easy and quick. After washing the car, I park them in the garage with the top up and as soon as they are dry, it takes 3-4 minutes to spray each top and I am done.

 

[R&T]

Well, it looks like I can't go wrong with either. Again, thanks for the replys and the info on application. I don't want this to turn into one of those "oil" threads as to which one is better. Both are apparently at the top of the list so I'll just pick one and go from there.

 

[rob the elder]

Well, it looks like I can't go wrong with either. Again, thanks for the replys and the info on application. I don't want this to turn into one of those "oil" threads as to which one is better. Both are apparently at the top of the list so I'll just pick one and go from there.

A wise man. :thumbs:

:agree::agree:

 

[Sly Bob]

Yep, we've been through this on here before, as well as what's the best oil, the best wax, the best battery, the list goes on.

Find what's best for you after trying a couple different products and stick to that. Then try to convince everyone else that it's the best thing since sliced bread. Consider it a challenge.

 

[R&T]

Yep, we've been through this on this before as well as what's the best oil, the best wax, the best battery, the list goes on.

Find what's best for you after trying a couple different products and stick to that. Then try to convince everyone else that it's the best thing since sliced bread. Consider it a challenge.

I like the way you think. :lol:

 

[chickenwire]

Personally, I would never put oil on my convertible top. But that's just me.