Porsche 944 and sports car buyer's guide #1

[@alexratchford9587]

I’m 18 and bought a roller 944 with some body damage for 340$. Luckily the interior is perfect except for the dash which is normal. I’ve spent about $2,500 so far and just got it running and driving. Still have a minor issue with the engine but I love it so much!!! **did all the work myself**

[@remy333]

Alex, your car looks great assuming it’s the one in your avatar. I’ve got a red 84. Also have some cracks on the dash. But will eventually remove it and use the 3M repair and resurfacing kit.

[@alexratchford9587]

shin_jeremy_333 Thanks, that’s her! I also plan to do that with my dash eventually. The real damage is on the quarter panel which is half fixed just have to do the rest. I also had to weld a new door frame on because it was rusted out. My last thing to fix is it sounds like there is a bolt or something rattling around in the cam area so I gotta figure that out.

[@P1983sche]

Nice, would like to see it.

[@SamplesDan]

Hell yeah brother!

[@PayDro415]

Alex Ratchford I’ve literally been looking to buy this car for several weeks now any chance you could give me some tips on where to find a nice one all of them but I’m finding are around five grand

[@heanigan]

whenever I watch a video of yours, I'm always impressed with how much you listen to and rely upon your students knowledge and experience

[@mrbobsshow]

Hell yea I agree 100 percent

[@P1983sche]

He’s a REAL teacher, real teachers care.

[@austycup]

Bought an 83 for 1k and restored it and bought a 89 for 600$ with bbs rims, all it needed was a fuel line... love them

[@saketnaik1]

Yo where'd you get one for so cheap m

[@supercarowners]

I am a Software professional with only PC assembling hardware experience. I recently bumped into a 71 year old guy who is not able to restore a barn find Porsche 924. So I decided to take the challenge. KZbinrs like you and a couple of DIY car guys gave me confidence that I can do it. Your journey in the car industry is always my inspiration. Just took delivery of the Porsche 924. It is a rolling chassis with matching engine and some parts. I am joining coach building and welding classes to restore it. I think I should start sharing my journey in KZbin. Fingers crossed!!

[@bigfridge1517]

How is it doing now?

[@supercarowners]

@@bigfridge1517 it is registered and driving absolutely amazing. Poor man's hobby car.

[@bigfridge1517]

@@supercarowners Damn man, I am 19 and my dream is to do the same thing as you have, I know too little about cars mechanically speaking though :(

[@Wolfehart]

@@supercarowners Ey man can you post you driving it and put the link here?

[@rrassoc]

2 years after watching this video for the 1st time, I finally pulled the trigger. I originally intended on buying an early model to fix up, but my research lead me to a 3L S2. Thanks for all you do, Casey!

[@kenschue9345]

Thanks Mr. Casey I have been on the hunt for a guards red 944 preferably with the early dash, but I'm not picky. This will surely help me for when I go looking for my first car!

[@vikingman4614]

Pete's carport youtube channel has a guard red 944.

[@remy333]

I’ve got an early dash Guards Red 1984 with black interior. 100% the best color combo!!! Good luck finding one.

[@crosisofborg5524]

Most people want the later dash. You should have no problem finding an early dash.

[@---cr8nw]

When buying a used car, those "extra" lug nuts often mean there is a locking lug nut on each wheel. Make sure to get the key, if that's the case.

[@stitch2k1]

Don't sweat it if they are OEM ones on the Porsche. You can unlock them with a screwdriver.

[@jergervasi3331]

Looking to finally buy a 944 Turbo this weekend, after wanting one for 36 years. Thanks for all the videos, and the refreshing attitude.

[@cruelstudios798]

Did u ever end up buying one😊

[@jergervasi3331]

@@cruelstudios798 Yes! I bought the one I went to see that weekend, a 1986 944 Turbo in Guards Red. It needs a TON of cosmetic work, and the door locks, wipers, A/C, etc… are all messed up, etc etc etc… but it’s mechanically great. Lindsey Racing 270 kit, it’s a HOOT to drive! Thanks!

