Car Repair World

  Convertible Top A convertible automobile is a type of car which has a retracting, folding, soft or collapsible top. If the top is made out of metal, its called as a retractable/removable hardtop and not a convertible. A convertible top is made from a flexible material, such as vinyl or canvas, and is designed to fit over an articulated folding frame which is made out of steel, aluminum or rigid plastic. An electrical retraction mechanism can be designed to fold and unfold the frame which is also known as a power top.  Before a manual top can be lowered it must be un-fastened from the windshield frame before its retracted. A convertible automobile in Europe is known as "cabriolet" and a retractable hardtop is known as a "coupe convertible" or "coupe cabriolet". Convertibles are desired by many because of the look and the adventurous feeling it gives the passengers while driving. Presidents and celebrities are featured riding in convertibles for the added ...

Convertible Top Working Procedure of car's convertible top. The automatic convertible top system involves electric motors, switches and sensors, while the latching and unlatching is performed automatically. Best Practices Observe the top while in operation if any irregular motion or snagging occurs its an indication of a malfunction. Basic Maintenance Its recommended that a convertible be hand washed, special vinyl cleaners are available for cleaning vinyl tops. Wax should never be applied to a convertible top, soft tops should be protected using scotch guard and can be softened using a liquid fabric softener. Do not use an abrasive cleaner or cloth on plastic windows, they can scratch the plastic surface. Avoid retracting the top when wet to avoid mold which can lead to discoloration. The top should always be free of objects, even a small item such as a beach towel can damage the top structure. This article explains how an automotive convertible top works. A convert...