I am looking at a one owner, 91 Camaro, T-Tops, 5 Speed, L03, manual windows, R134a converstion, 124K miles, for $4000.
The owner has told me that there is rust issues underneath the T-Tops.
From those who have tackled this repair on their own car, should I Turn Around and Run Away from this car or take a chance at the right price?

 

If its just the t-top bar, I've read it's not too bad to replace. If they actually leaked there might be more rust than you want to deal with. Mine has a bit of rust on it but never leaked. It's the next repair I will do on mine. Hawks has a stainless steel one I plan on getting just don't like the $300 price tag.

 

If you search, there is a thread that goes through the repairs.

I personally have turned down a purchase in the past because there was doubt.

 

Hard to say, without knowing for sure. It can be hell in that area. Im pretty sure all the parts in that area are available if you do go down that road. A1 auto sells the stuff and works with guys here at the site. Believe he has nice videos too you can watch and get a idea of what your looking for. Think his name is tony. Also, If you can post pics of the car/area, we may be able to help you more. Good luck with the purchase!

-Dan

 

Keep in mind that if you replace the t-top bar you will also be forced to buy new t-top seals which are kind of pricey if you're on a budget.

 

I'd be worried about what's under the carpet if it's leaking.

 

Exacty. That 4K car may in fact be worth more like 1K if the floors are rusted out from leaking ttops.

Get the car up on a lift for inspection.

 

I'd run. T-Top leaks, floor rust and so on

 

Don't listen to these guys, T-top rust is not the end of the world; dependent on your skill level and willingness to fix. Normally with the tops its the bar or worn out weather stripping. Both are general and fairly simple, that being said repairing the weatherstripping channel from rot or rot under the structure of the bar. I just tackled what I'd define as a moderate repair with minimal rust, feel free to take a look at my thread of an 87' IROC restoration. If you need pointers, let me know.

 

My advice was a merely a word of caution before dumping 4K into a car.

One has to wonder how long it has been leaking and where all that water was going.

This pic as a result of leaking ttops.

 

Whoever is paying anyone 4 grand to fix t-top rust or a floor please send them to me, lol. It doesn't cost that much... it all boils down to how much you like the car. If anyone is one this forum buying basket cases to flip and make money, you about 30 years too early for that boat. These cars are increasing in value but aren't there quite yet. But if you are looking to hone your skills on rust repair and body work these are the cars to do it with. Tons of parts cars available, if you mess up its not a biggie unlike redoing a 57 Belair or something rare. Also, there's a certain sense of pride when you build something as opposed to "yeah I bought it like this".

 

Indeed.