Finger on the trigger

[mickey356]

OK, I'm very close to pulling the trigger on a 1982 911SC. Here's what I know- it has 125k and has chain tensioner and pop off updates. Other than that it's pretty much what you would expect from a 27 year old car. The paint is rough. The interior is pretty good. A few very small rust spots but nothing critical and easily cleaned up to hold over until ready for new paint. New tires. It drives very nice and brakes are solid. I am scheduled to take it in for a PPI next friday morning.
So, being the optomist I am, I'm expecting a passing grade from the mechanic shortly followed by the exchange of money and a title.
Now I need to know what to expect from there. I've read and read everything I can get my hands on about 911SC's. They are supposed to be one of the best cars in regard to reliability (I know that has soooo much to do with how they've been maintained). I've done search after search here and have read varying opinions, issues, etc.... but I was wondering if some SC owners (past and present) could share some info on the typical repairs. I'm just trying to gather info on what I might expect to go wrong down the road and what those "typical
things may cost. Are there good used parts places out there? Who is the best (besides our host) parts supplier. Is it better to stay with a stock exhaust or an aftermarket one? What things are definites to do and what is overkill for a street car? I'm just looking for a nice daily driver. I'm not looking for a track day car or auto X car. I can live with creature comforts being on the fritz until I get to them (i.e. cold AC, faded carpet). The things that I'm concerned about are the parts that are critical to reliability.
I know this is a vague topic but I gotta start somewhere. Thanks, Mickey

[Dueller]

A fun read for the new owner: Dr. Pate's "101 Tips for 911 Owners"

Not exactly on point but worthwhile info

[TibetanT]

Hey There, Mickey! Good to hear that you made a good choice as far as a 911SC. They are a wonderful "introduction" to the Porsche car. And, yes, very reliable as long as the car is maintenanced at the prescribed time intervals.

Since you are getting a PPI, IMHO that would be the first step in knowing exactly what you are in for. With that document, you can gauge your projects or whether or not you will continue with the purchase. Hopefully, the PPI reflects that nothing needs to be done, but that is wishful thinking.

I gave my car a complete tune-up (replaced the oil, oil filter, air filter, plugs, fuel filter) and set the valves and timing. My next project entailed changing out all four corners with new Bilsteins. Then, of course, I purchased Wayne's (our host) book 101 Projects which gave me a host of other great ideas to embarke on. If you are a wrench, like I am, you will benefit by lower TCO.

One piece of advise, obtain and read all the maintenance records so you know exactly what has been done and when. It really helps. Many years ago, I started my own log book to keep track of everything I have done along with the parts receipts, which I might add is a long list of Pelican Parts purchases, as well as parts obtained from wonderful people on this BBS.

Welcome to Porsche ownership and to the Pelican clan. Have fun with your car!

[easelboy1]

I hope you do enjoy your SC! They are fun cars and as TibetanT has said - nice intro cars to the Porsche experience.

My advice - be patient and take your time. This is for both the work you do yourself and the work you have done by others. You will save lots of cash by doing research - I know this because the first rule of Porsche ownership is learning folks will think you are made of money

Ditto on Waynes' book - invaluable. I would also grab a Bentley Manual ...

Good luck to you and keep us posted!