Everything To Know Before Buying A Vintage Air-Cooled 911- Expert Porsche Pre-Purchase Inspection

[@fcpeuro]

Looks like we have some DIYs to make on this one.... 🤔😁

[@themadhatter444]

What a pleasure to watch. Thanks for FCP for not gumming up this video with shitty B roll and unnecessary music. Thorough, to the point, and well articulated. Hoping to get more of these in the future!

[@fcpeuro-media]

More like this coming - glad you enjoyed the format!

[@neilblaskett701]

This guys presentation skills and detail to what he is doing is spot on. I don’t even own an old 911 and I was hooked 😂

[@fcpeuro-media]

The goal was for anyone to be able to learn/enjoy from it!

[@rocketpac]

Sharing time. As an owner of an 88 Targa (I really want a white coupe like this one!!!). I can say that one will be spending a ton of time and money (insane money if a shop does the work) on almost any used G series 911 if you want a it sorted. I got mine for a really good deal a few years ago from a business associates wife that had it sitting in a garage for 5 years ($30k and l'm lucky that there was zero corrosion as it was stored property). Fast forward 3 years and $24k later to get it fully sorted and I'm only 90% complete (most of what is left is minor interior and the AC system). Sadly, if you are in the market for one, I would figure an engine rebuild if it has not been done. My engine was at 92,000 miles was running great with lots of little leaks (all of these cars leak), but I got a fuel line leak which required removing the all the intake off to repair. When I started the work I noticed all the electrical connections, hoses, etc. were all cracked and nasty. So I bit the bullet and pulled the engine and sent it off for a proper rebuild to replace all those old bits, as I felt I would be chasing little gremlins if I didn't do it right. Amazing car, but not for the faint of heart. But the prices for these are still pretty high, considering that the vast majority will need significant work to be properly sorted.

[@jeffreyb.1657]

Well said....a.k.a. money pits. Had a 993 and it just kept going and going and going and going....and those are supposed to be the best....then your dash cracks....unobtanium...plus labor as they screw up the front window on the way out....and goes and goes and goes...

[@porschewill]

Deeply impressed. Narrated with passion, professionalism and experience. Sure, you can drive a Porsche and have fun. But this guy nails the fact that to enjoy the near mythical final 10% you have to cut no financial corners. Brilliant video. Possibly the best Porsche video on KZbin.

[@fcpeuro-media]

Wow really appreciate the kind words - and glad you enjoyed it!

[@edwardx.winston5744]

This video was amazing and insightful. That said, it sure scared me away from ever contemplating 911 ownership unless I suddenly become independently wealthy. Apparently that is an unavoidable prerequisite.

[@fcpeuro-media]

At this point its hard to get into one of these cars "Reasonably" without a plan to spend a decent amount of time , money, and effort bringing it back to its former glory. That said - its so worth it 😅

[@steveoconnell1104]

Great video, really thorough and clear to understand. Just goes to show, buyers need to do their checks and balance to be eyes wide open to what they’re getting into. This car is a shiny gem on the body and in the cabin, mechanically you need to leave yourself some contingency on the deal to get your car on point. From every angle I just love these cars 👌

[@rich76911s]

Really nice video! Only thing I would have added is places to check for rust and accident damage. Nice to see Mr. Butzi Gear

[@jmsjms296]

Thanks for the competent inspection. Wouldn't wanna have to pay the bill, though!

[@severinhendrikx7893]

No definitely not! Every rubber part has to be replaced….. not sure what to think here. We have a car thats over 50 years old and he wants to make it new. This sounds like a 10-15k bill, with a basically good car. I would walk away.

[@SmartFirstPrincipleThinking]

I purchased a 1972 911S sunroof coupe in 1983 with 70,000 miles Cali car, silver black leather with factory sport seats, paid $8,750, had the engine rebuilt to 2.7L RS specs, rebuilt everything including the TBs, mechanical injection with the RS space cam, cad plated and powder coated everything, went through all the other mechanicals, car was close to concourse, sold it in 1991 one of my biggest mistakes of many, also had a 964 and sold that before they exploded in price, I now have a 2008 E60 M5 that is close to perfect with a fully built 5.8L stroker motor that I will not sell, hopefully learned my lesson, still love Porsches…

[@NewpsBeach22]

Go back and find another air cooled 911. Dump the BMW. It’s not even in the same league.