[@popperbits]

It makes me smile hearing the 944 being praised as such a great car, I still remember when it was introduced it was considered such a turd in the Porsche lineup

[@ivancamacho1437]

a lot of people keeps calling them "the poor´s man Porsche" :(

[@zman1998b]

But it looks so good

[@jpdp3339]

@@zman1998b +1 even after 30 years

[@saketnaik1]

@@ivancamacho1437 hahah yeah not so "poor" anymore 😔 thought I could afford one for a while

[@glow9999]

@@ivancamacho1437 a poor man’s Porsche was the Mazda RX7.. back in those days.

[@pray4mysynths]

Videos like these create value for the 944.

[@richardcooney7259]

Well played, sir. Good purchase, I'm stoked for you! Tyler, respect for rockin the 944/ski rack combo. So much Euro....

[@1001mugsy]

Casey, probably one of the best videos you have ever done. Simple yet very thorough, informative, and entertaining. More please with each car. Hats off from the great white north with the same 944.

[@A9XXC]

Great video, best commentary I've seen on a 944. you obviously have knowledge and passion for them. Very balanced comments, loved it. I love the 944, had 7 over 14 years, first was an Alpine White '83, but on cookies, currently have 3.x S2s (1990 Coupe in white, a red '91 coupe - my wifes daily driver and a '91 cobalt blue cabriolet). I do have a few points though :) They do rust badly in the sills (rockers), the bottom of the front wings (fenders) and behind the rear wheels, in UK it is extremely rare to find rust free ones, but that is down to our climate and the amount of salt we use.... the replacement struts do not delaminate the hatch glass/frame , its twisting it by pushing it down on one side that does it, made worse with new struts because the opposite side resists more, so there is more twist - always push from the centre....but as the power for the heated rear window and the interior lights go through the struts, you have to make sure the right type are used fitted the right side and the right way round.... There is a small breather from the cam cover to the air box that should be removed and capped off as per a Porsche Service Bulletin from about 1986. Blowing compressed air down the sun roof drain holes can blow the flexi hoses off the metal bits and reattaching is not fun, also there drains in the front corners too. fine wire is a better method, slower but safer.....Also there is a drain from the filler area that connects into that corner's sunroof drain with a Y piece that regularly seems to be disconnected, - smell of fuel after a fill up??? But overall a very good review of the 944 and I'm the Porsche Club GB 944 Register Secretary Cheers Mike Pollock

[@frankarmstrong5208]

Just joined. Wealth of information on the Porsche 944. Looking to buy my first one. Always wanted one since I was 21. Now 54, it's time for me to get one. Great videos

[@m10653]

With the drain holes you need to be a bit careful if you use compressed air to blow them out. There are small connectors that can pop off inside of the car if you blow too much pressure though them. (think they are t fittings). I tend to use weed eater wire to clean them out.

[@kondor99999]

Got a beautiful example (1986, 27k miles) a couple months ago and I enjoy driving it more than my 2018 BMW M6. I love that it doesn’t have a cupholder. It’s a real sports car like they don’t make anymore.

[@jeremymtc]

Nice! Pretty useful and thorough overview! It might be noted that there should be a plastic battery cover, and it's always good to check that the battery hold-down clamps are present because the positive terminal can contact and arc on the underside of the hood pretty easily. Also the factory air compressor for the spare is equipped in an integrated ABS plastic clamshell case, but they are frequently non-op and replaced with something else.

[@fredbobberts5753]

Definitely glad to see you back in the 944 saddle again, Casey, so much passion for these cars. It’s crazy to enjoy them so, but I do, too.

[@You_Already_Know]

I’d love to have a coffee with this guy. Truly passionate! He gave me chills thinking about actually buying an old car and fixing it up.

[@aboutit9184]

The old BMWs (up to e90 I believe) have also the same power steering reservoir. Each and every single of them does have traces of the fluid seeping - the caps on them don't have any o-ring to seal.

[@rexracer7192]

Next to driving my old 944, my favorite thing about it is the smell of the interior; it still has that unique porsche smell in it.

