Quote:
Originally Posted by M. Murphy
Welcome, I'm guessing it's an 83?
Do you intend to do most of your own maint?
When were the timing/balance shaft belts and water pump changed? This should be first priority if unknown or at 30k. Peace of mind.
Did the car come with the under engine cover? If it did, use it. The thing aids cooling.
If the fans are inop most likely cause is the thermo switch in the upper drivers side of the radiator ( just like VW).
Tires: cracks in sidewall, replace ASAP.
AC: leave it alone for now, make certain the compressor pulley is free.
Hatch struts: leave them alone. A section of 1/4 inch rubber hose slit and placed on the shaft against the strut body will likely hold in calm air. In wind it's a different matter. I've heard replacing the hatch struts with new will force the glass off the frame, disaster!
Lots of things to do, PM if any questions.
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Thank you all for your interest.
Yup, 1983, about 145k miles. PO said that in the year he owed it the OD stopped working. Since I've owned it, the OD started working...about 20 miles ago. Driven it about 200 miles, total.
My brother-in-law, who has a lift, and I will do all the maintenance that we can. Today we're going to lower the rear and address the fan issue. I have a new stat. Otherwise, will check the thermo switch.
Timing belt and water pump look fresh.
Clutch is the best I've ever felt.
By "under engine cover" do you mean under-hood insulation? If so, no.
Of course I'm keeping the Fuchs...They're all 16x7, though.
I bought it from a newly divorced guy how lost his garage and needed the money ($2,800). I had a PPI done at a reputable shop, who had at least one tech knowledgeable of 944s. In retrospect, I'm not 100% confident in the inspection. That being said, they said it was VERY well taken care of. However, they failed to notice/mention in the report the following: hint of blue smoke upon heavy acceleration...I noticed it while following the car, Overheating/fans inoperable, fog light out (though they did mention the side marker bulb being out). As far as the tires go, when I questioned them, they said they WOULD pass NJ inspection, and that they we superficial cracks. Either way, I'll be replacing them by next spring.
It's not ideal, but it's home.
