Top Storage

[CJD]

Just wanted to ask how you guys store your hoods? If left off, they tend to shrink over time, making a tight fit even worse. If left on the car, they place a lot of stress on the windscreen.

So what are you guys doing with your tops?

John

 

[tomgt6]

When I put the car away in the winter I leave the top on. I don't want the creases in the top and plastic windows.

 

[Geo Hahn]

Shrinkage? I guess they are a little tight on the first install after being off awhile but I think they stretch back to 'as before' once in place. Just pick a sunny day if you can.

 

[John_Mc]

When I fold my top down, a lot of the time I unzip the window first and let it hang down independent of the collapsed top thus not getting creased at all. I would tend to agree with Geo* in that I imagine a good warm day in the sun would loosen up the top nicely and eliminate creasing. Long term effects of folding though, I just don't know. I've had mine for 9 years and it spends almost its entire life folded, but when I put it up it still looks good. Others' experience may vary.

*It's hard not to agree with a guy whose two vehicles are a TR and a VW Westfalia!

 

[6TTR3A]

[color:#006600][/color]The GREEN hood for my 3A is 22 yrs. old & is holding up extremely well. I'll pass on tips given to me:
Like Robbins, et al say, Clean the windows with clear water and a soft rag. After you've done that, try a product sold by the Harley-Davidson guys called "Plexus Plastic Cleaner, Protectant & Polish" My rear window is as clear as the day I unpacked it from Robbins, and I blame it on "Plexus"! (Be sure to follow directions on the "Plexus" can.)
Clean your hood with whatever your favourite is, but wait 3-4 days before removing it for storage. Most vinyl protect products have chemicals that need to evaporate before sealing in a bag.
Ask whoever is in charge of bedding in your house to donate an old <span style="font-weight: bold">100% cotton sheet</span> Be sure it has been washed/dried WITHOUT fabric softener before using it.
Arrange the sheet so it is next to the windows (both sides) Fold the top from front to back so no folds are on the window surfaces. I put a fold in the two areas that separate the main from the quarter windows. Arrange your folds so you have one fat panel, rear window height and width. Now gently form a loose roll so there are no folds on the windows. There should be enough sheet leftover to form a cover for the entire hood. You might have to tear the sheet into 2 or 3 pieces to accomplish this.
Your hood and window are protected and you've got a built-in dust cover. If you can find a flat, warm place you don't even have to roll it.
[color:#006600][size:11pt][/size]