The Secret to Perfect Convertible Top Repair is here
- 1. Sew it Up In case the top of the convertible has some damage, you can take a strongly curved needle and a strong thread or wire. ...
- 2. Tape and Glue Now get inside the car and use masking tape to hide the bottom of the tear. ...
- 3. Cut Canvas ...
- 4. Seal ...
- 5. Clean Up ...
Full Answer
How difficult is it to replace a convertible top?
There’s one crucial thing to keep in mind: As much as you may feel tempted to try some DIY repairs or installation, replacing a convertible top can be a complicated task. If it is not performed correctly, you can cause a fatal leak, damage to the interior, or even catastrophic failure.
How often do you need to replace a convertible top?
How often do you need to replace the convertible? The average life of a convertible top is about ten years, depending on its exposure to the elements and usage. Vinyl tops age differently than cloth tops. Do convertibles cost more to insure? Convertibles Not Only Cost More To Buy, They Cost More To Insure.
What is the best way to clean my convertible top?
- Vacuum the roof using soft attachment.
- Park in shade (not direct sun light).
- Rinse the rooftop off with water to remove loose dirt.
- Spray cleaner onto the roof.
- Use a scrub brush or recommended applicator to apply.
- Do not let the cleaner dry on the roof.
- Thoroughly rinse the cleaner from the top of the care with cool water.
How do I take care of a convertible top?
- Use a very soft bristle scrub brush and water to clean the convertible top
- Use a non-detergent-based car roof cleaner and protectant
- Use a microfibre drying towel to dry the roof
- Use a lint roller to remove lint, dirt, and other small particles
- Always wash your car in the shade, out of direct sunlight
Can you repair a convertible top?
If you have noticed that there is a hole in your vinyl convertible top, you can patch it fairly easy with a repair kit and a little knowhow. Here is an easy guide to fixing a hole in a vinyl convertible top. The first step in the process of repairing your vinyl convertible top is closely inspecting the damage.
How much does it cost to fix the top of a convertible?
$900 To $1500The Estimated Price For Replacing A Convertible Top Runs From $900 To $1500. The price of replacing a convertible top is largely dependent on the make and model of your vehicle. But in most cases, the costs include the following: One replacement top (including pop rivets, staples, hold-down cables, and adhesive)
Why is my convertible top not working?
If a convertible top simply doesn't go up or down when you engage the switch, the cause may be a bad fuse, lift cylinder, or relay. When a convertible top gets stuck in the process, it is most likely caused by a lift cylinder or a broken cable.
Does Flex tape work on convertible tops?
Flex Tape is a great way to fix tears in fabric. We've had customers use it on their convertible tops with great success.
Does insurance cover convertible tops?
If you have full coverage the insurance will pay to replace your convertible top, less your deductable. * However a convertible top is considered a wear item, meaning that every year older the top is, it is worth less (prorated).
How long does a convertible top last?
A properly maintained convertible top lasts an average of 5-7 years. 2. Never put a convertible top down when the temperature is below 60 degrees.
How do you fix a soft top convertible?
0:113:13Car Soft Top / Convertible Roof Repair (also Awnings Canopies and Tents)YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe cuts are about 3 inches long and first thing to do is just to tidy them up and remove any frayedMoreThe cuts are about 3 inches long and first thing to do is just to tidy them up and remove any frayed bits of material. And then make sure they're completely flat on a surface.
What kind of fluid goes in a convertible top?
NOTE-Pumps and cylinders purchased from Convertible Top Specialists may be filled with fluid, this fluid will either be Dextron III automatic transmission fluid or mineral hydraulic oil. The fluids are compatible with each other but not with brake fluid.
How do I reset my VW convertible top?
1:212:28Volkswagen Beetle Power Window Reactivating / Resetting ProcedureYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo you stick your key. In hold it on unlock. And all the windows will roll. Down. Then what you doMoreSo you stick your key. In hold it on unlock. And all the windows will roll. Down. Then what you do is you go ahead and you put it to the lock position and hold it and all the windows will roll up.
Can I use Flex Seal tape on my car?
Once it dries, it forms into a rubberized material that won't crack or break even under extreme weather conditions. Flex Seal also comes in a range of products that can help you fix other issues in your cars, such as the Flex Tape and Flex Glue, so you can say that Flex Seal is every car owner's best friend.
Can you use flex glue on a car?
