What to look out for buying a 914?

maxwedge · 05-24-2009, 06:38 AM

I'm looking to get my first 914. Having lived in IL most of my life, I am aware of the potential rust issues. I can't even remember the last time I saw a 914 around here, probably 10 years or more though, which is why I have pretty much decided to buy a car from the southwest. The sole purpose would be as a toy/ weekend racer, but I don't want a major project either. Ideally something I could fly in and drive back to IL. Just wondering if somebody could give me a quick rundown of the basic common and or expensive 914 quirks and potential problem areas?

Rrrockhound · Rrrockhound's Garage

Check out the buyer's guide on this site if you haven't already:

http://www.pelicanparts.com/914/How_to_buy_a_914.htm

The number 1 thing is rust. It can be anywhere, but the trickiest place to find it is in the hellholes, the really deep forward wells of the engine compartment. If you can, find a volunteer on this board to check out a car for you, somebody who already knows where to look. You didn't say what your price range is, but for less than five figures you can get into something nice without taking on a major project.

maxwedge · 05-24-2009, 10:14 AM

Didn't see that guide earlier, but thanks a lot, because it's exactly what I was looking for. 4-5K is right around what I was hoping to spend. Would be great to have somebody that knows what they are looking at check out a prospective car or two. I have a few gearhead friends living in So Cal and Las Vegas since I used to live both places, but nobody that would have any specific 914 knowledge. I probably won't start looking in earnest until mid June or so, since I have my hands full with some other projects I need to finish and clear out some garage space, but I am highly motivated and I need a vacation so hopefully it won't be too long.

Dave at Pelican Parts · Dave at Pelican Parts's Garage

Contact Brad Mayeur in East Peoria. He's been working on these cars since they were new. Google for his phone number; I don't think he checks email very frequently.

--DD

maxwedge · 05-24-2009, 06:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dave at Pelican Parts

Contact Brad Mayeur in East Peoria. He's been working on these cars since they were new. Google for his phone number; I don't think he checks email very frequently.

--DD

That must be "914 LTD" huh? Awesome to hear there is a Porsche guy nearby. I honestly never new that place existed, even though I used to date a girl in East Peoria that lived about three blocks from the listed address. Must have driven right past it hundreds of times without ever looking very far down the street.