Hi, everyone I am going to look at a convertible on Sunday(weather permitting). I wanted to know where is should I check for the weak spots on the frame? I want to make sure the frame doesn't have a hairline crack or a bent frame. Also where does most rust occur on the convertible? I know I have to check the wheel wells, floor pans, under the door edge and all around the top and body. Is there a specific spot to check? What about the t-top bodies? I would hate to get a third gen and find out the frame is bent or cracked

 

The downside is on these cars rust likes to hide. On the T-Top, it's generally in the T-bar that's in the middle and you have to remove it to see it, it also can be along where the t-tops sit. Also check the bottom of the front fenders near the door, and where the lower control arms from the rear end come to the body. I can't speak for convertibles.

 

Thanks for the info

 

In both my '91 and my '85 (both with T-Tops), I've found the most rust around the T-bar and oddly enough around the back window. Another place to check is around the center console, right under the T-bar. I've found amazing amounts of rust underneath that from bad T-Top seals.

 

On the convertible you will want to look in the lower corner of the door jam closest to the rear fender. If the car has been driven hard there will be a crack or hairline fracture in that location. There is a lot flex in this style car

 

on the vert , if the seals are bad the floor pans will take in a lot of water. Look under the car, behind the front seats,thats where my rust was. If you buy the vert, buy a set of sfc from spohn A.s.a.p.

 

Ya, I just got the convertible. 88 Iroc-z with a l98 and superram intake, and other mods. The car runs great! I will definitely put the sfc's and get them welded on? That is the preferred way correct?

 

Thats what everyone recommends. They do sell a bolt on but not sure how well they stay and how much stress the bolts can handle

 

A L98 vert? If it's a factory L98 car, it's an aftermarket convertible. If it's a factory vert, then someone put in a L98.

If it's got a T-5 behind that L98, then you might want to start looking for a new tranny now. Also, if you can, check the casting numbers on the engine to confirm it's a L98.