What to look for on a high-mileage 3.2

[BradH]

I've looked at several higher mileage 3.2 Carrera's lately at seemingly attractive prices. What are the warning signs for these engines at >120k miles? Will a top-end rebuild be warranted in the near future, even if the engine has been maintained? What mileage on an original, non-rebuilt engine would scare you off?

Thanks,

Brad
Former 914 owner looking for "the 911"...

[scottb]

I think there's a good Pelican article on what to look for when buying a used Porsche. Of course, have a pre-purchase inspection done that includes a compression test and leakdown. I know the usefulness of a leakdown test is questionable, but the compression test will give you an idea of the status of the engine. Look for service records. Has it been maintained regularly, including oil changes? The 3.2 motor is reputed to be bulletproof, so if a car has been maintained and the compression and (maybe) leakdown look good, don't let 120,000 miles deter you (if the price is right).

[Tim Polzin]

My 86 has 198,000 miles on it with the top end done at about 150,000. I took it on a 2500 mile trip this summer to the Coast and would not be afraid to take it anywhere. I guess what I'm saying is don't let high mileage scare you off, but definately do a PPI.

[schulr]

The major issue, as I understand it, is premature valve guide wear. At 120k, this is likely to have already been done. I would thus look into who did the rebuild and parts used.

[Wayne 962]

Look here:

http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarticles/mult_Engine_Rebuild/mult_engine_rebuild-1.htm

-Wayne

[Joeaksa]

Tim,

What were the signs at 150k that made you overhaul the motor? How were the valve guides?

Joe

[Tim Polzin]

Joe: Just the top end was done, not the whole engine. This was also done by the previous owner, so good question. I'm assuming valve guide wear and oil consumption. Before I got the car, it was a one owner who drove it regularly, but kept up with the servicing. Came out of Virginia.