[@billynguyen710]

Excellent video! The insight, the advice, the education. Thanks for producing this.

[@fcpeuro-media]

Our pleasure Billy!

[@analogdriver88]

Great PPI, you obviously know these aircooled 911s! Thanks for this great video. However, that fuel pump running when you turned the ignition on means the wire connection has been modified. As you know, it should only run as the engine cranks. Also, fuel pump shouldn’t create that loud whining noise when it runs. I have an 87 3,2 Carrera and most of the issues you mentioned in this video have been fixed. Not cheap but the roi is pure driving pleasure. 😊

[@oellasawandtool]

Great video. Time does have a way of breaking down rubber and plastics. It does give one trepidation on owning an “older” 911. The Carrera are considered one of the most robust and reliable yet age does affect materials. I was just rough guessing an estimate of repairs and got a big bill in my head. This is a car for someone with means who has a good air cooled Porsche shop nearby or a diy guy with a lift, snap-on box and plenty of time. And interest to be fussing with all these issues. I miss my 83Sc at times but happy I sold it years ago. Not sure If I would want to deal with an aging car actually at this point. They do look great. Really iconic design. And not too flashy

[@ATL92127]

Love it! Would be great to see more of these types of videos for other enthusiast cars

[@fcpeuro-media]

We are happy everyone is digging the format, more to come!

[@bennyb.1742]

Bought hunk of trash E30, should have also purchased FCP Euro stock because they now claim half my income.

[@fcpeuro-media]

@@bennyb.1742 bahaha sorrry! We are only trying to help 🤣

[@jackandblaze5956]

It's amazing how similar this car is underneath to the Karmann Ghias I used to have 25 years ago - just like perfected versions of the KGs. The Ghias had all the same intricacies, so many details are exactly the same, all the way down to the little wool pad in the shaft of the distributor and the colorful ceramic fuses in the frunk. The biggest difference is that 410 lbs six cylinders engine in the back instead of a 150 lbs, 60 HP flat four. Everything else in the car looks the same - just beefed up.

[@Joker-ig8im]

My first car was a 1972 Karmann Ghia that I taught myself how to drive in on twisty country roads. It always reminded me of a 911 while driving because of the you look out over the bonnet and the grooves that form the round headlights. Nothing like that feeling of the Zeppelin II tape in the Alpine blaring through the 6by9's, Passport Radar Detector, pushing the Ghia right up to the very limit around those long sweeping turns with that engine over that back axle slightly oversteering, not 100% sure your going to make it! I will always love that car.

[@stefanserlachius31]

Thanx for a very good presentation!

[@ianrobertson5124]

Great video, lots of great points, and really well presented.

[@jibmaster]

Wow that was a nice thorough PPI from someone who knows their way around a 911. This car is an amazing survivor. Likely needing $8-10K+ right out off the top if you needed to take it to a shop. PPI SO important! Clean, example and lots of fun projects for someone. My very first 911 experience was a 87' Gbody car--white with burgandy! Beautiful.

[@fcpeuro-media]

Really a prime example, we admittedly had hoped to show something in a bit rougher shape haha!

[@harrisonbergeron5393]

This is so much fun to listen to this guy. Thank you

[@fcpeuro-media]

happy you enjoyed it!

[@y0057]

Great video 👌🏿. Never knew about the battery tube for ventilation. I’ll be checking this on mine. I have not had issues and have had the car for some years. Thanks for sharing some invaluable tips much appreciated from UK🙏🏿

[@fcpeuro-media]

Happy to help - and if it needs replacing you know where to come!

[@keithmiller5913]

You checked the superficial stuff but forgot the serious $$$ . How about accident damage structural rot low oil pressure low compression etc???

[@verdict1163]

Not surprised FCP Euro is now making cool car content on KZbin... always enjoyed buying parts from there when I had my E30. And that warranty is legendary!

[@fcpeuro-media]

Funny enough w've been on youtube for over 13 years primarily creating DIY's - thanks for your support as a customer! kzbin.info/door/S49P-SYzk08DDs9wMi6TZg

[@Slack3rDav3]

that was a great overview of what to do on a PPI for lots of cars. I'll have to go over all this next time I have my mini up on jack stands.

[@redbarchetta8782]

Very, very good information. Much applies to any classic.

