any issues with leaving top down for extended periods?

dirod123

Just picked up my first 2010 370Z roadster this spring and am wondering if I could leave the top in the down position for a extended period of time without hurting anything .
I only drive it when its not raining so I don't see the need to operate the top anymore than I need to in case it malfunctions like they seem to do.

Thanks

gbhrps

dirod123,

I use my Z the same way you do. Its just a toy and it never leaves the garage if there is a hint of rain.

The down side of long storage of the roof folded up is:

if mice take up residence, they will do it in the folds of the fabric. And when they are bored ... they will chew holes.... and when you next close the roof, you will have a series of small holes all in a row (happened to my 54 MG TF while in storage).

dust gets into that storage area and will settle at the contact points of fabric on fabric. It needs to be vacuumed or washed off periodically so it doesn't cause abrasion or discoloration of the fabric.

long periods of storage while folded causes the creases to really set in the fabric

the seals in the hydraulic system need to be lubricated to prevent they're drying out, cracking and leaking the hydraulic fluid. "Use it or lose it."

I make a habit of opening the top at least once every two weeks during the driving season, but during long winter storage, I leave the top up, and exercise it when the temperature gets above the 40 degree mark stated in the owner's manual when possible.

Just my two cents worth.

Gene

LennyK

I Too Have A 2010 Roadster I Picked Up About 4 Years Ago...
It Replaced An Antique Convertible With Roof Down For Over A Decade - NP

To Answer Your Question;

MY Garage Will Never Have Mice - Too Clean
Have You Seen How TIGHT The Top Storage Is On The Z
I Don't See Anything Getting In There...

I Cleaned & Waxed Inside The Storage Area
I Cleaned & Treated (303) The Canvas Top

I Put It Down (As It Should Be) 2 Years Ago
No Plans To Put It Up Again Any Time Soon

Winter In Carpeted Garage With Car Cover On Roof Down
Come Spring - Away I Go!

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BoilardZ

I agree with LennyK. I leave my top down almost all summer, and for much of the rest of the year, and haven't experienced any problems. If it makes you feel better, you can "exercise" it for a few minutes every week. That should shake out any dust and stretch out the creases. But my opinion is: I bought the roadster because I want to drive with no top. So, I seldom put up the top.
Steve

TJM370ZR

I would highly recommend leaving the top in the up/closed position whenever you are not actively driving with the top down. The weak point in the convertible top is actually the 5th bow straps, not the mechanical or hydraulic system (trust me, I am on my 2nd top and 3rd set of straps courtesy of the Nissan extended "warranty").

The good news is that higher quality straps exist and a knowledgeable upholstery shop should be able to install them for you relatively inexpensively should an issue occur.