Top Care - Stiffness in fabric

[jimmycakes401]

I was searching through the forum about tops. My top is in decent condition. Has one small tear, but it's OOOOOLLLLLLLD and sat for 18 years. So it's really stiff. Is there a conditioner or trick I can use to get it flexible? Or are they stiff to begin with?

Also, I think I'd like to take the entire unit off. I'll be googling for a schematic for that aspect. I have the whole interior to work on, so I think I should pop it off for now.

[jimmycakes401]

Settling on McGuires #40 unless someone else has an awesome technique.

[minimike]

you've not said what the top is made of. Fabric or vinyl?
Both shrink with age and the only real cure is a replacment. You can get them online for about $120 give or take. Then
you need to get some instructions for installation.

[jimmycakes401]

oops. vinyl i believe.

[jimmycakes401]

I haven't seen any tops around $120. Mostly up near $300-$350. But I have other things I would spend money on first. Need to get it driving. I can drive with the top down! : )

[wikkid]

Leatherique makes a good leather and vinyl conditioner.

303 Products also have great stuff for vinyl - but it is mostly cleaners and then good UV protectant/preservative. Not sure if it would helf restore stiff vinyl. But a good, deep cleaning will most surely help more than anything.

Leaving the car with the top up in the sun will also soften the vinyl, and make it more workable.

[seabeelt]

I plan on using these guys as they are local in RI: http://www.convertibletopguys.com/

[jimmycakes401]

Oh wow. And the prices seem to be competitive. AND local! Nice!! I need to look more in the area for car shows and stuff.