Soft top dilemma

[waltklatt]

I have a brand new german fabric to install onto my bare frame.  My question is:  Should I install the fabric now and then remove the entire frame from the car before sending it to the painters?  Or do I wait till the car gets back and install the top.  I need to lift one side of the top assembly with a shim as it's hitting the case cover when fully opened.  I have already fixed the big linear dent it left over the years.
Walter

[mdsalemi]

Walt--

Repeat after me: Do NOT install the frame or soft top until the car is painted!  It will just get in the way.

Michael Salemi
1969 280SL
Signal Red w/Black Leather
Restored

[waltklatt]

Thanks Michael, I will take the frame out so I can clean it, relube and tighten the joints.  Then after the car is painted I'll install it and put the fabric on it.  Great group here!
Walter

[TR]

Walter -- Is that brand new German fabric you mention of the original variety?  The reason I ask is that a couple of years ago I had new German fabric (supposedly of the highest quality) installed on my 280SL ... but it soaks thru quickly in rain.  I've used Scotch Guard as well as stronger canvas (e.g., tent) sealer, but they breakdown after a few washes.  Not good if one wishes to rely on one's soft top during heavy (cross-country) downpours (as one does).

A winter project I'll be looking into is pulling that reportedly high quality original material and having it replaced with modern soft top material.

Don't mean to be a downer here; just thought you might like to be aware.

BTW, that instrument trim piece you so kindly sent looks terrific...thanks!  Once I actually get the car back I'll send you a photo or two.

Tom in Boise
'71 280SL 4-spd, signal red w/lt. tan interior, restored/enhanced

[Cees Klumper]

For soft top care use Wolfstein´s RaggTop Cleaner and Protectant. On Bob Geco´s (our resident car finish care expert) advice I started using this product and water beads off the soft top like on a duck´s back. I use the cleaner and the protectant only once a year and the protection just stays on perfectly. I used to use tent waterproofing spray and it came nowhere near the effectiveness offered by Raggtop. I sound like a commercial and I intend to, this time!

http://www.wolfsteins.com/main.htm

Cees ("Case") Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic