915 bearing noise - serious?

[thundus]

I'm looking at a '72 911T for purchase. During test drive, car makes a dragging type noise, directly related to vehicle speed (frequency increases with speed, no noise at stop), in 2nd gear only. Noise is exactly the same regardless of clutch engaged or disengaged, and does not change with engine load; noise goes away as soon as you pull lever out of 2nd, and comes back (with vehicle rolling) as soon as you pull it in. It's the kind of noise I'd associate with a differential or dragging brake pad, but since it's so obviously tied to gear it must be in the transmission. Noise level is high enough that you can't miss it with windows up, top on, radio off (both my wife and I caught it in less than 5 miles of driving), but not so loud that it couldn't be tolerated. Transmission otherwise operates nicely, syncros seem fine and no gear noise.
I don't know much about transmission internals generally, and nothing about 915 internals specifically... any theories on what this could be, and if so, is it an issue to drive the car with the concern for the summer and put off transmission rebuild until the winter, or could this be putting metal in the case and cause further damage? If this is specific to some 2nd gear bearing, is there any such thing as a partial/cheap rebuild or assume costs for a complete?
Any info greatly appreciated-- I really want the car but need to make sure I can afford the repair expenses...
Thanks--

[Matt Monson]

Any bearing noise is a rebuild. And anyone who drives a car like that and doesn't fix it isn't a very diligent owner. Find another car to buy or get a steep discount. The gearbox will cost $2500-3000 to repair.

[DRACO A5OG]

Did you ask the Seller if he had it diagnosed? I would send him an email so you have it on record.

+1 probably needs a rebuild. Will Seller allow you to open up the inspection plate?

[Evans, Marv]

Like Matt said if there is a bearing noise, it's a rebuild. Reason being if you have to open it up, it's not economically feasible to do that just to fix one thing. You're only putting off having to rebuild it (again) when it comes time because of the wear & tear on the other parts requiring it. I'd try to get the seller to discount the price considering the rebuild or discount to the point you're comfortable with. If he's not willing, I'd walk & keep an eye out for another car & let the seller find another sucker. It's easy for buyers to get all starry eyed and ignore the situation down the road.

[chrismorse]

Give a shop or two a call to get an idea of the likely range of costs you might be looking at. JWE, Patrick motor sports and CMS come to mind.
You will be in a better negotiating position.
The shops will tell you what else might need doing.
A pre-purchase inspection is also a good idea.
Good luck
Chris

[bkreigsr]

If it's a trans fix you are looking at, the shop will probably offer you several options.

#1, fix the second-gear related items, (synchro, sliders, etc.), or #2 - total trans refresh.
Matt's numbers were probably based on the former alternative - the latter can run $6,000 - $7,000, depending on other peripherals like clutch package choice, dog-gear upgrade, and any flywheel work needed. (more $$$ if you actually need new gears)

Bill K

[thundus]

Thanks for the info everybody, that's very helpful. Owner's a good guy, just seems like the car has kind of gotten away from him as he's gotten older and doesn't drive it much. I'll see if he's willing to discount for the trans, if not I'm OK with walking away from it...

[thundus]

Just closing this out... made an offer including discount for trans rebuild and other PPI issues, which owner declined. Thanks much for the help, makes me a lot more comfortable just waiting for a better car...

[DRACO A5OG]

Wise Decision! You will find the right one. :-)