leaks and smokes

[bcr4d]

Took a look at a 84 targa today and noticed oil leaking from around the heads to the point it was dripping on the muffler and it smoked alot. I'm pretty sure the leak was around the head because I saw oil accumulating on the bolts before they fell on the muffler. Could this be an expensive fix or something minor? thanks in advance

[eddiehotrod]

Heads of valve covers? If it's valve covers then the fix could be as simple as new gaskets and upgrade to Turbo covers tightened to the correct torque. Probably worth getting an inspection done if you're not sure.

[bcr4d]

Now that I think about it, it was coming from around the valve cover. What type of money are we looking at to fix this problem?

[ben parrish]

Welcome to the board. This is a very easy fix. Maybe $40.00 in parts and an hour or so under the car. If someone would not spend the money and time fixing such an easy problem you have to wonder what else has been neglected. You really need to get the car evaluated by an experienced Porsche mechanic. Spend the money on a good PPI to help you decide on a car.
Good luck,
Ben

[bcr4d]

Thanks, that makes very good sense.

[ckissick]

This so-called $40 fix cost me more than $4000. I had leakage in the same place, even though I had the upgraded 1984 turbo valve covers. So I did compresion and leak-down checks. The compression ranged from 85 to 120, and the leak-down was up to 70%. The leakage was from the heads in general, as everything was old, worn, and loose. The engine was tired, in other words. Hence the $4000 plus for a new engine.

Have the car checked by a pro before you buy.