Convertible top "brightening"

[Capt. Obvious]

My girlfriend just bought a 2000 BMW M Roadster. The convertible top is in great condition still (no leaks, tears, worn places, etc.). However, it seems to have a slight bit of fading and is more of a dark grey than black now.

We gave it a solid cleaning using some convertible top cleaner, but I'm wondering if there are any dyes available for canvas tops or maybe some type of canvas "dressing" (like a tire-shine type spray) that can be used to bring it back to a true black?

Any ideas or suggestions?

[Twista616]

My girlfriend just bought a 2000 BMW M Roadster. The convertible top is in great condition still (no leaks, tears, worn places, etc.). However, it seems to have a slight bit of fading and is more of a dark grey than black now.

We gave it a solid cleaning using some convertible top cleaner, but I'm wondering if there are any dyes available for canvas tops or maybe some type of canvas "dressing" (like a tire-shine type spray) that can be used to bring it back to a true black?

Any ideas or suggestions?

Very common problem...there arent many dressings out there that will bring back the color...its kind of like faded trim or those bumpers that fade easy on jeeps...but a dressing is just a temporary solution.

Get it redyed...fairly inexpensive...should work wonders for you!

[Capt. Obvious]

What type of dye should one use? Do they make a canvas-specific dye, or would RIT dye work?

[Twista616]

http://www.autogeek.net/convertible-top-dye.html

I would use a dye that is specifically made for convertiable. It al depends on which type of fabric is used...vinyl or fabric.

With a dye, remember, you have to do the WHOLE top, not just a portion of it(common sense but some people dont know)

That Forever Black should do the trick for you though! I'm pretty sure the dye I gave you above is for vinyl tops though.

If you have a fabric top, they make dyes for those too...ill have to dig around to see if I can find something for you!

Hope that helps!

[Grouse]

Have you tried cleaning it properly with a upholstery fabric detergent?

do a search for touch up 123 and you will see a brief walk through of how to properly clean a rag top.