PPI Leak Down and Compression Test Results, Need Advice

ICD · 07-23-2004, 08:41 AM

I'm looking at a '87 Carrera with 115K milers and the PPI came back with the following results:

Compression: 145 on five cylinders, 150 on the other.

Leakdown test was 5 - 8%.

Will need clutch in 10 - 15k miles.
Needs covering on front seats.
AC does not work.
Will need shocks.
Oil line leak (on the one to the thermostat)

Excellent original paint

My questions:

1. What is the acceptable range of compression/leak down numbers?

2. This car is priced at $17k. With all the work needed, what is an appropriate price?

David

Rot 911 · 07-23-2004, 08:44 AM

Too high. I can live with the leak down numbers. Compression is fine. But a new clutch, pressure plate, possibly fly wheel, throw out bearing. seats recovered and shocks are going to run you around $1500-$2000 in parts alone. Seats recovered = $500-$1000. Fix AC could be another $1000. Lots of nice Carreras out there to look at right now.

jrdavid68 · 07-23-2004, 08:59 AM

The "will need" items may be a good tool for negotiating the price down a bit - maybe $15.5k or $16k. However, I don't think that price is too far out of line even with the repairs. I bought my car with a clutch that might last another 10K or so - ended up lasting a little over 40K - you never know. I also wouldn't expect much luck finding an SC or Carrera with A/C that works well and as far as the shocks and leaks - it is a 17 year old car - things will wear out.

If everything else about this car is what you are looking for - go for it!

FenderGuy · 07-23-2004, 10:44 AM

Kind of curious to these results what would be the proper deductions for this car? I mean the clutch work will be $2k plus or minus and like someone said, they might more items to be fixed which will bring the price up. I guess if the seller isn’t willing to bargain with you its best to walk, who wants to pay $17k for a car that could become a $22k and up car, you could find a nice Carrera in that price range, even a cab

banjomike · banjomike's Garage

Over priced IMHO. Very nice Carreras can be had for around that price. Talk him down. If you do get it have your mechanic fix the leak when he has the engine out for the clutch work. Research here for the hot shock absorber setup before you replace the originals. Seats can be very expensive to fix (which is why mine look worse every week). Through the roof expensive if you want leather. With the AC it may just need a charge (with $$ freon12) or it may need new hoses$$$. If your paying to fix it anyway, I think there are setups available to run on the new refrigerants.

RC76 · 07-23-2004, 11:05 AM

You probably can find a better conditioned Carrera in your price range, but if you really want this one, I don't see a problem. The compression and leak down are good, the shocks are an easy fix; not too costly. I would however try to take about $1500 off the price for the clutch. Like JrDavid68 said, it might be awhile before it goes completely, but at least this way you know you are somewhat prepared for it.
Get the A/C checked specifically, it might only need a recharge. A compressor will cost more. The seats are a personal issue, if they are not falling a part you might be able to live with it for a while, or may be find some on ebay.
With the needed repairs, I would offer between $14K and $14.5K for it and move up from there.

FenderGuy · 07-23-2004, 11:30 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by RC76
With the needed repairs, I would offer between $14K and $14.5K for it and move up from there.

Sounds right

Shuie · 11:47 AM

Sounds like a pretty nice car. Original paint is a big plus. Compression and leakdown numbers sound good. Mileage isnt bad. 115k mile seats will always look a little rough. The AC usually sucks in these cars so no shock there. I don't know if I could give someone grief over a clutch that had 10-15k more miles of life on it.

I think it may be slightly overpriced, but its pretty close to being real attractive to someone who wants a G50 car. It's a buyers market right now. 2 years ago, a car matching that description would been a $18-20k car easily. If the car winks at you, then go for it. Offer $15k and work with the guy. It sounds like a good one.

If you get it, you must post pics here immediately

good luck.