My father is giving me a 1980 Porsche 924 that hasn’t been driven in 8 years or so and needs some work (still finding out) but “should” start. I am trying to find out exactly what needs fixing on the car, but also wanted to compare the costs of having the car shipped from Colorado to North Carolina.
Anyone have some good resources on the least expensive, yet reliable alternatives to ship a car half way across the USA.
Thanks in advance.
Sean
The fuel system (tank, lines, pump, carb) will all need to be purged and cleaned. The carb will need a rebuild, unless the whole thing was drained and dried when it was stored.
After that, you should change all the fluids. Engine oil, power steering, transmission, differentials, engine oil, coolant, engine oil, brake fluid…did I miss any? Oh, yeah, engine oil…
Spark plugs will probably need changing, and on this year, probably distributor cap and rotor.
I’m not sure about shipping, but you’re going to want to make sure no one tries to start it on its journey across the country. Removing the battery (if it’s even there), would be a start. Pulling a few main fuses might be a good idea, too.
I’m one of those idiots who’d happily take a week off, and drive over and get it - but, I love to drive. I’m not quite sure why my job doesn’t involve sitting behind the wheel. Wait, money - that’s it. Couldn’t find a job that pays over $100K a year driving…except racing, but I couldn’t find a way into that.
Sorry, doesn’t answer your question, I know, but I think I gave you some things to think about.
Chase
A Porsche that hasn’t been driven in 8 years will need EVERYTHING fixed.
I agree with Chase. Don’t even try to start it. You’re likely to do more harm than good.
What are your plans for this car, and what is your budget for the project?
This will not be cheap. I suggest you make friends with a local Porsche mechanic, and be prepared to write some big checks. The shipping cost will be just the tip of the iceberg.
Thought of a few more: timing belt (a definite, before first attempt at start), oil filter, air filter, fuel filter, radiator hoses, heater core hoses, fan belt(s), tires. The clutch will probably be seized as well. You may be able to recover that…there are a few ways to “unstick” a stuck clutch. There are probably even more.
This year had 2 different motors…one had a turbo. If you have the turbo, that means synthetic oil. I’d use it regardless, but if it’s the turbo, definitely.
Regardless of all that, it would be a fun project for me, and I’d enjoy it. Best of luck!!
Chase
You really should have them try and start this vehicle before shipping it to you. This car should have CIS injection and CIS can be downright cantankerous even when it’s being used regularly.
After sitting for 8 years this could be a large barrel (not can) of worms.
The most common sticky points are going to be a failed fuel pump, shaky control pressure regulator, shaky fuel distributor, and all of the fuel injectors. Add in sitting for 8 years and I woud be very surprised if any of those parts are operative.
Servicing CIS takes a manual, a special fuel pressure gauge, and special techniques to
sort it all out. All vacuum lines, injector seals, etc (EVERYWHERE) must be inspected because CIS does not take kindly to any air leaks. Even something as simple as not inserting the engine oil dipstick all the way in affects them.
I would just tell Dad to sell the car and send you the money instead…This car is NOT an “investment” …It’s a “Money Pit”…Because it’s not running, shipping it will cost quite a bit more than the approximately $800 that shipping would normally cost…
Yep, Money Pit, capital M, capital P. You could take the money you’d spend on it (shipping and repair) and buy a working 944, the much superior successor to the weak 924. The 944’s also expensive to maintain, but would be LOTS more fun (and I think it looks much better).
Have me drive it there for you.
I drive cars for friends. Airfare back is cheap.
I always drive gently and smoothly and usually 60 rather than the higher speed limit because it is easier on thengine, gets better fuel economy and creates less pollution.
Whenever I stop for fuel, I check all fluids and tires and belts. Check engine oil afterefueling when it has had time to drain.
While driving I watch gauges.
There’s a catchphrase for cars with CIS injection. The CIS stands for Constantly In Sxxx.
The 924 was always the “red headed stepchild at Wal Mart” in the Porsche world anyway.