How do I remove tree sap from a convertible rag top?

[Mike777G]

I have a client with a 05 corvette it has some tree sap on the convertible top. How do I get it off without damaging the fabric? (it`s really stuck on there)

[David Fermani]

Try chipping/prying it away very carefully. Maybe even using a fresh razor blade. Then try a super diluted version of Optimum Power Clean sprayed directly onto a towel. Rub very gently and make long sweeping strokes instead of intense scrubbing ones. Work smart and check your progress constantly being least evasive as possible.

[audicoupej]

SLX Denatured alcohol works great for me. I used it on a Mini Cooper with a green colored fabric top covered in sap. I poured it on the spots, let it sit and rubbed it off with a rag. A plastic razor helps remove the heavy build up then you have to work on removing it from the valleys in the fabric.

[David Fermani]

That`s good to know about the Denatured Alcohol John. Especially with the plastic razor blade.

[Ben@3D]

Tree sap is soluble to isopropyl(rubbing) alcohol as well.



I have read on other forums that they use q-tips. You can start at the edge, and use a rolling motion to sweep in from the edge of the pitch toward the center, rolling the q-tip in the opposite direction of the motion. Several q-tips per drop of sap.



Never tried this myself though.

[sparklingdetail]

Use glycerin, paint thinner or purple power to get rid of tree sap and it doesn`t damage the fabric as well.

[audicoupej]

That`s good to know about the Denatured Alcohol John. Especially with the plastic razor blade.



In that case the sap was old and hard. It had severely etched the paint. I tried many things commonly recommended for sap but I think most of them work better on fresh sap, not old, hard sap.

[David Fermani]

I wonder what itwould take to actually damage a fabric top? What kind of solvent of cleaner?

[Mike777G]

I wonder what itwould take to actually damage a fabric top? What kind of solvent of cleaner?



How tough are they when it comes to chemicals I have little knowledge around them.