Thoughts on '84 944

[DaddyGlenn]

1984 944, automatic has been sitting for 10 years in a garage. Engine turns over but no spark. Owner has replaced battery and DCE. Otherwise in very good shape. Only 65k miles.

I'm thinking about buying. Any thoughts on what I could be in for?

[zedsn]

Lots. Auto rubber trans dampener is probably cracked and may need replaced after you get the car running and start driving it. A 944 that has been sitting that long will have many issues like crudded up gas tank, gas lines and injectors. Belts should be done right away before you attempt to crank the engine over anymore and while you are in there might as well do the water pump too. No spark could be computer, reference sensors, coil, ignition switch or some other issue like a mouse getting hungry in there. If it were me and I wanted a 944 I would find a clean nice running example. They are out there and with this economy you can find a good one at a good price. My 2 cents.

[FrenchToast]

The early (pre 1985.5) cars only had 5-digit odometers. So that claimed mileage could be 65k, 165k, 265k, etc.

The no spark could be a bad reference sensor or DME, or either not being fully plugged in. Or a mouse has eaten any of the relevant wires. Or of course, it could be the spark plugs and other more obvious stuff.

Standard upon-purchase maintenance for these 8V cars includes checking and replacing the timing belt, full fluid flush, etc.

[JAXTURBO]

Originally Posted by zedsn

Lots. Auto rubber trans dampener is probably cracked and may need replaced after you get the car running and start driving it. A 944 that has been sitting that long will have many issues like crudded up gas tank, gas lines and injectors. Belts should be done right away before you attempt to crank the engine over anymore and while you are in there might as well do the water pump too. No spark could be computer, reference sensors, coil, ignition switch or some other issue like a mouse getting hungry in there. If it were me and I wanted a 944 I would find a clean nice running example. They are out there and with this economy you can find a good one at a good price. My 2 cents.

All true, however a running 944 in good shape almost has no equal. I have a relatively low mileage model, I have changed more !@#$% parts on it than ones I see being driven regular. Patience... you'll need loads of it with these babies.

[FLYGEEZER]

I've had my 1984 944 automatic since 1999 purchased from the original owner. However, the car sat in a dry garage for about 5 years, never driven. No abuse and 105,000 SERVICED & DOCUMENTED miles. Let me tell ya, your gonna spend a lotta money. The dampener alone cost $1100.00. And it's gonna go, I promise you. Despite it all........ I don't regret a dime spent to make mine what it is. Enjoy!

[John_AZ]

DaddyGlenn- Tired Member

+1 zedsn

Automatic tans flex damper = $1200 just for the part.

If you are still thinking about it, the 3 speed auto is only good for long commutes if you get it running---not the car for a Tired Member.

John

[DaddyGlenn]

Thanks everyone. The damper price is enough for me to walk away from an automatic. I'll keep looking....