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Tiny cracks in top fabric - this is new

Old Dec 10, 2012 | 06:03 PM
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Default Tiny cracks in top fabric - this is new

Found them on both sides of my 05, right over one of the bows. The top is 6+ years old now (replaced once), so probably starting to age in spite of garage and careful maintenance.

The cracks don't go all the way through, so no leaking issues, but considering seam sealer.

Any suggestions?



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Old Dec 11, 2012 | 02:46 AM
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I've had many converts/roadsters.But not a Z.If were me,I'd just leave the
cracks be unless there was a leak.A "seam sealer" is prolly gonna look bad,
if you are talking about a silicone based product.It will have a sheen.
You mentioned youhave replaced you top.The key to all tops is the quality
of the fabric used.Also,the installation is a major part.A too tight top when
it come to a vinyl material may cause some cracks or separation.Besides,
you live in Florida where the sun is indeed a factor.Use of a top condition
does help.From experience,when selecting a top,a canvas material(best
being a Stayfast)will cost more.But will look better and last longer.
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Old Dec 11, 2012 | 07:56 AM
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If I leave them alone they probably will get bigger.

I'm wondering if there's some product that could just lock them down and keep them from growing ... Like those windshield repair kits that keep a small hole from spreading.
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Old Dec 11, 2012 | 09:59 AM
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Originally Posted by Blooster
If I leave them alone they probably will get bigger.

I'm wondering if there's some product that could just lock them down and keep them from growing ... Like those windshield repair kits that keep a small hole from spreading.
Looking at your pic,it appears thatthe cracks are on the surface.There is
a separation of the texture used for the top.Its possible to get a vinyl
repair kit and color match the top.Fill in the cracks and add texture to
blend in the repair.How many "cracks" are there?If you want a pro repair,
I'd suggest contacting a shop that specializes in vinyl repair.Most car
dealerships have mobile services that specialize in these repairs.A previous
vehicle had some holes on the side of the console that somebody used to mount a bracket.The dealership had the holes repaired,texture and all.
It was invisable.If you are plan on keeping your Z for awhile,I'd get the top replaced with a canvas based cloth.It will have a tighter fit if done correctly and make your roadster look more expensive.All high end cars...Aston,
Ferrari,Lambos all use a Stafast type material.
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Old Dec 11, 2012 | 04:55 PM
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Thanks, JCITY - that's very helpful.

There are only 3 cracks on each side - total of 6 tiny lines - so top replacement isn't really warranted yet. No doubt that will happen at some point, though, and Stafast sounds like a good future option.

I will look around for a vinyl repair shop in South Florida. That's a good suggestion since I'd really hate to make a bigger mess of it!
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Old Dec 23, 2012 | 12:46 PM
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The answer - available at Outdoor World:



Really good stuff.

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