Originally Posted by
maxcichon
Mike,
you know I respect your opinions and analyses more than anyone in the industry-that being said, when I wash the 'buggy, it usually needs a bit of a spritz for the top. While I, too, would be concerned with saturation of the fabric with even a mild detergent (I use Meguiar's Gold, exclusively), I've found that if the fabric is properly treated with 303, RaggTopp etc, there is virtually no penetration. Evidenced by doing exactly as you suggested: using an intense spray-looking for evidence of suds.
And if this is an original, OEM top-I'd certainly be concerned about knocking the glass out of the fabric! Especially in an automatic wash with-GASP-brushes! About once per year-when the 6 AM temps get to >90 degrees, I'll take it through a "no-touch" wash. Just to knock the bugs off. What can I say? I'm old. And lazy.
Just my 2 centavos, senor!
I too am a old fart, (I do like the lazy Part) and only use Meguiar's gold. If I do take it through a Car wash, I try to find a Brushless one too. (NWCC Meets) the pressure to have a clean car...But I have taken the Toy through the Brush one a few time and my top is very clean. It could be the Northwest rain though? I would not do it a lot, for I do love to keep my car clean. Friday nights is Wash night!