bs951

I have been out of the 944 ownership game for awhile. Sold my 951 a while back.

Looking to get back in. 1988 944S. 125K miles. Recent complete t-belt service, head rebuild, front suspension service including control arms and ball joints, Koni all around, new alt, and new radiator.

Looks to be a solid starting point. Asking $4500 obo.

I need to confirm the condition of other areas such as, transaxle, brakes, electrical, torque tube, etc.

What do you all think? I know the info is limited but input is welcomed.

Cheers

Northern_aqs

Sounds like a reasonable purchase price considering recent work. I'm guessing that the timing chain pads were replaced when the head was rebuilt, but you should confirm before purchase or plan to do it right away. The transaxle on the NA cars seem to hold up, I would be more concerned with clutch condition and if a replacement is pending soon. What is the car like cosmetically? Paint and interior work can add up quickly on these cars. I own an 87 951 and 87 944S and have found the S to be very reliable and with fewer service surprises than my turbo. No drag racer but these are great touring/vacation cars.

bs951

Took a look at the 944S this weekend. Needs some cosmetic attention, but overall a solid car with records. Recent clutch, TB service, Konis, etc.

Car runs great, pulls well through RPMs, drivetrain is tight...

On cold start there is valvetrain/lifter noise. Oil pressure is at proper levels. No vibration. Noise goes away after about 10-15 mins of driving.

Should I be concerned?

Appears seller is motivated. Thanks

pfarah7

Could be any number of issues including crappy or old oil. Did the oil pressure light stay on for extended period of time?

bs951

No, oil pressure raised nicely and without major fluctuations.

Northern_aqs

If my S is parked for a while, there is lifter noise like you describe but it does go away once the engine (including oil) gets up to full operating temperature. Not so concerning to me.

bs951

Negotiated a purchase price. I'm back in the 944 game, albeit NA. Need to work out logistics on getting her to the new home. Cheers.

PaulD_944S2

FYI, there is a pressure relief valve (or pressure regulating valve) in the back of the 944S head that controls oil flow to the camshaft and lifters. It's not to hard to remove and check, search on this forum for details.

951and944S

The 944S has an insulated plastic piece that snaps over the fuel rail also to quiet injector noise. Maybe it is/was missing...?

T