0:011:22Rev-Up Repairs with The Flex Seal® Family of Products. - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipHere when you need to fix your car truck or van nothing compares to the flex seal family of productsMoreHere when you need to fix your car truck or van nothing compares to the flex seal family of products make fast emergency roadside repairs. And help get your family home safe just a quick coat helps
Can You Use Flex Seal on car roof?
7:2310:11Flex Seal for the roof of your vehicle? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIt. I did not say i found like the perfect way to do it and that it became. Easy just easier brushMoreIt. I did not say i found like the perfect way to do it and that it became. Easy just easier brush this one over here.
How hard is it to replace a convertible top?
We've found with experience that convertible top installation is one of the hardest installation jobs that you'll run into with your car, so we would recommend leaving it to professionals.
How do you fix a tear in a convertible top?
0:003:20How to cheaply fix your ripped convertible roof for £3 - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWe can use some isopropyl alcohol.MoreWe can use some isopropyl alcohol.
Is it OK to leave a convertible outside?
Soft top convertibles can be kept outside but it's better to keep them garaged, especially during the winter months when they're more susceptible to being damaged by the cold, wet conditions.
How much does it cost to replace a Mini convertible top?
The total cost to replace a mini cooper convertible top can vary greatly. If you do the job yourself, you may spend between $700-$1,500. However, if you hire a professional to do it for you, this range increases to $1,000-$3,000.
What does it mean when a convertible top is taut?
Years of moving the convertible top up and down, making the top taut then loose, changing temperatures from hot to cold, in wet and dry conditions means your convertible top material has been put through extreme contrasts. Quality convertible tops have material that is made to hold up to that stress, but it has limits.
How long is a convertible top warranty?
All of the tops we sell include an industry-leading, 6-year warranty, and most tops with glass windows include a Lifetime Window Bond Warranty for the original purchaser -- so even if you decide to buy a new top, you’re getting that plus the warranty. That should provide an extra sense of security, something a convertible top repair simply can’t provide.
What happens when you take the top off a convertible?
When you take the top off the frame and start handling it for a repair, you push those limits. One of the most common things that we hear from convertible owners is that when they take their old top off the vehicle, they see that it was in much worse shape than they realized.
Can you use duct tape on a convertible top?
First things first, there are no conventional adhesives which will hold patches on vinyl or clothing convertible top materials. So that’s one of the reasons you see convertible tops with duct tape instead of patches -- there just isn’t an adhesive that does the job well. So you’ll need to use something to seal your tear and hold ...
Do you need to use a patch to seal a tear?
So you’ll need to use something to seal your tear and hold the patch and that’s why people use stitching. Stitching, of course, presents issues with waterproofing, so any stitches done will need to be sealed, so you don’t get water through the repair. If you need to use a patch, you’re going to need to remove the top from ...
Can you repair a convertible top?
Repairing a convertible top is not as easy as stitches and patches.
Do you need to take the convertible top off the frame?
For these convertible top repairs, you’ll need to take the convertible top off the frame for the popular stitch-patch-and-seal job. And it’s this fact -- the need to take the convertible top off the frame -- that presents the biggest hurdle in repairing your convertible top.
How to fix a tear in a convertible?
You can leave it as it is or do some cosmetic fixing to make it nearly invisible. Use a caulk gun to apply sealant on the tear line. Trim the canvas cloth to collect a pile of short-cut fibers and put them on the tear line to hi de it. Apply more sealant on the trimmed fabrics and spread them evenly with a paintbrush. Wait for a while for the sealant to dry up.
How to cover a tear in canvas?
Cut a Patch. With scissors, cut the canvas cloth into an oval or circular shape, as long as it is large enough to cover the tear or hole. If it’s a long tear, a rectangular shape covering the whole length of the tear will be a more practical choice.
How to fix a convertible top without sewing?
Apply glass cleaner on the fixed area and its surroundings and then wipe off with a squeegee. Wait for a day or two to let everything dry up properly. Well, this is how to repair convertible top without sewing and breaking a sweat.
How long does it take for glue to dry on a patch?
Apply a layer of adhesive on the outlined area and one side of the patch. Wait for some time, around 10 to 15 minutes, for the glue to dry up.
How to fix a car that has a tear?
Before starting the fixing process, you will need to prepare the damaged area by cleaning it thoroughly. Move the car to a shaded place and remove the dust and dirt surrounding the tear. You have to clean the area from both outside and inside. Wait for it to dry up before moving to the repair part.
Can a convertible top tear?
