Rag Top Maintenance

Let me start by saying that I’ve never been a huge fan of convertibles, because I’ve never wanted to deal with convertible top repair.

But that’s not all really… Where I’m from, it’s hot and humid in the summer AND it’s hot and humid in the winter. Who wants to NOT used air conditioning in situations like that? Plus, chances of getting your rag top converted into an actual rag just to steal some coins from the center console are VERY high. The tropical sun will burn through the canvas, cloth or vinyl, like if there was a giant magnifying glass focused solely on your car. So needless to say, I like convertibles… But the hard top folding roof kind – not the rag tops.

Convertible tops are fun... Until they have to be repaired.

However, there are plenty of people that love soft tops. They claim convertible cars look better with them. They say soft tops are more lightweight and more simple to operate. I’ll give them the weight and simplicity bit, but whether or not they really look better is all in the eye of the beer holder.

Soft top lovers inevitably have to deal with with a convertible top repair.

It might be a little stitching coming undone. It might be a tiny tear or a small crack in the vinyl window… Or maybe some low-life cut into it.

It might be a little stitching coming undone. It might be a tiny tear or a small crack in the vinyl window… Or maybe some low-life cut into it. Either way… The key is to balance the costs and find out if it’s better to repair or replace.

In most cases, repairs will cost less of course. But always keep in mind how long the repair is going to last. If the damage is so much that you need to replace the entire top… Preventive maintenance goes a long way. Soft convertible tops deteriorate over time no matter what, but taking precautions to extend the life of your rag top is a great way to save some money.

Keeping your car in a garage helps a lot. Unfortunately, that’s not an option for everyone.

    If you have any Questions give Bay Diagnostic a call @ 718-615-0705 or visit us online @  baydiagnostic.com