b1114p

I've got the fever - I'm a sick, sick, sick individual...

After buying my first 928 (79 5-speed, now at 163k) last October, I've managed to bring it into reasonable and reliable shape (short of the paint and front seats - which are still passable) and having a blast doing it...

I've just committed to the purchase of a 85 Auto model w/74k on the clock!

http://limaohio.craigslist.org/cto/1169130203.html

It's a driver and will need some fine tuning and dedication to bring into really good shape, but it's solid, complete and I couldn't beat the price ($500 off the listed 2900). I'm not sure I will like the auto at all but am sure I'll be combing this forum for tips on how to make that perform more aggressively as my first impression was that it was a pretty tame setup, although it seemed to operate well. At worst, I'm pretty sure I won't ever take a loss on it, should I end up being dissatisfied with the auto tranny.

Wish me luck as I tear into my new shark to bring it back into respectable condition!

Ben



PS: Anyone have any leads on a shift **** that will work for a reasonable price? (used, aftermarket) TIA -

Landseer

I'm not sure from your post, Ben, if you got this beautiful car for $2400 or $500.

I guess It really doesn't matter, though. Exceptional, nice.

Congratulations. You now have a cool combination, 16V 5spd and 32V Auto.

Not sick. Enlightened.

b1114p

Either bad grammer or fat fingers - corrected! ($2400)

The 32v was of great interest and a primary reason for the purchase. I'm trying to enter this with eyes-open regarding what this means in terms of maintenance and potential headaches (as well as cost!). We'll see how it all works out

Landseer

Followed same path as you are.

Working on 16V is like playing in a jazz band.

32V is an orchestra. Its all good.

porsche928guy

Any records on the 85? When was the timing belt last done? The first thing to do is check the timing belt! If you end up doing this job you should also replace or at least check:

Water pump
Replace tensioner with Porkensioner - Available through 928sRus (Roger)
Check cam and oil pump gears for wear
Front cam seals
Oil pump seal
Crank seal

The t-belt is a thing of concern on the 32v cars and is a bad deal if it goes south. This isn't a concern on the most 16v cars.

Oh and good buy!

b1114p

Thanks! No records with the 85 :-(

I'll will be going over all of that ... this is like my new summer project, but it should be worth it - for the challenge/enjoyment of it (and financially). Part of my decision was based on the better resale in the 85 - again, probably because of the more powerful/desirable 32v engine... If I do keep it long(er) term - that same factor should add to my own enjoyment. Never found a car I couldn't get elbows-deep into and achieve success (Alfa, BMW, Audi, and now Porsche).

Yeah - lost a TB on an '86 Alfa GTV-6 - not pretty! But I did manage to rebuild it (several new valves, head surfacing, etc)... Much younger then and invulnerable (read: stupid)... ;-D

nosnow

Before doing the timing belt work check the crank play. No need to put money into an engine if it has TBF.

I love my 86 and bought it much like you. From the pics it looks like you got a very good deal!

b1114p

I also understand that flex plate "release" should be done, or is that for a different year-range with automatic?

I did notice some apparent lifter noise at idle after a 3-5 mile test-drive. I gather that could be a multitude of things, but first I'm going to try a fresh oil change with 20W50 to see what that nets...

b1114p

TBF=thrust bearing failure?

Bertrand Daoust

Yes.

Fogey1

Also, and alas confusingly, Timing Belt Failure.

joe cat

For me I had to tighten the throttle cable- It was so loose that the auto sucked! Went into fourth way to early- you had to stomp it to go into 3rd. NOW IT NO LONGER makes me hanker for a five speed- I do like my automatic!

Good luck!

RicerSchnitzzle

Even more confusing TBF = Throttle Body Failure...

b1114p

I realize how noobish this question seemed...

So, here's another: Is there any way to check crank end-play externally (and quickly, easily) BEFORE I pay this guy on Saturday? Is it possible that the "valve tappet noise" I suspected from the car is actually a crank that is moving axially? I found this: http://members.rennlist.com/v1uhoh/cranksha.htm but that's a little involved for the occasion... I suppose if I later discovered were crapped-out I can probably part out and recoup my investment


BTW, anyone else with a cool TLA translation for TBF?

cold_beer839

I thought the '85 automatic cars had the c-clip that prevented TBF.