Costly repairs .... guidance needed!

[Targa4now]

Just found out from my wrench that I've got some big ticket repair items.

First of all, my alternator is occasionally spitting out 20V to my electrical system. You can imagine the downstream havoc that's caused. Is there a local Connecticut repair shop that can rebuild for a fair price ($100 or so)??

Secondly poor engine performance led to a problematic WUR which I was already aware of... there goes $600 down the tubes including parts and installation. This is already done by the way.

Lastly, the poor engine performance (backfire galore) blew the #4 intake runner sleeve which turned the flat 6 into an unreliable dog. That's right, a Ford Expedition put me to shame at a light the other day! Is it worth the time and effort for me to save the $ by replacing the intake runner sleeves all the way around by myself?? I thought I recalled reading a thread where this was accomplished without a full or partial drop.

Am I kidding myself here or should I drop the cash and be done with it???

I love this ride but it's a money pit!

Advice please.

[sailchef]

If it makes ya feel any better......... I was passing an old lady in an old Buick........ I nailed it at the broken white line on a two lane back road.......screamed up to her front bumper and, POW. Slowed to a crawl, had to pull back in behind her and pull over. Classic. Turns out my rotor shred the inside of the distributor cap, when i pulled it off nothing but powder inside. I now have a new distributor and she ran fine up until the last crisis which I'm working on now.

I have always had the philosophy that it is cheaper to buy the tools and parts and fix it myself. At the least i have a tool box full of new tools that I will probably need again.

Older Porsche will test your patience and your wallet.

good luck

[Zeke]

My advice is to leave some technical issues to technicians. Replacing boots is just "wrenching." Of course, you have to like doing repairs and learning about your car. When I say learning, I mean all the things you will discover that need some attention.

[Targa4now]

I agree with the need for technical expertise Milt. As far as the runner sleeves go, can this be done (with Patience of course) in such tight quarters without dropping the motor or am I kidding myself???

[john walker's workshop]

best to drop the engine. 80-83 w/lambda accessories are a pain in the butt to remove the intake system with the engine in the car, not so tough up to 79.

[Dixie]

Let's back up and start with a few questions to flesh out the basics:

• Do you have another car to drive while the SC is down?
• Do you have a garage to do the work in?
• Do you have an adequate set of tool?
• Have you worked on cars in the past?

[Targa4now]

Originally Posted by Capt. Carrera

Let's back up and start with a few questions to flesh out the basics:

• Do you have another car to drive while the SC is down?
• Do you have a garage to do the work in?
• Do you have an adequate set of tool?
• Have you worked on cars in the past?

Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes if you include valve job + other tune-up activities

Depending on how long this will take, I may not have the time.
I've got the $ to pay a wrench unless you ask my wife!

What are your thoughts from there.

[hcoles]

you have your answer - DIY

[SC-targa]

Originally Posted by Targa4now

Yes if you include valve job + other tune-up activities

In my book, I do not include a valve job with tune up activities, unless you really meant valve adjustment, which is simple.

Regards,

Jerry Kroeger

[deanp]

Depending on where you are in CT, try Woodstock Rebuilding for the alternator rebuild - 860 974 2152 in Woodstock, CT.

Nice guy and very knowledgable.

I also have a spare alternator on a shelf at home, can check the part # and if it's the right one will give you a good price.

[mb911]

Try and DIY as these can all be done cheaply if done by yourself. the sleeves are very inexpensive so I would do them all at once. If you think about it all the prices are in line with new car repairs so don't get to disappointed as you are car is 25 years old+