I'm new here and really did not know where to post this...if this is the wrong place sorry Mods. I am planning to buy a 91 or 92 RS or Z28. I have laways wanted one of these cars from my youth and never had the money until now. I have done alot of research and this board has been helpful (I've bought cars before on pure impulse and regretted it.
I found a Z28 with a built 355 TPI with t-tops. My question is this a safe combination. I know the factory never made the 5.7 Z28 with t-tops due to structural issues. If I go check it out what should I look for? My concern is a twisted frame/body and i am not sure how to check this

Thanks for your help

 

There are plenty 5.7's out there in t-top and convertible. When they start to make serious power, sub frame connectors are necessary. That should be one thing to look for. Check for body panel fitup( i.e.,the gaps between the doors, fenders, etc...) This would be a good start for a quick visual for damage

 

thank you for the reply. I know i shoulld check for structural cracks around the t-tops, do you know if these are visible on the outside or inside of the vehicle? Are they hairline cracks that I should see?

 

The T top cracks are visible from the outside. Look at the corner of the roof, where it meets the door window. Another thing to check is around the steering box. We have had a couple of Fbodys that had cracks in the subframe and the frame would "pop" as you turned the wheel. Later Fbodies had a brace installed at the bottom of the subframe to help prevent this. I have a strut tower brace, lower "wonderbar" and subfame connectors on mine and the T top cracks have not gotten any bigger.

 

later fbodys having that brace do you think my 91 would have this>? i hear a pop/ creek noise when i turn hard

 

I have them on my 88, so I would have to believe that they are on the 91. They are not very big. A wonderbar would be far superior. I would take the car to a reputable front end shop, there are several things that can cause the noise you describe. The wonderbar wont fix any of them. Could be ball joints, tierods, etc. If it is the subframe cracking, then it has to be welded.

 

This "bar" that you guys are talking about, is it the strait bar right infront of the swaybar and making it really difficult to put the fans in? My 87 doesnt have one but my 89 does. Thanks.

 

Yes, it is a straight bar that attaches at the sway bar bushing frame mounts.
The fan issue seems to vary be manufacturer. Mine just bolted right in, no interference. I purchased it from TopDownSolutions.