vette67

I've seen several threads on this site where people have said that they intend to dye their faded convertible top, but nobody seems to have followed up to report how it went, what the best product might be to use, what to watch out for, etc.

I've seen recommendations for using vinyl dye on the top and I've seen recommendations for using canvas dye... still not sure if my top is vinyl impregnated or not, and it seems like an important question.

Anyone actually done this yet?

TIA!

2000 996 Cab 4

LVDell

I passed. I inquired about it when the dealer said that top fade was no longer covered by the factory warranty (PCNA decided this just 2months before I asked!)

I checked into dye and since my top was grey I was told by numerous sites and places that black is the only top that really takes dye well. Most of the dyes (if not all) are black and non-black tops don't take it as well. So, I changed to a black top knowing that if I ever dye in the future, I am already one step ahead of the game.

UNC Nick

Can't help on the dye route, but if you look at replacement I an definitely relate some recent experiences. Just did it on my 2000.

vette67

Thanks Nick. Hopefully I won't have to go that route.

Good idea Dell. Mine is a blue top and I figure I can change that to black, worst case.

Jeff

C4 Pazzo

Before dyeing or replacing, try Raggtop protectant. I used it on my 2000 metropol blue top a year ago and it made a huge difference. It made the top much darker (less faded) and water beads up now.

vette67

Thanks C4, that sounds like it would be a lot easier than dyeing!

First, a really dumb question:

Raggtop has a product for fabric and another product for vinyl. Our '00 C4 Cab tops are vinyl, right??

LVDell

No, vinyl is like the old targa tops. The 996/986 tops are canvas (fabric).

vette67

c4 Pazzo,

Thanks man. Raggtop worked great!

Cheers,
Jeff