A convertible’s top has to endure considerable tension all the time. If there is a tiny rip or hole, it will tear across the top in no time because of that huge tension. Here’s an easy DIY method to repair a convertible top.
How to repair a convertible top?
Step 1 - Sew it Up. Take a strongly curved needle and either some strong thread or fine wire. Use the needle to stitch up the damage to the convertible top. This will be time-consuming, so have patience and make sure you sew up a tear properly.
How to fix a tear in a canvas car?
Once you have sewn the replacement patch of canvas onto one side of the tear, seal the stitching holes with the same glue you used earlier . Either apply a layer all the way around the stitching or place small beads of glue in between the thread or wire. This will stop moisture from the air or rain from soaking into the replacement patch and inside the car. Apply generous amounts and sand away any glue, which sticks out after it has dried.
How to repair a tear in a car?
Cut a replacement piece of marine canvas, which will be large enough to cover the tear with an excess of 1 to 2 inches. Mirror the shape of the tear as closely as you can. Mark out the shape precisely and cut it with a sharp pair of scissors. Wait until the glue you have already used is dry and remove the tape on the interior of the car and start to sew the replacement patch over the tear. You can sew the patch on the outside of the tear if the canvas you are using is the same type and color. You can also dye the patch if you want it to go on the outside. This will make the tear less noticeable.
Can you repair a convertible roof yourself?
Knowing some convertible top repair techniques will come in handy if your convertible roof has broken or developed a rip. Making these small repairs is actually quite simple and can be performed by any DIYer. By repairing a car convertible top yourself, you can save a great deal of time and money.
How to repair a convertible top?
How to Repair your Convertible Top. If you own a convertible car, at some point or other you will most likely have to repair tears in your convertible top. Small tears that are less than twelve inches in length can be easily fixed by sewing them with an upholstery needle and upholstery thread, just as you would repair a damaged piece of clothing. ...
Where is Roberto's auto trim located?
Roberto’s Auto Trim in Orange County, California handles all types of upholstery work including automotive, marine and even furniture. With over 40 years of experience, Roberto’s reputation for high quality interiors is unmatched. Some of the top automotive dealerships in Orange County use Roberto’s Auto Trim for their repair and replacement work. If you have questions about your convertible top or another upholstery project, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.
What Components Make Up A Convertible Top?
A convertible top is part of the upholstery and the total structural component . This means that it needs to create a tight seal when you have it closed so your car is secured. It also needs to be able to flex easily so it can fold down when you want the top down. So, you might be wondering how is this possible? The convertible top fabric is stretched over the metal frame using different types of bolts, springs, and stables. This fabric provides thermal and sound insulation when the convertible top is up.
How Does A Convertible Top Work?
It is important to fully understand what a convertible top is. A convertible top is any car roof that folds back. The majority of times this top fits directly over a frame made out of steel or aluminum. The specifics of how your car functions are dependent on the make and model of your car. When you are looking to get a convertible top repair, you should understand that there are two different types of convertible tops. The two types are electrical and manual.
How does a hydraulic top work?
You might be wondering how this works? The hydraulic systems will utilize a pump that helps push fluid. This fluid will go to different motors throughout the system. If the pump is on, there will be fluid that flows through the system. This will spin the motors. If your fluid goes down the wrong path, it can cause the convertible top to malfunction. The fluid is a crucial part of making sure the motors work. They help aid to allow the convertible top to move up and down.
How much does it cost to fix a convertible top?
Typically you will spend anywhere from $500 to $1,000 on a convertible top repair. Some of the other factors that will affect the cost are the extent of the damage, the make and model of the car, the year of the car, and the location that you live in.
What is the safety feature of a convertible top?
The frame of a convertible top gives the car some structural support. Additionally, there are fixed roll bars that attach behind the seats. This is another safety feature since there is no actual roof to provide extra support. This also means that the doors are stronger to reduce the car from flexing. These added bars give better support, but they make it more complex to fix when there is a problem with the car.
Is an aftermarket convertible top cheaper?
The aftermarket tops tend to be a cheaper option for individuals. These convertible tops don’t have as strict of guidelines when they are being constructed. The aftermarket tops also have more design and color options, but they may not fit as well as the OEM convertible tops. No matter what you decide to purchase, it is important to know the difference and be aware of what you are receiving.
Can a convertible top be repaired?
Are you having problems with your convertible top? A convertible top repair can be a little more difficult than you might think. There are many different components that need to line up to ensure that everything works properly. It can be difficult to get the top mechanism to work properly after it has been broken and the roller bars could pop up causing many different problems.
