PPI check list...

[Targa4now]

Hello,
Great forum everyone! I am looking forward to purchasing an 80's Targa and am trying to locate a PPI checklist. I found a pelican parts checklist using the following link:

http://www.pelicanparts.com/911/technical_specs/911_checklist.txt

Is this a comprehensive PPI checklist? If not, can I find one without the need to purchase a book?

Thanks for your help!
Jeff

[Paul K]

Jeff,
looks pretty comprehensive to me. There are additional ways to make your purchase 'safer'- asking the right questions and doing a ton of research before hand will help. For example, I notice you say "80's Targa". There are differences between an '80 and an '89- different things that need to be checked for, etc. Use this board to ask as many questions as you can think of before you buy- there are some incredibly knowledgeable folks here, they can save you time and money. Also, please add your location to your profile...

Good luck,

Paul.

[scottb]

The Pre-Purchase Inspection, by Peter Zimmerman

[SLO-BOB]

Great list. The body shop advice is excellent. The body is an area that is often glossed over in a ppi while the mechanicals are focused on. After seeing this list I will take any future prospect to a good bodyshop and get their opinion too.

[scottb]

I recently drove a 964 on behalf of a Pelican in Canada who was looking to purchase the car from a guy near me. It was a very nice, clean car that drove great. When the PPI was done, however, the folks at TRE said that the inevitable 964 oil leak was a show-stopper.

The moral to the story? GET A PPI. Don't let your emotions cause you to buy a car that you'll later regret.

[Targa4now]

Thanks Paul,
I found an 81 SC targa with 74K miles on it. I have also talked to a mechanic who has performed work on the vehicle and has agreed to perform the PPI which includes a pressure/leak-down test for $240 (I think he is trustworthy). If the pressure/leak-down test looks good, how confident can I be that the head studs are O.K....75%???

He has already informed that the following items need attention:
1) Master cylinder needs replacement (~$200 and I think I can replace it)
2) Needs tires/alignment ($500 + alignment cost)
3) Leaking oil tank OR sender gasket etc. (
4) Hood shocks ($50)
5) Engine compartment insulation needs replacement ($60)
6) Almost forgot...still needs a tensioner upgrade ($600)
7) Front fender paint repair (see pic)

Interior is in solid condition...


Paint needs some attention as displayed on the right front fender...
,

Positive points:
smooth transmission, brake & clutch job, new CIS air-box (+ pop-off valve), refurbished targa top.

13.5K for the car...good deal or not???


Jeff

[scottb]

Good rule of thumb:

NEVER have the PPI done by the mechanic who has been working on the car. Do you think he'll tell you if he made a mistake? It's always better to get a "fresh pair of eyes" to do the PPI.

My $.02.

[Paul K]

Jeff,
I completely agree with what Scott said above about the PPI. As for this being a good deal, I am inclined to say no, but I am sure others with way more knowledge than I will chime in...

Where are you? Someone might know of a good car in your price range and area.

Good luck,

Paul.

[daltvater]

As a comparison I paid 15.5 for this...and the car was close to perfect. I'd keep looking if I were you.

FS 1987 Carrera Targa

[daltvater]

Oh and I just had a buddy pay 14k for a car very similar to the one you're looking at, except it was an 88.

Good luck with whatever you decide!