Convertible 280ZX... help!

[MariaAZ]

I just saw an awesome modified '79 280ZX. A previous owner had it professionally converted into a top-down driver. The Z is for sale, and although I am a purist, this conversion was very well done & the result looks like a cross between a Z & a Datsun Roadster.

The car has rust issues; rust in the doglegs & under the windshield. It's definitely a work in progress, and I'm seriously contemplating making an offer.

My main concern is reinforcement. The current owner doesn't know what, if any, mods to the frame rails might have been done to compensate for the removal of the top. The rear deck is mainly metal (a very clever use of part of the roof & hatch).

If I decide to purchase this ZX, what kind of structural reinforcement will I be looking at? It's my understanding that the vehicle has never been driven as a convertible, and the door alignment looks pretty good so I'm thinking there hasn't been any sagging (yet) of the body.

I totally understand that this forum is geared towards classic Zs, but there is so much knowledge here that I'm hoping someone can give me some information.

[EScanlon]

Maria:

If the car was tryly professionally converted, then they undoubtedly reinforced the bottom of the car. If they had failed to do that they would be liable should the car fail in that manner.

Take the car to a mechanic and a body shop. The mechanic will evaluate the vehicle for brakes, engine, tranny and suspension, and the body shop can ensure that the frame reinforcements underneath the car are adequate and still sound. That will ease your mind.

Good luck, and post some pictures.

Enrique Scanlon

[2ManyZs]

I would suggest some strenghtening in the rockers, floor pans, under floor frame rails, a cross brace in between the rear shock towers at the very least. Also, a roll bar wouldn't be a bad idea either, just in case and it could be used to further strenghten the chassis.

The ZX probably has a bit stronger uni-body than the 240's, so it does have one thing in its favor.