Cleaning Suggestions for new Camper Top windows

[Jeff Quigley]

Just got a new camper top for the boat last fall. Somewhere, not sure where, I read or heard that Windex can actually cause the windows on the camper top turn yellow over time. Does anyone have any suggestions what to use to clean the vinyl windows with so they remain clear and don't turn yellow or foggy over time?<br /><br />Jeff

 

[Stratocaster]

Re: Cleaning Suggestions for new Camper Top windows

Use mild soap and clear water to wash. Any plastic polish/protectant (eg: Meguiar's or Klear-To-Sea) can be used to remove minor scratches. 303 Aerospace Protectant will preserve the vinyl from UV damage and keep the windows supple.<br /><br />Many recommend Pledge, but this will not protect the windows from UV clouding and yellowing.<br /><br />Use snap-on blocks or pipe insulation to keep windows off SS bimini supports. The SS will burn the vinyl and the burns cannot be removed.

 

[dajohnson53]

Re: Cleaning Suggestions for new Camper Top windows

Buy or make sleeves for the windows for when you roll them up to store them. Make them fairly tight fitting so that when you roll the window and slide it in the sleeve, there is a minimum of slop. This makes a HUGE difference in keeping the windows scratch free and in good shape. I made my sleeves from some simple nylon material I bought in the fabric store.<br /><br />Regardless of whether you use storage sleeves, clean dust off windows before rolling them up.

 

[walleyehed]

Re: Cleaning Suggestions for new Camper Top windows

Strato, I was going to say Pledge, but apparently that isn't a good thing...We've used it on my Dad's clear Vinyl on his rig, but have never noticed any yellowing...hummmm.<br />Where do you find the 303?

 

[Stratocaster]

Re: Cleaning Suggestions for new Camper Top windows

Kenny, you can find 303 at pretty much any marine store...I know WM sells it. Failing that, it's easy to find online. There's nothing better than 303 for your cockpit upholstery as well.<br /><br />Regarding Pledge, one of their claims to fame is that when you wipe it off, it leaves nothing behind. Well, with soft vinyl windows, you want to leave something behind! Something that protects after cleaning.

 

[walleyehed]

Re: Cleaning Suggestions for new Camper Top windows

Thanks for the info, Stratocaster...I'll look into some 303.

 

[mattttt25]

Re: Cleaning Suggestions for new Camper Top windows

i really like plexus. aresol can, spray on, lightly wipe off. done.<br /><br />second the water and mild soap. and that windex is bad. i've heard many use pledge, but have not had good results.

 

[lakelivin]

Re: Cleaning Suggestions for new Camper Top windows

The following info is from a Miata magazine regarding keeping the plastic rear windows in good shape. I bet they are very similar if not the same as camper plastic windows. <br /><br />"Keeping Your Miata Plastic Rear Window New - Left unattended, a plastic Miata rear window will become yellow, then cloudy brown, and finally will crack. Don't let this happen to you. Purchase a bottle of Meguiar's #10 or Novus #2 plastic polish, and a bottle of Meguiar's #17 or Novus #1 plastic cleaner. Apply the polish liberally to the rear window with a cotton ball. Rub it out. Then clean the window with cotton and the cleaner. Finally, polish with a clean terry towel. This process will remove scratches, and will restore plasticizers necessary to keep your window flexible and clear. A plastic rear window should remain clear and soft even after ten years if properly cared for."<br /><br />I don't know if the plastic cleaners mentioned above have UV protectors in them. If not, might be a good idea to augment the above procedure with something like the 303 Aerospace Protectant others have mentioned.<br /><br />(Note that I have no actual experience with this, but the Miata owners had years on their cars so hopefully the info is very good).