MINI2

fl0r15t · Mar 28th, 2006, 11:50 AM

OK, I've done around 1,400 miles now and it's time for the first proper clean, now I've gathered togther some cleaning materials and temps are above 5 degrees!

I've read lots of threads (using search) and I'm still not coming up with a definitive way to clean the fabric roof (the rear section of which gets filthy as soon as it rains).

So, the best details I've cobbled together so far, my plan is:

1) Vacuum first...
2) Squirt with water. From new just use water then and later 1/4 strenght shampoo. Apply using a "soft bristled brush" (have yet to find one of these)
3) Wrinse. Shammy off with a dabbing motion

Is this right? Unfortunately I have a hosepipe ban so I only have a 8L garden spray (pump) to play with.

Any other tips?

In regards to the bodywork, as it's still less than a month old when wil it needs it's first wax/polish (miles?/time?) rather than just a wash. It gets garaged every night if that makes any difference.

Many thanks in advance for any help/tips.

btw. The manual suggests:

Quote:

Care of the MINI Convertible's top The appearance and service life of the convertible top largely depend on the proper care and operation of the convertible top. You should therefore observe the following notes in particular:

Do not fold the convertible top when it is wet, dirty or frozen; otherwise water marks, moisture stains and chafing could result
Remove bird droppings immediately because they have corrosive properties

If the convertible top is very dirty, it is recommended that it be cleaned with a special convertible top cleaning agent. Your MINI Dealer will be glad to advise you.

Clean the convertible top as follows:

Spray the convertible top with an approved convertible top cleaning agent
Then scrub the convertible top with a wet sponge using circular motions
Afterward, finish cleaning the vehicle in a car wash or rinse the convertible top thoroughly with plenty of water.

After washing the convertible top three to five times, it should be treated with a waterproofing agent.

As to products when it does need protecting I have read about Aerospace 303/Autoglym Fabric and Renevo. Anyone know which is best!?

Jon Chalk · Mar 28th, 2006, 12:04 PM

I used to use:

on my MR2 soft top & it cleaned & protected OK (nice, dark finish which water beaded off), but I know a lot of people on the MR2 forums raved about the Renevo product(s)

Tinkerbell · Mar 28th, 2006, 12:06 PM

I've only ever used a soft brush on soft-topped cars, don't think I'd fancy using shampoo unless I had too

GR33NIE · Mar 28th, 2006, 12:11 PM

Don't think the hosepipe ban round our neck of the woods kicks off until the 1st April so try and get a clean in by then

I Always just use the normal Autoglym bodywash on the Convertible, seems to work ok probably not the best method though

minicabrio · Mar 28th, 2006, 12:26 PM

I have the AutoGlym Fabric roof cleaning kit.

The kit consists of a cleaner, sponge, and a waterproofing agent.

fl0r15t · Mar 28th, 2006, 01:09 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by GR33NIE

Don't think the hosepipe ban round our neck of the woods kicks off until the 1st April so try and get a clean in by then

I may get it in before Saturday but it depends when my Sheepskin Washmit arrives (off Ebay), as recommended by Rakey.

Quote: Originally Posted by GR33NIE

I Always just use the normal Autoglym bodywash on the Convertible, seems to work ok probably not the best method though

In normal concentration (i.e. as back of bottle for body work?). I got loads of AG ****e in my carepack!

Do you apply with sponge, mitt or brush? Then just rinse off as per bodywork?

Have you done the reprotection thing - it supposedly had the lifeshine treatment and some extra treatment for the hood. The top still looks mint TBH, it's just the back that is splattered in road crud.

fl0r15t · Mar 28th, 2006, 01:10 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by minicabrio-uk

I have the AutoGlym Fabric roof cleaning kit.

The kit consists of a cleaner, sponge, and a waterproofing agent.

Surely don't use that every wash though?

minicabrio · Mar 28th, 2006, 01:12 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by fl0r15t

Surely don't use that every wash though?

Of course not... maybe once every six weeks on average!

Mini Soph · Mar 28th, 2006, 01:13 PM

Not washed mine yet done 1,400

Well put water over the hood! LOL! Best get down the shops

fl0r15t · Mar 28th, 2006, 01:14 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by minicabrio-uk

Of course not... maybe once every six weeks on average!

