List of DIY friendly jobs you can do on a 1980s 911?

[PushingMyLuck]

I started a thread a while back about compiling a list of all the fixes/repairs you could do to a newly acquired 911 to make it "sorted and done"

http://forums.rennlist.com/rennforums/911-forum/762377-list-of-repairs-to-do-on-a-sc-3-2-that-you-just-bought-to-make-it-done.html
List of repairs to do on a SC/3.2 that you just bought (to make it "done")

What I neglected to differentiate were jobs the weekend driveway mechanic could do vs. the jobs a pro mechanic really needs to do. So, can we make a new list? Stuff that can be done WITHOUT a lift or welding, or removing the entire engine, for example (or whatever makes the job jump into "big leagues") What are all the "little jobs" you could take on yourself?

Again, let's say you don't know the service history, and you don't mind replacing a few things that don't need fixin'. You have the budget to replace things that aren't broken, in the name of expanding your knowledge of wrenching and working on your 911. Like replacing some spark plugs, maybe they are already brand new. Oh well, $50 won't kill ya. That's the mindset here. At least you now know the mileage of the new spark plugs.

Let's say you bought a 1984-1989 3.2 911. It has 150k miles, and you have no idea of the service history. You want to make the car "bulletproof" mechanically, and replace all wear items. You will start with what you can DIY yourself in your driveway, and then farm out the rest to a pro.

Can we make a big list that could be used as a checklist of things to replace once you take delivery of a 911?

[zippy_gg]

From the top of my head:

• spark plugs
• distributor rotor
• distributor cap
• spark plug wires
• air filter
• oil and filter
• fuel filter
• Transmission oil
• battery
• alternator (and A/C) belt
• Replace tie rods with Turbo style
• Adjust valves
• replace valve cover gaskets
• Replace brake rubber lines
• Replace brake pads
• Flush brake system

With a partial engine drop:

• Bermuda Triangle (oil leaks)
• Fuel lines
• Clean injectors

[Scott Douglas]

Wayne's 101 Projects book is a good starting point IMHO.

[PushingMyLuck]

Originally Posted by Scott Douglas

Wayne's 101 Projects book is a good starting point IMHO.

101 Projects for Your Porsche 911, 1964-1989 (Motorbooks Workshop): Wayne R. Dempsey: 9780760308530: Amazon.com: Books

[SkiVT]

shift bushings, coupler to bottom of shifter.

[Joe Bob]

Wayne's book is a good start. Just realize that there are different ways of doing upgrades.

The wiper mod can be done faster and easier from the gauge holes as opposed to going thru the trunk access.

[sacoffee]

VR / alternator
CV boots and joints

[dentist90]

Originally Posted by Scott Douglas

Wayne's 101 Projects book is a good starting point IMHO.

Yup... I've had it for 8 years and I still have 87 projects left!

(luckily removing broken head studs isn't one of them...yet)

[faverymi]

Random rubber things.

seals
pedals
grommets
pads
mounts
stops
tires
bushings
mats.

Lots of rubber there...

Sunroof seal. Just did that one.

[yelcab1]

No need for a lift to remove engine. Then, we can talk about serious projects.

[PushingMyLuck]

Originally Posted by yelcab1

No need for a lift to remove engine. Then, we can talk about serious projects.

You know what I mean.
Basic stuff that is mostly R&R (remove & replace)
Stuff that can be done with a high probability of success by reading the online write-up. etc.

If I get a 911, I will get that book.

[ChemMan]

Rear shocks are pretty straight forward.

[OttoBob]

RS door panels to clean up the interior if needed. Easy DIY job that is very satisfying!

[porterdog]

Ha, can't believe I'm the first to mention an Italian Tune Up.

(Best when performed daily...)