What is the proper way to clean canvas top - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

oldsouth · #1 07-03-2003, 11:35 PM

I just purchased a 1952 Mercedes 220B Cabriolet with a canvas top. This is my first convertible and was wondering what is the best way to clean the top and keep it looking new. It was replaced about a year ago by the previous owner. Thanks.

rdanz · #2 07-04-2003, 11:11 AM

what color is the top

oldsouth · #3 07-04-2003, 12:21 PM

Beige

dmorrison · #4 07-04-2003, 01:04 PM

IIRC
Wash the top with water from a hose to remove lose material.
Use a mild soap and a soft brush to clean the top. Every year, Mercedes says, you apply a silicon spray material on the fabric to keep it water proof. The dealer can get the spray silicon. I'm not sure what the number is since I have not done it to my car yet. I should, I've had it 8 years and would say its past due.
I think this is all that I read when I was lookin this up.
It was in my SL owners manual I think.

Dave

PS a great looking car. I would love to own one. I talked to a 52 owner here in DFW and was suprised to find out that the frame in that year was made out of wood. He explained how he had to rebuild the frame in his restoration.

dmorrison · #5 07-04-2003, 01:17 PM

cleaning instructions from my SL manual

Dave

rdanz · #6 07-04-2003, 07:46 PM

I don't know what your top is made of but I have an antique Corvette that had a new White top put on it in 1974. I believe its vinyl. with vinyl stitching. Rot proof.

1. NEVER store the car with the top down.

2. Always cover top when not in use " I use an old sheet under car cover.

3. Your not gonna believe this but at least once a year I scrub the top with a stiff brush and "Comet" cleanser yes I said Comet
the top is 29 years old and look as good as the day it was installed. I have never used anything on plastic window just a damp cloth and its crystal clear.

PS
I love the car you just got if it runs as good as it looks you got a winner

oldsouth · #7 07-05-2003, 12:15 AM

Thanks for the replies. I printed them and will put in the glove compartment where I won't forget. I could see where Comet would work on a white top but I would be afraid to try it on a colored top.

Car cranks and runs fine. Need to do a brake job and probably change the lines as they are sticking plus a complete fluids change. Only been driven 42 miles in the last 6 years. Been sitting in a car dealers showroom.

dmorrison · #8 07-05-2003, 01:10 AM

DONOT USE ANY HARSH DETERGENT on your top.
Your top should be a Happich or Sonnenland material top. It is a fabric not a vinyl top thatis use in the US. My 63 Chevy Impala had the vinyl top and I did use comet on it at times to really clean it.
Would you use Comet to clean your suit pants? No. treat the top like a fine piece of fabric. Follow Mercedes instructions and You can buy Mercedes Products to maintain it. Or buy quality cleaners designed and approved by Mercedes, Happich or Sonnenland.
Here is a copy of a Euro sites care instructions

How to keep your convertible hood in top condition.

When you've Top Cabrio install your brand new hood we will offer you some advice to keep your hood in top condition. Good care for your hood will guarantee a perfect condition and a longer life.

Right after your new hood has been installed you should keep the roof closed for at least 24 hours. The new hood will be able to adapt to your car's shape.

At first the roof will open and close not as easy as you would like, this is normal. After some time the hood has adjust itself to the frame of your convertible and will open and close easily.
Don't forget to close the roof when you don't drive the car. It's better for the hood to keep it's closed position and you will not be surprised by a swimming pool in your car whenever it starts to rain.

When your hood has become wet the best thing to do is to drive with the roof closed for a short while before opening it. This allows the hood to dry. When you want to go for a open ride immediately you should dry the hood yourself.

Hard brushes can damage the hood, therefore it's not advisable to take your car to an automatic carwash. It is much better to use warm water and a soft cleaning soap. Use soft brushes to clean your hood. Take your time to make it really clean and tidy. Rinse the hood with enough water to remove all soap. Do not use a high pressure cleaner! After cleaning the hood thoroughly dry it and go for a little ride to show your shiny hood to everyone and allow it to dry.

NEVER USE SOLVENTS, DEGREASERS OR ABRASIVE AGENTS.

When your rear window is made of plastic you should take special care in cleaning it regularly. Prevent sand and dirt from scratching all plastic parts. Again use a soft detergent.
After many years the rear window can become scratched and more difficult to see trough. We sell the right polish to remove these scratches and give you a clear view.
Assure yourself when opening the roof that the window is stored away unfolded. A folded rear window can easily burst especially when it's cold outside.

When you've let Top Cabrio install a new fabric hood you should treat the hood with special Happich spray. This will create a water and dust resisting coating which results in a longer life. Above all it provides you a more beautiful hood with its original intense colour.
This spray prevents the top layer of your hood to get wet, so it will dry quicker. Besides this dirt won't stick to your hood.
Top Cabrio sells this Happich spray.

When you take care of the above advices you will enjoy your hood for a long time. The colour will keep its original shine and the hood will stay in perfect condition.

Keep in mind that every time you open and close the roof this will cause natural creases to your hood especially near the pivot points. Never open the hood when it is wet!!

Hood is of course a Top in England.

Go here for additional info

http://www.worlduph.com

Dave