Car converted to a convertable

[enfable]

I am looking at buying a car that has been converted to a convertable. I am aware that the cars structure should be improved. Does anyone know what I need to look for and if there is anything else which should be considered.

[Panic Button]

Sounds difficult to insure, quite apart from safety considerations.

Why not buy a proper convertible?

[enfable]

The reason I don't want to buy a proper convertable is the initial cost.

The car is an e-type jag. I have been told it was converted professionally in the late 80's but as yet have seen no documentation.

[R1Geezer]

Do not touch with a bargepole mate. Extremely unlikely that the car has been strenghtened. Is there a weigh bridge near you? the "convertable" should be heavier than a standard car if it's been done properly. A pound to a pinch of sh1t it's just had the roof cut off. The whole thing will be "floppy" when drivern hard.virtually worthless I'm afraid.

[chas2008]

EDDIE51 is on the right track, E types have a full chassis where ALL the strength is , not the monoque designs of today where the strength is in the shell, the whole front end lifts to reveal the engine so it has to be 110% safe strength wise.
I would like to think if it had been converted in the 80s any issues would have arrisen by now. The only problems you may have is with the general wear & tear,water leaks etc. which would be expected of any convertable of this age.Plenty of specialist trimmers out there that specialise in soft tops if you do get any problems.
As long as it looks right in relation to the vehicle i would treat it as buying any classic vehicle.

[jake-the-peg]

Look at the angle of the windscreen.

The hard top E type has a taller,steeper windscreen compared to the convertible. This will give you an idea of how well it's been done. If you've a hard top windscreen it's likely to be a poor quality hack off.

Compare
http://www.dyna.co.za...eries_1_Red_ss011.jpg
to
http://www.knowledger...etype.1966.750pix.jpg

Also note panic button's point about insurance and the fact that it will be difficult to sell on.

You haven't said what series or age it is - the really early one were awful - to such an extent that you'll see people advertising them as "series one and a half" to distinguish them from the first ones.

The story goes that after so many complaints Lofty England told one customer "I'm sorry sir we just sold you the engine - we gave you the car to take it home in"

But most importantly if you're about to buy an E-type you need an engineer or garage that is experienced in working on them. Over time you will need things fixed and you don't want to be taking it down to "Bill's corner garage"

Check the owners club for people in your area and give them a call and talk to them