968 Pre-Purchase Checklist

David E. Clark · 04-09-2007, 03:13 PM

Since I couldn't find a 968 PPI checklist anywhere, I decided to modify one I created several years ago when I was shopping for my 911. Since everyone on this forum is sure to have more knowledge about the water coolers than I have, please look this over and let me know what you think. What did I miss? Specific 968 issues to look out for? Too detailed for anyone but a - I'll be nice and say meticulous - person like me?

I couldn't figure any way to upload this other than a .jpg so it's not editable. I also realize the page numbers are not right - it's a Word print issue since it shows up correctly on the screen!. Thanks.

Aerkuld · Aerkuld's Garage

David - I'm not a 968 expert by any means but that looks like a very comprehensive document. You've certainly covered all the major things I'd look at on any regular car as well as a few of the 944/924/968 peculiarities. I guess if the 968 guys can pick on anything specific that you have omitted, but I'd guess you have it well covered.
I'm impressed!

I'm glad you're thinking about getting one and sure you won't be disapointed.

ae1969 · 04-09-2007, 04:43 PM

In the undercarriage section.......

You should combine transmission and transaxle.

I would also check for the mileage/time that the clutch was swap out if at all.

JivenJim · 04-09-2007, 06:49 PM

Great List! Maybe add Compression #1,2,3,4

Check for saw dust in Tranny fluid, Lead pellets in water, and Sparkle from metal in Oil pan. (used car lot tricks)

jwade944 · 04:40 AM

A few specific 968 issues: Has the pinion bearing been repaired? This is a very common and expensive item on these cars. There is a lot of misinformation out there on it, but Getrag had an assembly problem with these transaxles and it affects all years. Typically it shows up between 30k and 60k miles. On my 1994 car, it was repaired at 42k. Have the cam chain, sprocket and tensioners inspected. This is easy to do and a good time to replace the cam cover gasket and spark plug seals. Over time, the chain can stretch and/or the pads can wear and this causes wear to the sprockets. Since the sprockets are welded to the camshafts, it can cause a big hit to your wallet. This typically shows up at 90k and higher, but should be checked by someone who knows what they are looking for. I'm not sure how to check for this, but the 968 uses a dual mass flywheel. A few have been known to prematurely fail and this is another expensive part. Some have used it as an opportunity to change to an aluminum flywheel. My 968 had about 60k miles on it and only had the pinion problem. As with all of the 924/944/968 cars, look for glass separating from the frame on the rear hatch and check all electrical accessories. Look carefully at the front fenders, they are very light gauge metal and can easily be deformed by careless mechanics. Of course, the problem with a post like this is that you only hear about problems. I'm really just trying to help you avoid surprises. These are really impressive cars with a fanatical following. Buy a good one and keep it that way. I think you'll find the total cost of ownership to be very reasonable. (Sorry, I missed your checklist on page 1, but you may want this info anyway.)

David E. Clark · 04-10-2007, 07:53 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by JivenJim
Check for saw dust in Tranny fluid, Lead pellets in water, and Sparkle from metal in Oil pan. (used car lot tricks)

I'm familiar with these tricks! Many years ago I looked at a car that had 80 weight gear oil in the engine (you can tell from the smell) to up the compression. I passed on the car and about two weeks later saw it at the side of the road with a VERY angry driver

! Caveat emptor takes on a whole new meaning on a used car lot! You always need to check for overuse of additives. The best test I know is immediately after the road test, while the car is still hot, look under the oil cap and radiator cap (be careful not to burn yourself with hot coolant when removing the radiator cap) for froth or other deposits. This test will help if you suspect that additives have been used to suppress noises or leaks.

Thanks for all the suggestions. If anyone wants a copy of the checklist in Word format, send me your home email and I'll send you a copy.