What Convertible Top Made Of?
Since it modified the horse buggies and innovative extras such as windshields and roofs. Gradually, the car became more powerful, and innovative. They started to give a rooftop for the cars. The first tops were generally made from leather or fabric such as canvas…
What is a cloth convertible top?
Most cloth (canvas) convertible tops are made using three plies: an acrylic square-weave outer layer, a butyl rubber inner material and a cotton drill lining layer. There are many available colors for cloth convertible rooftop for instance: blue, white, black, beige, tan, gray, green, brown and burgundy.
Why do people use vinyl convertible tops?
Vinyl has been used for car tops since the earliest days cars had tops. It was used to mimic the leather often used on horse buggies and was found to be easier to maintain yet still quite durable. Vinyl convertible tops are easier to clean than the cloth alternative, which is one main reason that drivers choose them.
Why do cloth tops need more maintenance than vinyl?
Cloth tops require a bit more maintenance than vinyl tops because they’re more susceptible to absorbing dirt, but if they become damaged, it’s often possible to repair rather than replace them.
How to keep a convertible car top in good shape?
You can browse online to find the best maintenance tips for keeping the convertible car top in the best shape. 1. Sew it Up. In case the top of the convertible has some damage, you can take a strongly curved needle and a strong thread or wire. Use the two to cover up the damage on the convertible top.
How to repair a tear in a car?
Make sure to mark the shape precisely and cut the same using a pair of sharp scissors. Cut a piece of marine canvas to cover the tear, but make sure to cut at least 1 to 2 inches extra. Now, wait until the glue is dry and then remove the tape on the interior of the car. Sew the replacement patch to cover the tear.
What materials are convertible roofs made of?
You may wonder what convertible rooftop is made of? So basically, there are two materials which car makers used to make convertible tops. They are vinyl and fabric. 1.
How to keep windshield from taut?
Open the top slightly so that it is not taut. Prop something such as a small empty box between the front edge of the top and the upper edge of the windshield frame so that the top stays open slightly. ...
How to tell if canvas is flat on glass?
Close the roof completely to see where the canvas falls on the glass when pulled gently flat as far in on the glass as it will go, but not pulled hard. At least in the case of cotton canvas, this will probably be not as far up onto the glass as originally (or as on a still-attached inside layer) because it will have shrunk since new.
When to reattach canvas to glass?
Reattach the soft top material ("canvas") to the glass when just part of the canvas has detached so that the glass does not have to be re-centered within the hole in the canvas.
Is it better to fix a top or replace it?
But this is a great alternative to replacing the top.
Can you replace a hood with glue?
You could contact the manufacturer or a mechanic to see what they recommend. Usually , though, they will tell you to replace the entire hood. The glue or tape techniques work well for just about any car.
Can you reattach a glass window on a convertible?
Modern soft convertible car tops often have glass windows glued to the cloth, vinyl or other soft material with a melted plastic strip instead of a clear vinyl window sewn to it. If and when the glass comes unstuck -- sometimes due to the canvas shrinking from neglect or otherwise -- it can be very difficult to reattach.
Step 1 - Sew It Up
Step 2 - Tape and Glue
- Get inside the car and use some masking tape to hide the bottom of the tear. This is important because it will hold the tear together and it will stop any glue from leaking through to the interior. It will stop the thread or wire from breaking while you prepare a replacement patch. Once you have done this, take a heavy duty and strong glue. Apply it all over the seam you have created o…
Step 3 - Cut Canvas
- Cut a replacement piece of marine canvas, which will be large enough to cover the tear with an excess of 1 to 2 inches. Mirror the shape of the tear as closely as you can. Mark out the shape precisely and cut it with a sharp pair of scissors. Wait until the glue you have already used is dry and remove the tape on the interior of the car and start to sew the replacement patch over the te…
Step 4 - Seal
- Once you have sewn the replacement patch of canvas onto one side of the tear, seal the stitching holes with the same glue you used earlier. Either apply a layer all the way around the stitching or place small beads of glue in between the thread or wire. This will stop moisture from the air or rain from soaking into the replacement patch and inside the car. Apply generous amounts and s…
Step 5 - Tidy
- Tidy your handy work by checking for ragged fibers. Use the scissors you used to cut the canvas to cut away any excess material. Use your hands to gently check that the replacement patch has been attached tightly to the existing canvas. Your repair to the convertible top is complete.