[@fcpeuro-media]

You're right - a lot of what was covered here can be used to inspect any classic really!

[@anthonyfunderburk7871]

Awesome video 😎😎😎💯👊🏾👊🏾👊🏾

[@ianalderton6683]

I had an 83 and an 88- I definitely recomend a 3.2 car 84 to 89 for reliability

[@kylen.6742]

When he said the brake pedal firmed up after pumping it a couple times and might need a fluid change I was like ya that’s not how that works.

[@john2ndname]

FCP Euro are great for guys like me!..for parts at great prices and best of all the shipping costs and minimal time of delivery here in Australia is the best!..Thanks FCP Euro.

[@armytodd]

Great video, inspired me to go down to the garage and do the same inspection on my '87 cabrio! Do you guys at FCP recommend Valvoline VR1 20W50 or Mobile 1 15W50 in these 3.2 Carreras? Mine has Mobile 1 but leaks quite a bit :(

[@martinmoffitt4702]

thank you very nice presentation

[@speedmachine69]

Old mate's a freekin ninja no doubt about it..... cheers from NZ....

[@annoodannoo1032]

Good video - down to earth and what I can determine very accurate.

[@fcpeuro-media]

We are lucky to have Luke right around the corner from us!

[@anthonyfunderburk7871]

When I bought my 1987 911 convertable 3 years ago, the guy had $35,000 worth for receipts. Rebuilt, motor and G 50 five speed

[@fcpeuro-media]

Wow.... still have it?

[@rogerhudson9732]

Always buy pre-1974 .The problem is there just aren't many left.

[@112hounddog]

Reading the comments I had no idea Porsche owners were so defensive about the brand, great cars if you have the disposable income to maintain them though

[@jmsjms296]

They never were cheap rides...

[@ronbelanger4113]

They are excellent for spirted drives., cost of keeping it going can be brutal.

[@enuclear]

Excellent video. Just underlines the importance of a PPI by a reputable Porsche specialist. Interested to know what is the estimate on fixing the priorities?

[@fcpeuro-media]

We will be producing DIY's and a little build series on this car - so more to come along those lines!

[@RESTREPOOFFICIAL]

I have to say my experience on my 1966 was a total nightmare …. Loved staring at it ing the garage, lol but was down most of the time

[@fcpeuro-media]

Sooo at the point its just like enjoying a painting hanging on the wall - nothing wrong with that 😅

[@vandliszt]

I’m looking to buy a rolling body and chassis. No need for interior or engine or wires. If it looks like it’s supposed to I’ll Frankenstein the rest.

[@detonator2112]

Air cooled 911's are so expensive that there aren't many neglected examples out there anymore. This has dramatically changed in the last 10 years after the prices skyrocketed. It was completetly different when you could buy an air cooled for 25K. Those days are long gone.

[@overbuiltlimited]

Bought an 89' coupe fron a small P car dealer in late 2019. Paid $68K which was good money for one of these at that time. Car appeared to be a high level driver. Zero rust, pristine interior, nice paint. Had a PPI done at a reputable So Cal shop. Was told solid car that is ready to be driven. Put a few hundred miles on it over the next month. It started smoking on start up for extended periods. Took it to my local P car shop thinking that the runners were going to need to be replaced. I was right. Bad runners. As he opened up the engine though he found there was wide spread corrosion inside the engine. Pistons, valves, cam, heads, timing chain... Essentially everything on the inside was shot. Full engine rebuild. That is making a very long story very short but the point is that you are still taking a chance even when you pay good money for a nice car. No one is going to disassemble an engine for a PPI. Would be too expensive. No owner would ever allow that anyway. You never know what is inside the engine until you open it up, and you may have to write a big check when you do. A full engine rebuild on an old 911 is much more expensive than an old muscle car rebuild. Maybe not Ferrari levels in price but getting there.

[@5080cd]

@@overbuiltlimitedgreat story, but what the guy above said is true as well. have a nice day!

[@detonator2112]

@@overbuiltlimited Wow. Crazy. How can the engine rust from inside like that? Maybe it has been standing for years?

[@overbuiltlimited]

@@detonator2112 The car came with a big binder of receipts. It had a lot of maintenance over the years. The owners didn't skimp. What we found was that the owner who the dealer bought it from drove the car very little. That guy owned it for six years and only drove it a few hundred miles a year. We think he was using it for very short trips that did not allow the engine to get up to temp. Also, the car would sit for months so there was probably water in the engine caused by fuel breakdown. The water went to town on the internals and corroded everything.

