CRG Discussion Forum

Camaro Research Group Discussion => General Discussion => Topic started by: 69Z28-RS on October 17, 2011, 05:52:04 PM

Title: Vinyl Top Preservation
Post by: 69Z28-RS on October 17, 2011, 05:52:04 PM
It's been awhile since I've posted on here, so hopefully this will work.

My '69 Z28-RS has the original vinyl top (black).   It is in great condition for being 42+ yrs old, but it is drying out and shrinking a little...  in spite of my efforts every few years to apply a 'vinyl top preservative'.. 
My question is:    Is there anything else I can do to further preserve this top?  My car is unrestored, so I'm just cleaning and trying to put back the few original items that I removed many years ago.  I hope to enter it in the 'Unrestored Original' category at the nationals at some point.

Any suggestions appreciated..

Gary Wylie
'69 Z28-RS
Title: Re: Vinyl Top Preservation
Post by: lakeholme on October 17, 2011, 08:27:06 PM
First, you need to CLEAN and SEAL a vinyl top from time to time. But you already know that.
In light of the condition you describe, you might want to try a marine vinyl cleaner/preservative like 3M makes. You need to insure the elasticity of old vinyl.
Also, I know some folks who swear by Raceglaze or Moreshine for vinyl.
Title: Re: Vinyl Top Preservation
Post by: OG69Z on October 19, 2011, 01:52:23 AM
Hi,
     I use the GM Vinyl Cleaner. It is specifically for vinyl tops. I've had it for some time, I hope it is still available. I have also used a similar product from BMW, which might be a good option for you.
(http://i277.photobucket.com/albums/kk64/69Hillbillybob/Camaro/VinylCleaner.jpg)
Title: Re: Vinyl Top Preservation
Post by: 69z28rsbilly on December 04, 2011, 06:02:15 AM
A friend of mine has a 1970 SS Chevelle with its original black vinyl top .
He preserves his top with Mop n Glow........and it looks great........
Title: Re: Vinyl Top Preservation
Post by: lakeholme on December 04, 2011, 01:11:38 PM
Yes, Mop n Glow works as long as you buff it pot real well.  But it doesn't really preserve a vinyl top --just makes it shine...
Title: Re: Vinyl Top Preservation
Post by: Charley on December 04, 2011, 02:51:00 PM
Might not apply here but Mr Clean Magic Eraser does a great job of cleaning vinyl tops.