So in the mean time for regular washes you use body shampoo? Just water?

minicabrio · Mar 28th, 2006, 01:16 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by fl0r15t

So in the mean time for regular washes you use body shampoo? Just water?

I tend to use normal bodywork shampoo on the back window, and wipe the rear hood section around the back window at the same time (the grubby bit). The rest I just rinse with water.

If its very dusty (ie Mid summer) i brush the bulk of the dust off with a clothes brush before washing.

fl0r15t · Mar 28th, 2006, 01:34 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by minicabrio-uk

I tend to use normal bodywork shampoo on the back window, and wipe the rear hood section around the back window at the same time (the grubby bit). The rest I just rinse with water.

Ta, can I ask where you get your AG hood stuff from, I tried two Halfords Superstores and no joy.

fl0r15t · Mar 28th, 2006, 01:35 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by Mini Soph

Not washed mine yet done 1,400

Well put water over the hood! LOL! Best get down the shops

Plus have we seen any pics of it yet?

We're waiting!

laura f · Mar 28th, 2006, 01:40 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by fl0r15t

Ta, can I ask where you get your AG hood stuff from, I tried two Halfords Superstores and no joy.

I managed to get mine from Halfords this weekend, it was at the bottom of a shelf tucked away tho

fl0r15t · Mar 28th, 2006, 01:54 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by villa mini

I managed to get mine from Halfords this weekend, it was at the bottom of a shelf tucked away tho

btw. Do you need to mask off the bodywork to apply?

laura f · Mar 28th, 2006, 01:58 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by fl0r15t

btw. Do you need to mask off the bodywork to apply?

mr villa did it and i don't remember him doing anything like that tbh

minicabrio · Mar 28th, 2006, 02:28 PM

My large Halfords stock it...plus there are hundreds of online car-product retailers who i would imagine sell it.

There's no need to mask of the bodywork, it comes in a spray bottle so is fairly accurate... a damp cloth is a good idea for wiping off any overspray that ends up on the rubber seals.

To be totally careful cut a piece of cardboard about a foot square to hold against the waistline trim to avoid overspray. Also tuck under the hood lip to avoid overspray onto windows.

fl0r15t · Mar 28th, 2006, 02:38 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by minicabrio-uk

My large Halfords stock it...plus there are hundreds of online car-product retailers who i would imagine sell it. <snip>

Thanks, that's great. I just ordered a 'kit' on Ebay for £17.65 inc P&P.

fl0r15t · Mar 29th, 2006, 09:21 AM

Wash mitt arrived... may get in before the hosepipe ban after all!

cristo · Mar 29th, 2006, 10:20 AM

I use Wolfstein's Raggtopp cleaner, followed by their fabric protector on my wife's fabric VW Cabrio top every couple years to maintain it.
The fabric protector is paraffin based, so you have to mask off to prevent overspray.

For routine cleaning, brush, or rinse and brush.

http://www.wolfsteins.com/products.htm#fabric

Mar 28th, 2006, 11:50 AM	#1
fl0r15t Press the magic button... Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Oxford, UK Local Time: 06:03 AM Posts: 365 Offline	Methods for Cleaning Convertible Hood OK, I've done around 1,400 miles now and it's time for the first proper clean, now I've gathered togther some cleaning materials and temps are above 5 degrees! I've read lots of threads (using search) and I'm still not coming up with a definitive way to clean the fabric roof (the rear section of which gets filthy as soon as it rains). So, the best details I've cobbled together so far, my plan is: 1) Vacuum first... 2) Squirt with water. From new just use water then and later 1/4 strenght shampoo. Apply using a "soft bristled brush" (have yet to find one of these) 3) Wrinse. Shammy off with a dabbing motion Is this right? Unfortunately I have a hosepipe ban so I only have a 8L garden spray (pump) to play with. Any other tips? In regards to the bodywork, as it's still less than a month old when wil it needs it's first wax/polish (miles?/time?) rather than just a wash. It gets garaged every night if that makes any difference. Many thanks in advance for any help/tips. btw. The manual suggests: Quote: Care of the MINI Convertible's top The appearance and service life of the convertible top largely depend on the proper care and operation of the convertible top. You should therefore observe the following notes in particular: Do not fold the convertible top when it is wet, dirty or frozen; otherwise water marks, moisture stains and chafing could result Remove bird droppings immediately because they have corrosive properties If the convertible top is very dirty, it is recommended that it be cleaned with a special convertible top cleaning agent. Your MINI Dealer will be glad to advise you. Clean the convertible top as follows: Spray the convertible top with an approved convertible top cleaning agent Then scrub the convertible top with a wet sponge using circular motions Afterward, finish cleaning the vehicle in a car wash or rinse the convertible top thoroughly with plenty of water. After washing the convertible top three to five times, it should be treated with a waterproofing agent. As to products when it does need protecting I have read about Aerospace 303/Autoglym Fabric and Renevo. Anyone know which is best!? Last edited by fl0r15t : Mar 28th, 2006 at 12:15 PM. Reason: More specific title