[@detonator2112]

@@overbuiltlimited Ok. I understand it if it had been in the road salt areas. That kills the cars because the salt goes everywhere. I live in Scandinavia and pretty much only Volvos are built for these conditions. Old Volvos better as they are not so full of electronics. No sane person drives their air cooled 911's during the winter here.

[@ovalwingnut]

Correction 22:23: That "front" engine seal (leak) is actually a "rear" seal (leak). Rear engine cars 101: Front is Front... Just saying

[@TAXCOLLECTOR-mx3mg]

Assuming the engine doesn't need work I would look at everything else after. OIL OIL OIL. and related problems need to be addressed even before considering buying the car. The 3.0 is your car.

[@ArmTheCreative]

Forget the Porsche. I need the FLASHLIGHT info at 14:05 !

[@gnoy26]

Please do one for the e46m

[@shughes911]

As bad as I would love to own an air cooled I guess I’ll keep my 05.

[@michaeledwardlenzi]

Excellent. I learned a lot. But can I retain it?😂

[@fcpeuro-media]

Thats what the replay button is for 😅

[@jordipi7652]

How much?

[@chopperking007]

The engines are not tough like a V8 , mine broke head bolts when i thrashed it

[@floodtheinbox]

I couldn’t even afford a scuffed rust bucket 911 why am I watching this

[@fcpeuro-media]

We all have the same bug inside of us.

[@techniqueswithtodd]

#1 You should have bought a mid engined porsche

[@realdata6116]

Can you do a 928?

[@Adamoda14]

‘The good transmission?’ Must mean the one built by Porsche.

[@TypeTuber]

Queen examples “only” mentioning cars and bids? There’s a couple other places. Probably. Sponsored? Master Doug in your ear?

[@fcpeuro-media]

As any other enthusiest we parouse all our options as mentioned forums, FB marketplace, C&B, BaT, Hagery Classifieds, Your Neighbors yard!

[@brettmills2470]

lol, do everything! No big deal! 😂

[@althunder4269]

Why are these things so expensive? There are millions of them around and they aren't particularly great cars.

[@NewpsBeach22]

You’ve obviously never owned one. “They aren’t particularly great cars” is one of the dumbest comments I’ve ever seen. There’s nothing else like them. And there aren’t a million of them. There are a million water cooled 996’s and beyond (if you even know what that means). Leave the air cooled classics to the big boys and stick with your Kia.

[@jmsjms296]

@@NewpsBeach22 The fan has been hit... Man, don't take it so seriously: chill!

[@keithmiller5913]

A superficial inspection that just touches on the peripherals 😢. Start with the serious core issues. Structural rot and accident damage. Then compressions, and oil pressure when hot. These are serious issues $$$$$ to put right and are what define a good car from bad. Brakes, suspension bushes etc etc are cheap to rectify in comparison. A bent or rotted car or one down on power or oil pressure would cause me to walk away. Not these peripheral issues such as brake calipers or arb bushes!!!😮

[@dfe8286]

When the engines goes out it will become a lawn ornament

[@ronbelanger4113]

Want a 911, or have a 911, bring money for upkeep.

[@bourbontraveler]

I’ve owned a few air cooled stay away unless you have a LOT of extra money There is always something, unless of course you don’t use it My guess is there is at least 10 grand of repairs on this car

[@NewpsBeach22]

So what? Once they’re done, they’re the best drive on the road. I own a 997.2 Turbo S and a 930 Turbo. I’ll take the 930 all day if I had to pick.

[@Nevoexpo]

EVERTYTHING? Does that mean learning how to make the income required to buy too?? 😜

[@fcpeuro-media]

Thats for a future video 😂

[@david05111]

So basically $15k worth of work lol

[@hendrikhanso]

First

[@Johnathan_Waters]

Great video about what to check on...well pretty much any old car. The presenter is kind of annoying though.

[@wildwest5436]

So pretty much replace the car.

[@JoesephBidon]

All old "classic" 911s are money pits. The older the car the deeper the pit.

[@realdata6116]

The 911 is the poor mans 928

[@iHelmster]

If it leaks ill just Ls swap it

[@fcpeuro-media]

Its a simple math equation really. 😁