Softopper Flaw for Waterproofing

Hey all,

I just installed my Softopper last night on my Tacoma. It's awesome. However, there seems to be a waterproofing flaw that I've noticed with respect to the nylon straps that are used to hold the sides up. They are sewn into the canopy material itself. The little exposed nylon there is soaks up water and then transfers to the inside of the compartment.

Has anyone else noticed this? If so, what did you do about it? I was thinking of applying a waterproofing sealant to the exposed nylon? Thoughts?

 

Wonder if you can spray the entire cover with the Water proofing stuff people use on camping tents... I will be purchasing a soft topper in a couple months I hope.

 

Does it not say it needs to be waterproofed and/or sealed at the seams to be water resistant?

That's a seam.

Seal it.

 

Mine came with seam sealant and I applied it the first day. Did yours not? If so, just use that. Mine stays dry.

 

I never used the seam waterproofing and mine only leaks at the front corners where the front flap doesn't fully seal against the bed.

 

I'll apply the seam sealant. As stated though, it's the straps themselves that are soaked. I can't see any visible leakage around the seams. So I'll waterproof the outer portion of the straps and see if that resolves the issue. Have to wait till it drys up.

San Diego hasn't gotten rain like this in years...

 

The sealer that came with your soft top, is it a spray on sealer? I was thinking about getting a soft top for my bed rack. Might have the local canvas guys make one for me.

 

It is not a spray on. It has a brush applicator, but I plan on putting it in a small cup and using a paint brush to be more precise with it.

 

If you are really feeling ambitious, you could always wax the seams. A little linseed oil and some beeswax. Heat them both until they are melted together, swirl the mixture with a paint stick and then brush it on.