Canopy Care

Keeping your Caddy Canopy in good condition adds to your enjoyment and helps to maintain its value. The simple way to achieve this is to clean it at regular intervals, those unsightly marks caused by the build up of traffic film and general grime. Wash the surface first with a recognised detergent sold for use on automotive paint. Should any marks remain, use a cleaner with chemicals and abrasive agents formulated for use on gelcoats.

Fading or discoloration of the gelcoat is a natural ageing process caused by ultraviolet light. To overcome this,
use a mild abrasive, which removes a thin layer of the discolorated surface. Since discoloration develops gradually it should not be necessary to carry out this procedure more than once every three years. Frequent use of abrasive material can reduce the thickness of the gelcoat, to a potentially harmful extent, depending on the severity of the discoloration.

Scratches can be removed from both gelcoat and painted surfaces. The method depends on the depth of the
scratch, as care needs to be taken to avoid penetrating the paint of the gelcoat. Very fine hairline scratches can
be removed by rubbing across the line of the scratch with rubbing compound. Slightly deeper scratches should
be lightly wet sanded using very fine (1500 grit or finer) abrasive paper. Rubbing compound will then remove the flatting marks created by the abrasive paper. For deep gouge-type scratches where there is any danger of paint
or gelcoat having been penetrated we recommend consulting a local bodyshop.

Protecting gelcoats and painted surfaces against dirt, oil and extreme climatic conditions not only enhances the appearance of your canopy but also prolongs its life and maintains its original condition. A non-polymer,
non-silicone wax polish is suitable for gelcoat surfaces, where a silicone based polish is more suitable for
painted surfaces. Both are easy to apply and cause no problem should any repair be required.

These will ensure the longevity of these parts and the continued enjoyment of your ute canopy.

• Locks should be treated with graphite powder every month.
• Hinges should have grease applied when required.
• DO NOT treat the gas struts; simply remove the dirt from the shaft with a soft cloth. This will protect the piston seals.
• The water drains should be cleaned regularly to ensure they are not blocked with foreign objects.

If you are fitting a canopy on top of an existing ute liner, you may experience leaking. This is because the texture of the liner does not allow the rubber to compress adequately to avoid leakage. If you are planning to install a ute liner after your canopy has been fitted, we advise you purchase an under rail ute liner (instead of an over rail ute liner) to minimise any leakage that may occur.

If you remove the canopy from your vehicle, store your canopy on a flat, level surface. DO NOT store on its side, roof or end as this may cause warping and cracking of the GRP. Avoid storing items on the roof.