Dyeing convertible top

[johnm]

Appreciate advice on what works best to clean the convertible top on my 1970 280SL. Also has anyone had any luck dyeing their top? I was told if the top has been treated Dye won't absorb into the fabric. What is the best way to tell if this is the case or is it assumed that all tops are treated? Thanks... John

[66andBlue]

The OEM fabric is "Sonnenland Classic" made by the Haartz Company: http://www.haartz.com/products/sonnenland-classic
The outer layer is a solution-dyed fabric made from acryclic and polyester. You should contact the company and ask whether it can be successfully re-dyed.
The company also has good suggestions for cleaning:
http://www.haartz.com/cleaning-guide/cloth-top-cleaning

[mbzse]

.../... clean the convertible top on my 1970 280SL.../...

First question is, is the soft top on your SL original to the car? If so, it is "Sonnenland"; see Alfred´s reply.
Two ways to tell for sure are heat embossed manufacturers sign on right lower corner of vinyl rear window, as well as dobbie pattern (and tan colour only) on inside of top fabric.
Also, that there is a metal bar sewn in just below the rear vinyl window See this thread https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=22831.msg163328#msg163328

[johnm]

Yes just checked and it has that exact embossed marking on the bottom right corner (Wopavin etc.) The outside of the topi is black but the inside is Tan. So you believe OEM then?  Tks... J

[mbzse]

.../... So you believe OEM then?  Tks... J

Certainly seems so, yes. Outstanding quality and you should strive keep it on your SL as long as possible, IMHO 
Hope you get a positive reply regarding the re-dye

[Shvegel]

Most "Dye's" are simply paint which means it will just stiffen up the top material.

[thelews]

RIT dye works well, the liquid you mix with water.  Not sure if it would bleed through to the liner.  Shouldn't if the top is any good.  I've had good luck with RIT for freshening up OEM carpet.  Much more control than the paint type dyes.

And, RaggTopp is good stuff for cleaning and protecting.

[Iconic]

.....  Not sure if it would bleed through to the liner.  Shouldn't if the top is any good. .....

John brings up an excellent point.
I say this because the top is made up of 3 layers. The one in the middle is the "waterproof" layer. It is very possible that this layer is not 100% waterproof anymore on a car that is as old as these.
For example, when I wash my car, the inside dobbie weave material gets wet in a few places. It can only be from seeping through the top. I would think if the dye is thin enough, it might seep through too.

[thelews]

Black liners look good too 

[johnm]

Wow thanks for all of the great advise folks. Very helpful. As it turns our after a few hours with water and a lite brush I was able to bring the top back to like new condition. A couple of very. Small flaws were masked with none other than my friend the Sharpie. (The top is black) The beige inside will require another go as there are a couple of grease stains in the lower back corners. In the end elbow grease trumps dye at least for now. Thanks again for the comments which will go in my file.   John

[66andBlue]

For the beige headliner you can try this product, but be careful, don't rub to hard:

[johnm]

Perfect I'll give that a try. Much appreciated!