Value of 77 911s & what to look for?

pizza914 · 03-22-2009, 06:46 AM

Hey I have come across a 77 911s. I'm a 914 guy & know where to look for rust on those. What are the trouble spots on 911 rust wise? Here are the basics on the car. Engine runs great but clutch needs replaced. Same owners since 83 & stored inside. On small ding on passenger rear quarter. Seats need recovered but interior is in great shape besides. No cracks in the dash or anything. I'm planning to check it out this afternoon. I can get it for close to 6k? Is this a good deal assuming it really is as solid as advertised. Thanks in advance for the input

pizza914 · 03-22-2009, 06:56 AM

cubby911T · cubby911T's Garage

Sounds like a pretty good deal to me assuming, like you said, that it is solid other than the clutch needing replacement. 77's were fully galvanized which makes them pretty resistant to rust.....but not immune. In particular, I'd examine closely the front suspension pan, headlight buckets, rocker area, and under the rear window for signs of rust.

If she's solid, you would be getting a better deal than I got on mine last year!

ossiblue · 03-22-2009, 07:27 AM

As Cubby911T said, the rust issue is less likely (but obviously, still check) and $6K could be a great deal, IF...the issues with the 2.7 have been addressed and the engine is in good condition. If the engine is tired, has the 5 blade fan and thermal reactors, had no history of rebuild, you may be in for costly engine work. That, to me, would be the area of most concern. Once you check the body and cosmetics, focus on the engine--ask lots of questions and ask for records. If still interested, certainly get a PPI from a mechanic who knows about the 2.7. From the pictures and description, looks to be a potential good bargain.

unclebilly · unclebilly's Garage

2 words - buy it.

al lkosmal · 03-22-2009, 08:30 AM

I've owned a 77S for the last 12 years and it's been a great car. The only potential weakness is the dreaded "pulled head studs" on the 2.7 with thermal reactors.

Check for the following:
1. 11 blade fan - Your car has this already. That's a good sign.
2. Thermal reactors should be removed. (upgrade to SSI's)
3. Check for pulled head studs (you need to remove the valve cover to check head stud torque and see if any of the nuts have come off, etc)
4.timecerts or case savers installed?

My car spent it's life in the PNW..Seattle to Vancouver....nice cool climate, I didn't have to rebuild until I hit 140,000 miles or so. Completely box, stock engine with the 5 blade fan, thermal reactors, etc. When I pulled the engine apart, I had no pulled studs.

For $6K I'd buy this car in a heartbeat, maybe even with a few problems.

regards,

Al

Rich76_911s · Rich76_911s's Garage

In this thread I labeled most places to check for rust on a 911. They are plentiful.

1972 Rust

If it indeed has no rust I'd say that appears to be a good deal. Just do your due diligence and get a PPI done. Watch for accident damage too. In my opinion accident damage is as big a problem as rust. Good luck and welcome to the world of 911's.

JT912 · 03-22-2009, 10:54 AM

Give me call. I've know the car. It has a couple areas of concern. At $5800, it's a good deal if you are handy with a welder.
John
541.954.0722

pizza914 · 03-22-2009, 11:42 AM

After some deliberation I am going to hold off on the 911 for a while. I really love my 914's & in the middle of a restoration on one. I figured I better hold off until I get the Creamsicle resto done. I think when I take the plunge on a 911 I will go for one a little newer anyway. Really thanks for the good advice on the car. I am sure they will get it sold quickly.