Just bought a 914, what should I check?

[AaronM]

I know all the basic stuff, like how to check for frame flex, I know where the rust demon lurks in 914's, I knew to avoid a carbbed 914, etc. However being raised with 'modern' cars (I'm 19) I would like to know what kind of basic things should be done to my "new" 1976 2.0. Should I have the points changed as a matter of course? Is it a good idea to go through the entire FI system even though the car runs and starts perfectly? Essentailly I want to know what kind of normal maintenance should be done to a 118,464 mile 1976 914 2.0. Thanks in advance for your help.

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Shifting is an art. Learn it, love it, live it.

[jabez]

I'll give you a couple of musts - check ALL the fuel and vacuum hoses NOW! I have seen the results of dry rotted Teener hoses and it ain't pretty. Also points, plugs, condenser, oil, filters and pull the bottom strainer and see what's lurking there. That'll tell you a lot about the innerds of the motor.

Welcome!

[DDS]

Credit rating.

Check the condition of electrical connections, blast with contact cleaner then lube. Look for chafe on wires. Check for water collecting uncer seats against firewall. Clean underside of engine and lookk for seeping oil, same for brake fluid at calipers, esp. rears. Enjoy!

[This message has been edited by DDS (edited 09-06-2001).]

[Jim Smolka]

Also get your hands on a Haynes manual or similar (available from Pelican). Also, check out all the grounds. Check to make sure that the cooling tins are in good order.

Read all you can on your car. They are becoming a great classic...

Good time to replace the tranny fluid with the blue Swepco stuff. Be sure to drain and flush it with the cheap stuff first (you will need a large allen wrench).

Check out the shifting bushings.

Replace your battery with a dry type Optimum.

Try to keep your car dry, rust kills more 914 than anything else. Also find a good mechanice. Poor maintenance kills 914s also...

[AaronM]

Thanks for the advice guys. I've wanted a 'teener since I saw my first one at age 10, something about the shape. Thanks for reminding me about all the rubber hoses and the wiring/connections. Jim, thanks for the pointer on the battery, though the car has a brand new Interstate which I hate to replace. (I'll end up replacing it anyway in order to preserve the current excellent condition of the battery tray.) I didn't know they made dry cell automotive batteries. As far as keeping her dry, it will be a freezing day in July before the car sees water outside of my washing it. Again, thanks.

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Shifting is an art. Learn it, love it, live it.

[Conrad W Peden]

You might also want to get a transmission 'service'. Change the fluid, check shift linkage for wear and the linkage bushings.

Clutch, accelerator and hand brake cables also.

A few things that always seem to be overlooked. But could stop you in your tracks, no matter what the engine is doing.



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CWP/VIR
72 914 L20E in rusto.
73 914 L20E 2.0L in resto.
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