Mar 28th, 2006, 01:13 PM	#9 (permalink)
Mini Soph Fastest feet in the west Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Wiltshire/Hampshire Local Time: 05:03 AM Posts: 551 Offline	Not washed mine yet done 1,400 Well put water over the hood! LOL! Best get down the shops http://www.sophiefisher.co.uk

Mar 28th, 2006, 01:40 PM	#14 (permalink)
laura f lucky number 7? My Classifieds Join Date: May 2004 Location: Northern Mini Local Time: 06:03 AM Posts: 19,931 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by fl0r15t Ta, can I ask where you get your AG hood stuff from, I tried two Halfords Superstores and no joy. I managed to get mine from Halfords this weekend, it was at the bottom of a shelf tucked away tho \| My Gallery \| My Flickr \|

Mar 28th, 2006, 01:58 PM	#16 (permalink)
laura f lucky number 7? My Classifieds Join Date: May 2004 Location: Northern Mini Local Time: 06:03 AM Posts: 19,931 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by fl0r15t btw. Do you need to mask off the bodywork to apply? mr villa did it and i don't remember him doing anything like that tbh \| My Gallery \| My Flickr \|

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Mar 28th, 2006, 12:04 PM	#2 (permalink)
Jon Chalk Cooperama? Who's he? Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: Milton Keynes Local Time: 06:03 AM Posts: 698 Offline	I used to use: on my MR2 soft top & it cleaned & protected OK (nice, dark finish which water beaded off), but I know a lot of people on the MR2 forums raved about the Renevo product(s)

Mar 28th, 2006, 12:06 PM	#3 (permalink)
Tinkerbell MINI-no-more Join Date: May 2003 Location: Devon Local Time: 06:03 AM Posts: 1,454 Offline	I've only ever used a soft brush on soft-topped cars, don't think I'd fancy using shampoo unless I had too

Mar 28th, 2006, 12:11 PM	#4 (permalink)
GR33NIE Polo GT Owner! Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: Oxfordshire Local Time: 06:03 AM Posts: 3,802 Offline	Don't think the hosepipe ban round our neck of the woods kicks off until the 1st April so try and get a clean in by then I Always just use the normal Autoglym bodywash on the Convertible, seems to work ok probably not the best method though

Mar 28th, 2006, 12:26 PM	#5 (permalink)
minicabrio Clubman Convert Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Hampshire Local Time: 06:03 AM Posts: 15,294 Offline	I have the AutoGlym Fabric roof cleaning kit. The kit consists of a cleaner, sponge, and a waterproofing agent.

Mar 28th, 2006, 01:09 PM	#6 (permalink)
fl0r15t Press the magic button... Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Oxford, UK Local Time: 06:03 AM Posts: 365 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by GR33NIE Don't think the hosepipe ban round our neck of the woods kicks off until the 1st April so try and get a clean in by then I may get it in before Saturday but it depends when my Sheepskin Washmit arrives (off Ebay), as recommended by Rakey. Quote: Originally Posted by GR33NIE I Always just use the normal Autoglym bodywash on the Convertible, seems to work ok probably not the best method though In normal concentration (i.e. as back of bottle for body work?). I got loads of AG ****e in my carepack! Do you apply with sponge, mitt or brush? Then just rinse off as per bodywork? Have you done the reprotection thing - it supposedly had the lifeshine treatment and some extra treatment for the hood. The top still looks mint TBH, it's just the back that is splattered in road crud.

