by harnishclan on Fri Jun 09, 2006 7:00 pm
Major things to pay close attention to:
Control arms-Steel ones(83-85.5) are prone to cracking but have replaceable ball joints. Aluminum(85.5-89 in two lengths) tend to have ball joint failure and do not lend themselves well to rebuilds.
Water Pump-By now, all of them should have the upgraded "turbo" water pump.
Timing/Balance Shaft belts-Engines before 87 require manual adjust and tension, 87 and later have auto tensioner, but should still be done.
Clutch-Original or very old replacement clutch will be rubber centered and it is only a matter of time before it breaks. Fairly labor intensive, therefore expensive repair.
Oil Cooler seals (or any place in the motor where oil meets water)- if they are worn, nice mocha milk shake in the radiator overflow.
Annoying minor things:
Shift lever bushing, cassette tape hinge, power steering rack leaks, strut mount bearing, cracked dashboard, exterior door handle adjustment, constant heat regardless of AC setting, rust under battery, water in rear wheel storage from worn rubber grommets.
Brian Harnish GP #815
Current: 08 Cayman S, 87 944 S, 87 944.
Past: 81 911SC, 83 944, 86 944, 82 924T, 97 993, 84 944, 87 944, 83 944, 04 Cayenne S, 81 924T, 01 Boxster S.