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As the weather in S.W. Florida can change rather rapidly, I sometimes lower my top and do not cover with the tonneau unless I am fairly certain I will be out without needing the top back up soon. How many other 'Vert' owners drive without the tonneau? I know the inner lining flaps in the wind a good bit, and this is not good for long term wear, but other problems?
If the top is down, the tonneau cover is installed - that is the rule in our household. It reduces wear-and-tear on the top components and also keeps the top fabric cleaner....
I do not normally put the tonneau cover on as I prefer to drive with the top down but almost always put it back up when parking while shopping. I did wedge a length of 2" (51mm) diameter pool noodle down into the lining to keep it from fluttering in the wind. Works great, not normally noticeable, and no damage if you attempt to put the top up without remembering to see if the tonneau cover is on or not (ask me how I know...). I pulled it up just a little for the attached photo. The noodle automatically drops into the back seat when the top starts moving. Note: Not my tip, but I can't find the original submitter to give credit to.
I do not normally put the tonneau cover on as I prefer to drive with the top down but almost always put it back up when parking while shopping. I did wedge a length of 2" (51mm) diameter pool noodle down into the lining to keep it from fluttering in the wind. Works great, not normally noticeable, and no damage if you attempt to put the top up without remembering to see if the tonneau cover is on or not (ask me how I know...). I pulled it up just a little for the attached photo. The noodle automatically drops into the back seat when the top starts moving. Note: Not my tip, but I can't find the original submitter to give credit to.
I almost never use mine unless trying to look extra fancy or taking a long drive at freeway speeds with the top down. As someone said. I usually put top up each time I park (btw, I love my JagWranger remote control top module). So it would be a lot of fussing about to use the boot cover. In fact, I keep it in my garage instead of the car most if the time. I just vacuum my headliner fairly often and don’t worry about it.
I don't have an xk8 convertible, however I have an xjs convertible and no, I have never actually put the tonneau cover on. I too pretty much always put the top and windows up when I get to where I'm going. Just much easier not to bother with it.
I think I was the one that posted the comment about using a pool noodle on the flopping of the liner with the top down---maybe not---but regardless, I've been using one with my car for a few years now and it still works like a champ,
Has always been a great idea,
Chuck.
To 'Tonneau' or not to 'Tonneau'