Mar 28th, 2006, 01:10 PM	#7 (permalink)
fl0r15t Press the magic button... Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Oxford, UK Local Time: 06:03 AM Posts: 365 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by minicabrio-uk I have the AutoGlym Fabric roof cleaning kit. The kit consists of a cleaner, sponge, and a waterproofing agent. Surely don't use that every wash though?

Mar 28th, 2006, 01:12 PM	#8 (permalink)
minicabrio Clubman Convert Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Hampshire Local Time: 06:03 AM Posts: 15,294 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by fl0r15t Surely don't use that every wash though? Of course not... maybe once every six weeks on average!

Mar 28th, 2006, 01:14 PM	#10 (permalink)
fl0r15t Press the magic button... Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Oxford, UK Local Time: 06:03 AM Posts: 365 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by minicabrio-uk Of course not... maybe once every six weeks on average! So in the mean time for regular washes you use body shampoo? Just water?

Mar 28th, 2006, 01:16 PM	#11 (permalink)
minicabrio Clubman Convert Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Hampshire Local Time: 06:03 AM Posts: 15,294 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by fl0r15t So in the mean time for regular washes you use body shampoo? Just water? I tend to use normal bodywork shampoo on the back window, and wipe the rear hood section around the back window at the same time (the grubby bit). The rest I just rinse with water. If its very dusty (ie Mid summer) i brush the bulk of the dust off with a clothes brush before washing.

Mar 28th, 2006, 01:34 PM	#12 (permalink)
fl0r15t Press the magic button... Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Oxford, UK Local Time: 06:03 AM Posts: 365 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by minicabrio-uk I tend to use normal bodywork shampoo on the back window, and wipe the rear hood section around the back window at the same time (the grubby bit). The rest I just rinse with water. Ta, can I ask where you get your AG hood stuff from, I tried two Halfords Superstores and no joy.

Mar 28th, 2006, 01:35 PM	#13 (permalink)
fl0r15t Press the magic button... Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Oxford, UK Local Time: 06:03 AM Posts: 365 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by Mini Soph Not washed mine yet done 1,400 Well put water over the hood! LOL! Best get down the shops Plus have we seen any pics of it yet? We're waiting!

Mar 28th, 2006, 01:54 PM	#15 (permalink)
fl0r15t Press the magic button... Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Oxford, UK Local Time: 06:03 AM Posts: 365 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by villa mini I managed to get mine from Halfords this weekend, it was at the bottom of a shelf tucked away tho btw. Do you need to mask off the bodywork to apply?

Mar 28th, 2006, 02:28 PM	#17 (permalink)
minicabrio Clubman Convert Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Hampshire Local Time: 06:03 AM Posts: 15,294 Offline	My large Halfords stock it...plus there are hundreds of online car-product retailers who i would imagine sell it. There's no need to mask of the bodywork, it comes in a spray bottle so is fairly accurate... a damp cloth is a good idea for wiping off any overspray that ends up on the rubber seals. To be totally careful cut a piece of cardboard about a foot square to hold against the waistline trim to avoid overspray. Also tuck under the hood lip to avoid overspray onto windows.

Mar 28th, 2006, 02:38 PM	#18 (permalink)
fl0r15t Press the magic button... Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Oxford, UK Local Time: 06:03 AM Posts: 365 Offline	Quote: Originally Posted by minicabrio-uk My large Halfords stock it...plus there are hundreds of online car-product retailers who i would imagine sell it. <snip> Thanks, that's great. I just ordered a 'kit' on Ebay for £17.65 inc P&P.

Mar 29th, 2006, 09:21 AM	#19 (permalink)
fl0r15t Press the magic button... Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Oxford, UK Local Time: 06:03 AM Posts: 365 Offline	Wash mitt arrived... may get in before the hosepipe ban after all!

Mar 29th, 2006, 10:20 AM	#20 (permalink)
cristo BLIKSEM (my brg/brg mc) Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: york, pennsylvania Local Time: 01:03 AM Posts: 2,202 Offline	I use Wolfstein's Raggtopp cleaner, followed by their fabric protector on my wife's fabric VW Cabrio top every couple years to maintain it. The fabric protector is paraffin based, so you have to mask off to prevent overspray. For routine cleaning, brush, or rinse and brush. http://www.wolfsteins.com/products.htm#fabric

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