Discussion
Right just had a new rear screen fitted but the hood and targa panels are looking a bit tired and could do with sprucing up. Not worth replacing them yet as they are not tatty but I wondered if anyone has any suggestions on cleaning them and suggestions on any potions that could be used to darken them up again.
I've been toying with the idea of replacing my complete hood for ages now. For relatively little cost I thought it was worth trying Renovo to see what difference that made before spending a lot on a new hood, especially as my roof does not get used that much. I am still amazed by the results!!
I finished the roof with Thomsons water seal.
Both the Renovo & Thomsons go on very easily.
I'll now be keeping the existing hood and having only the very tatty rear window replaced next week
I finished the roof with Thomsons water seal.
Both the Renovo & Thomsons go on very easily.
I'll now be keeping the existing hood and having only the very tatty rear window replaced next week
Another tip if you have a tatty roof and need to keep it but improve its looks...
the inside of your hood was probably a nice bright cream colour originally but if it is like mine was it has become mucky, scuffed and threadbare especially where it creases when down. I "painted" the inside with black bumper-trim and am pleased with the results... on close inspection of course its still a bit tatty and the threadbare patches are still there but they are no longer as visible and tidies it up nicely when up and when folded down.
Family motto = No expense spent, leave no corners uncut
K
the inside of your hood was probably a nice bright cream colour originally but if it is like mine was it has become mucky, scuffed and threadbare especially where it creases when down. I "painted" the inside with black bumper-trim and am pleased with the results... on close inspection of course its still a bit tatty and the threadbare patches are still there but they are no longer as visible and tidies it up nicely when up and when folded down.
Family motto = No expense spent, leave no corners uncut
K
I have tried boot polish a while ago and whilst it did darken the hood it was not the result I was after. Whilst I do not want a shiny hood, I did not want a totally flat one either and that was the result I got with the boot polish. Longers I'm sure you will not be disappointed with the replacement screen; the difference it makes is amazing. My old screen wasn't that bad, but I got it replaced as the stitching had to be done. I still can't get used to the clear view behind me now.
"lots of people recommend BOOT POLISH." - great for boots I hear.
After dyeing
, Thomsons waterseal is often recommended, but I always used Granger's Fabsil. Avoid the spay versions as it's a pain to keep it off the paintwork.
After dyeing
, Thomsons waterseal is often recommended, but I always used Granger's Fabsil. Avoid the spay versions as it's a pain to keep it off the paintwork. 
I have used Renovo to good effect. In fact, a previous owner used it to change the colour from brown to black and I have just used it again to remove the 'rubs' where the brown was showing through.
But, please, please, please let me know where I can get a new rear window let in to the hood. Mine is poor - it has a lot of pitting on it. Everyone keeps talking about having theirs done but I would love to know who can do it and a rough idea of cost. Midlands would be preferred.
Cheers
Tony
But, please, please, please let me know where I can get a new rear window let in to the hood. Mine is poor - it has a lot of pitting on it. Everyone keeps talking about having theirs done but I would love to know who can do it and a rough idea of cost. Midlands would be preferred.
Cheers
Tony
red tasman said:
Before replacing the rear screen, try using a metal polish on it. it will remove minor scratching and improve the clarity.
Or Renovo scratch remover, or I'm told toothpaste does a decent job !I believe one of the biggest problems with window replacement is that the hood has to be removed from the frame (hoop), getting it off and glued back on neatly and without damage can be difficult ?
I have tried Renovo window restorer, T cut and all sorts of other potions. The problem is that the plastic is pitted all over. If you can imagine that it has been bombarded with ball bearings - but I doubt that it has! The mohair is pretty good and would be a waste to change the complete hood if a rear window can be replaced at a lower cost. So,anyone who has had this done please let me know your experience.
Cheers
Tony
Cheers
Tony
I bought my S3 recently with the rear screen missing (cut flush with the hood opening) and was looking for a replacement from day 1. I googled around and sent off email enquiries. Those that bothered to reply ranged in price from £250 to £300 + VAT. In the end I decided to go with Dulfords since I needed a few other things looking at at the same time. I then found out they were using West Country Trimmers so it may have been cheaper to go direct to them. The gotcha came when they reported back that the hood material was fraying when they tensioned the new screen so they would recommend a new rear hood section. This increased the cost by £75 but the end result is fine - just that it could have been cheaper.
I would recommend looking for a local Auto Trim shop and go and discuss with them direct. They should then be able to spot any issues and give you the right advice and price up front.
GB
I would recommend looking for a local Auto Trim shop and go and discuss with them direct. They should then be able to spot any issues and give you the right advice and price up front.
GB
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