What used to protect paint under Soft/Hard Tops

[Mariah]

I have Static Cling available but am thinking something more permanent would be better. Just wondered what you guys used under your Soft and Hard tops to protect the paint. Is the same material used on the doors under the side windows?

[RedBarchetta]

I've seen folks use foam rubber window/door insulation, the type you find at the hardware store in rolls. 1/4" is plenty thick and a 1/2" width is sufficient.

Or you could do what I do and.....don't use the top at all!

[RallySnake]

Mariah,

I tried the static cling clear plastic and it didn't help much. Now I just rub on a heavy layer of car wax, let it dry, then drop the top on. I polish off the wax around the outside of the top. This works pretty well and the scuff marks can mostly be polished out when the top is removed.

Paul

[rdorman]

The hardware stuff can be kind of course. There is a variety of door/hood/truck foam rubber available from a variety of sources that you can make work for the side curtains or even maybe a hardtop (no personal experience here). As for the soft top or even a tonnuea cover. Terry polishing cloth material sewn where the two make contact would be of help. You could even dye it the color of your top if you like. Felt is another option that would probably last longer but the polishing cloth material seems a more logical choice to me.

Rick