Ppi Results ('83 911sc), Opionions Please.

[NEW911SC2]

Hello all. Just received the PPI results on an ’83 911SC; w/ 89K original miles. Results look pretty good. The compression test was as follows:
1-175 4-185
2-180 5-183
3-185 6-185
I believe the minimum is 175; from what I remember.

What concerns me is that cylinders 1, 5, and 6 were “leaking” to the case. Now it was explained to me that they weren’t dripping, but that they were a little wet/damp; at those cylinders. Overall the compression numbers were good and that the car overall was good for the year and the mileage. Am I looking a rebuild any time soon? They told me that a rebuild would take care of the leaking, but that it would not be necessary right now. They just let me know for my own knowledge and to keep an eye on it. Other than that the car had a few minor things to address. This is a $13K-$15K car. What’s the opinions out there? Thanks all.

[K. Roman]

my comression was all at 190-200.

I paid 12,250 for a Targa, 80 911SC

[Bob's Flat-Six]

Did they check the head studs ? If not I would as it may be the cause of the leakage.

[anthony]

my comression was all at 190-200.

I'm curious. What should compression be? Is there a chart out there for various 911s?

My '81SC tested at approximately 175 psi in all cylinders and my mechanic said it was as good as the day it was new which I interpreted to mean perfect running condition. And it does run/drive perfectly, pulls very strong, and has no leaks.

[cstreit]

That's a varation of about 8-9% which doesn't seem that big of a deal. Did they do a leakdown? This test is much more meaningful. If they didn't they should have.

WHat does "Leaking to the case" mean? Does it mean compression leaking into the crankcase, or oil leaking at the cylinder base? I suspect the latter in which case they should have pulled the valve covers and looked for loose or broken head studs, obviously they didn't. I'd get a better PPI or pay them a little more to do it right.

[NEW911SC2]

Don't know about the valve covers. It wasn't a leaking oil profusely. It was more like a damp/wet area near the base of the cylider (Hopefully, I explained this correctly). Worse case scenario, if there is a broken or loose stud, what does that mean in terms of a "time frame" to engine teardown? Is it possible that this is a result of normal wear and tear? Also, I had this PPI done at CT Automotive, in the Bay area. As far as I know the owners and the shop are reputable in the Porsche community. I spoke to both owners and they seamed very knowledgeable and willing to answer any of my questions. He even told me that I should have no problem driving it from San Jose to L.A. (approx 5-6 hrs) I'm interested in making an offer on this car. What would you all suggest after this information. I'm thinking $13.5K-14.5K. Or should I pass? After the inspection, I was told that the car is in good condition. Thanks all.

[Rick Lee]

That sounds like a lot of money for a car with potentially expensive issues lurking beneath. It wouldn't take 15 min. to pull the lower valve covers off and check the head studs' torque. If some broken head studs tumble out when you remove a valve cover (very common), then I'd say you have some room to negotiate price, as a rebuild would be imminent. If you really like the car, pay for a valve adjustment, since that would cover the above and you'd have a car that was good to go for another year or so.

[ZCAT3]

CT Auto knows their stuff. If they tell you the car is sound I would trust them. The compresion numbers are very good. Unless my math is wrong, that is a variation of about 5% or less per cylinder. Almost all of these engines leak at some of the seals. Is that what is happening here?

[NEW911SC2]

Hello again all,
Yes I a new to the 911's. I'm not sure if the leak is at a seal or because of a stud. I will call today to verify if the valve covers were pulled or not. Thanks.

[Groesbeck Hurricane]

Exact same symptoms as my car, I had two broken studs and more that broke when trying to remove them. Please do ensure the valve covers were pulled and the studs checked.

[ZCAT3]

By the way, Smart Racing Products and Jerry Woods Enterprises are located right down the street from CT Automotive. So if you want a second opinion, you could always run it by there for them to take a look at this issue.

[NEW911SC2]

Unfortunately I do not live in the area but I will look further into this to see what's going on. Thanks all.

[NEW911SC2]

ZCAT3, I PM you'd.