ElRicardo

You’ll want to jump on V2’s offer.

CincyScott

It’s actually in Charlotte, but I definitely am grateful for the offer!

Millermatic

I turn 50 in a few weeks. I bought an 86 951 about 4 or so years ago.

Cheap. No records. 160k miles. Came with an extra engine with “low miles.”

I’ve now spent double what I purchased it for on parts and machine work. I’ve done all my own labor (except the machine work). I could probably sell it for a profit right now... but I don’t plan on ever selling it... so it’s a moot point.

There are a couple of galleries on my profile page if you’re interested. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

Regarding parts... I haven’t had too much trouble finding anything. The only “unobtainium” part for me has been a new dash cluster trim. I’ve gone through three used ones... the plastic pins that hold the air “diverter” tend to be broken. I’d pay a king’s ransom for a new one... but they aren’t available (the last time I checked).

944M3

Of course it’s a bad idea. But do it anyways. You will have a blast.

I also wanted the experience of resurrecting a car. I wanted the challenge and not just watch it on TV. So to me it wasn’t about making a profit, it was about learning and having fun in the process. Of course there were some bad days with bloody knuckles and stripped or broken studs and bolts but nothing that couldn’t be solved. (Get a Dremel and a grinder).

5 to 10k sounds about right. That gets you rebuilt head, rebuilt turbo, clutch assembly, rotors and pads, reseal kit, and some odds and ends. Another 2 to 5k if it sat outside for 15 years. Mine sat for 10 outside.

I always recommend just pulling the engine to do everything you need. Tons of how to posts and videos. Information and directions won’t be a problem.

let us know how it goes.

Stephencs601

Car is awesome. Get it don't look back and enjoy.

Millermatic

I did everything that could be done to the engine without taking it out.

I should have taken it out...

Flea3

Don't do it. The cars are old now. Borderline antiques. Parts are hard to get, there is little aftermarket support for a low volume 40 year old car and the knowledge base is literally dying.

Millermatic

I’ll grant you the “cars are old.” Other than that... I’ll respectfully disagree.

Parts are easy to get... if not always cheap. And the knowledge base? You’re posting to a goldmine of knowledge. The 944 community on Rennlist is fantastic. It’s easier for me to get help on pretty much _any_ question for my 944 than it is for either of my other “modern” cars.

CincyScott

Too late. I bought it anyway. I've rebuilt a lot of cars over the years, and I'm find that they 944/951 knowledge base is super deep and a lot of passionate people out there so far. I'm looking forward to the journey. Besides, what I paid for the car, I could part it out and make money if I felt the need to rid myself of the headache.

Flea3

Well, its on now I guess. Good luck!

944M3

Respectfully disagree with this on all levels.

Is it easy? No. But look through my original posts, I pulled my first engine outside on my driveway. Had zero issues finding parts. Found plenty of aftermarket parts I needed. Heck, you can still buy a new engine block directly from Porsche for heavens sake. Now, are you going to find the latest car gadget or latest and greatest accessories, probably not. But this is not a “JDM” wild build type car. You have plenty of basic parts to choose from to get this car to make crazy power. Good suspension and exhaust options, what more do you need? Good options for shops that will machine your block. So forth and so on. So again, what else do you need.

The point is, if a novice like me can do it, just about anyone can. Stepping on the gas and spinning that turbo up still brings a smile to my face. Not bad for an antique lol

ElRicardo

I'm glad someone said it. Lots of parts, tons of knowledge out there.

hp18racer

>> Don't do it. The cars are old now. Borderline antiques. Parts are hard to get, there is little aftermarket support for a low volume 40 year old car and the knowledge base is literally dying.
Oh crap, I thought my health was fine!