Leaky sunroof- replacement that does not leak?

[Mikes Z car]

Hi all,

My 240 has twin sunroofs installed by a PO that are side by side and though I haven't driven in the rain to determine this I can see signs such as applied RTV that indicates the sunroofs leak. I may delete them and put in a new roof panel where they are. Has anyone been able to put in a replacement sunroof to stop leaks? I wonder if it might be possible to have a piece of glass drilled for the existing hardware such that the new glass would be larger all around to extend out beyond the rubber to prevent leaks. I might not be able to open it then though. These leak because keeping rain out depends on a seal between the glass and the rubber but the seal is slightly indented by the glass so that rain goes down in this joint instead of flowing off of it if that makes sense. Any ideas appreciated.

Mike

[d240zx2]

Replace the roof. It is flimsy to begin with and with the sunroof removing any residual strength the roof may have, you're gonna have flexing and constant leakage. Use the search function and you'll find a bunch on roof replacements. Good luck!

[Arne]

Been there, done that, didn't even get the t-shirt.

http://www.classiczcars.com/forums/showthread.php?t=30409

[ZCurves]

I am with d240zx2. You should replace the roof. You can find a donor panel and have a bodyshop install.

I have always thought that an electric sunroof from a Saturn would work because it is convex like the ZCar and the metal frame when welded in properly would add the needed rigidity.

[Shade133]

i can say with a sunroof installed in mine (doesnt leak) but the roof is flimsy now because of it and im sure one day its going to crack that glass.

[Rich1]

Mike..

My sunroof always leaked--and that led to water soaking the interior...getting under the tarmat--rust,rust, rust. I'm not sure that an old sunroof can be kept from leaking--as a sunroof makes the roof considerably less rigid.

My roof panel was replaced this summer (thanks to Arne for the inspiration). I will post some before and after shots of the car later this week.

[Mikes Z car]

Thanks for the information. I am aware of a donor roof in the area.