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stupid question re convert top care

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Old 02-01-2019, 09:46 PM
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audi49
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Default stupid question re convert top care

My 987 is my first convertible I've ever owned. So first stupid question regarding it... when I wash the car do I use the same car wash detergent on the top as on the rest of the car?
And while I'm at it, what is recommended for treating, caring for the top over the long haul? Thanks.
Old 02-01-2019, 10:11 PM
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Marine Blue
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Lots of info posted on this but the consensus is Ragg Topp for cleaning and protectant. 303 also has a well respected product.

I use a lint roller on mine and it’s done a great job of keeping it clean although mine doesn’t see much weather.
Old 02-01-2019, 10:43 PM
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storii
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No, you shouldn't use the car wash soap on the canvas convertible top. You don't have to wash the top every time you wash the car, either. I wash mine 1-2 times a year using the RaggTopp cleaner. I use a lint roller or a soft brush to keep it clean in the meantime. I treat the top with the RaggTopp protectant just once a year but my car is garaged and it doesn't see rains.
Old 02-01-2019, 11:13 PM
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GregWormald
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Don't wash it with soap at all!

A lint roller takes off any larger bits.
If it's dusty then a brush with a soft horsehair brush does the job.

Wash and re-coat once or twice a year--Ragg Top or 303 products all get good reviews.

p.s.--not a stupid question at all!
Old 02-02-2019, 10:22 AM
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Prisoner48
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Another vote for the 303 and lint brush solution, I posed the same question after I purchased my 09 Boxster. Costco had a great deal on lint brushes yesterday, 5 large ones for $13.00!
Old 02-02-2019, 10:36 AM
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Dave in Chicago
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As noted above, don't wash it. If it's really nasty, I spray it with plain water. Else, just lint roller as needed, Nothing too aggressive. Pretty impressive, this fabric.

I also vacuum the top thoroughly with a brush attachment prior to treating with RaggTopp protectant as directed on the can (3 light coats, if I recall). I treat mine a few times a year, as the car sees daily use.

Do yourself a favor and buy a set of these:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Porsche-Box...-/191595585977

Put them in your glovebox. You will thank me later
Old 02-09-2019, 01:05 PM
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Kitc2246
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Default stupid question re rag top care

I have a 2009 Boxster. Do NOT use car wash on the convertible top. I use a convertible top cleaner once a year and then rewater proof. Using 303 product now. Watch for weakening of the elastic that keep the edge inside the window frame. My right side is starting to get outside when closed. There is a Utube on a cheap fix with elastic from Michaels.
Old 02-09-2019, 01:17 PM
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n4v4nod
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Not to hijack the thread... but this is when I appreciate the 987.2 Spyder roof... you can completely remove the roof and treat... no elastics or parts that wear. It’s the most under appreciated Porsche designed roof out there. Plus ultra lightweight.

Back to the OP... agree with everyone’s comments... water rinse if it gets dusty, use specific convertible wash. Use lint roller for regular cleaning. Treat more often if it’s subject to the elements (Sun, rain, snow).
Old 02-09-2019, 10:32 PM
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audi49
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Originally Posted by Kitc2246
I have a 2009 Boxster. Do NOT use car wash on the convertible top. I use a convertible top cleaner once a year and then rewater proof. Using 303 product now. Watch for weakening of the elastic that keep the edge inside the window frame. My right side is starting to get outside when closed. There is a Utube on a cheap fix with elastic from Michaels.
I noticed this after I picked up my car. Both sides had the edge on the onside of that plastic frame (over a few inches of length). Haven't driven the car with top down due to weather since so I assumed it would sort of fix itself (since I helped it stay inside when I put the top up). Looks like it'll need a fix.
BTW... after properly tucking in the edge of the top the wind noise dropped significantly at highway speeds.
Found the youtube link...

Last edited by audi49; 02-09-2019 at 10:49 PM.
Old 02-10-2019, 09:24 AM
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Dave in Chicago
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Yep. It's an age thing. Sooner or later the elastic is just too worn to function perfectly. This and the pushrod ball joint are the two age/use related repair items I've had to address. Good news is that both are relatively minor items, well documented, and easy to fix. Good luck!
Old 02-10-2019, 11:07 AM
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Kitc2246
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Default stupid question re rag top care

Forgot about the push rod ball joints. One of mine broke last year. As you state parts are cheap and DIY replacement with Utube.



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