This is called 'oxidation' and I think it usually
occurs on pop tops that have lost the jell coat due to
prolonged sun damage. Buff out this 'dust' with some
softer grade rubbing compound. next, go over that and
seal it with a carnuba wax of your choice. I used a
rubbing coumpound and an electric buffer becouse i am
lazy. the electric buffer will buff right down to the
fiberglass if you are not careful(keep buffer set on
'low') I did it a year ago and my top still looks good
and this is in sunny Florida!

Phil Stanhope 84' Westy w/ Tiico

--- David Devere <devereda@MSN.COM> wrote:
> Goodmorning all,
>         My question is; how do I protect my pop top
> and luggage rack?  I get a white powderey substance
> on my hand when I rub it on the surface.  What
> should I do to change this?  My van lives everyday
> of it's life outside in the elements.  Also the
> luggage rack tie downs are quite rusted anyone had
> any expirence changing these out?
>
> Thanks -Dave
> 87 Syncro Westy 176,000

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