[@marty9248]

Check the hollow spaces for rust behind the ventilation grilles in your doors ans door frames. Also check for cracks under the battery. If there are cracks, then water is able to accumulate in the hollow space underneath and do some serious damage. Check the cable harness for the starter and generator, they get hot (exhaust area) and disintegrate (even in their protective sleeve) after 30+ years. The fuel lines in the engine compartment of a 944 should be checked for cracks, fuel can drip on the exhaust manifold. Replace the aluminium fuses for brass ones. 924's have a thicker zinc layer on the body compared to 944's. 924's have a non-interference engine compared to 944's and are somewhat easier in maintenance, lots of space for belts etc.

[@thorandmoljnir]

Great info. I've bought dozens of cars over the years and your points are all valid. The one I like the most is make sure you start the car cold.

[@howardwoolley926]

When you repair the oil cooler you should change the passenger side engine mount as it softens with age from the leaking power steering pump oil the leaks with these is usually the hoses/ connection, great show my one is a 944S

[@jbrayman78]

This video never gets old, and was super useful when I bought my 944 a few years ago! Just sent it to a buddy who is thinking of buying one. Keep up the amazing work Casey, and hope to meet you at the 944 Fest in 2023 (we missed you this year; or was that you flying over in the chopper Friday PM!?) 😎

[@ScottJ175]

That is a very, very nice example and obviously well loved. My preference would be to keep the Porsche script seats. More for nostalgia rather than snobbery though. It just screams my 80s teen years at me.

[@ZakTheRipper18]

My first car was an '84 944. I had it for about 11 years. I had no idea how to really take care of it properly, but I learned a few things along the way. I drive an STi now, and while I love it, I still miss the Porsche.

[@patrickfarah6765]

Hi Casey, That is the correct tire inflator for cars prior to mid-85 and that cardboard box is the holy grail. Just about every one is destroyed so yours appears to be quite nice.

[@LaneyMatthews]

I watched 16 candles when I was like 9 and this has been my dream car for years now. This is going to be my first purchase of a car of my own .

[@anthonyrozada1980]

Thank you. I have a 1986 944 Turbo, pristine. Everything works, including the clock, cigarette lighter, A/C, no dash cracks and original Blaupunkt stereo..

[@NoahPly]

Noooo poor Tyler and the notorious rear hatch glass delamination. May it be easy and cheap to fix 🙏

[@jaminwalton4223]

I’ve just started to save for a 944, cool to see your also in Ohio , and glad to hear the galvanized body’s don’t rust, although wish you would have taken more time looking underneath the car at the suspension but maybe we can save that for another video, keep up the great work.

[@SparkyGage]

Power Steering Fluid: Valvoline synthetic PS fluid with stop leak fixed a weepy leak in my XJ6 over the course of a year. I would top it off once a month and I think I used about 4 bottles but over time I was needing to add less and less. It's been over 6 months since I needed to add any. Thanks for the tour! High mileage cars rock!

[@A9XXC]

944s don't used PAS fluid in their system, it takes ATF, similar I know but....

[@markchip1]

UNLESS you have experience, or a good amount of knowledge about a particular model, join the forums and dig through them to learn the fundamentals before you start looking at cars to buy!!

[@hawkerjet]

When I was 15 my dad got me a red 1987 944 Porsche with tan leather interior, 44k miles, and 16” phone dial wheels. Had it for approximately 5 years into college. Throughout that time probably put $6k into to fix some dents on the car and of course maintenance. Had some corrosion issues from storage on the engine area, hydraulic leak on the clutch, but otherwise it was a great car. 8 valve 4 cylinder engine so they aren’t fast by any means. But man was it fun to drive. Best handling car of the year in 1987. Recommend 86’ or higher models due to some changes that were made if anyone is looking for one still. They appear to keep going up in price though!

[@laughingskullinc]

I love my 944!

[@blindaceg]

I loved mine too and unfortunately lost it being a dumbass. I hope someone picked it up from the impound auction for less than I paid for it and has been taking care of it.

[@tonyromano2391]

Thanks Casey, great video. Love my 944 as well but it has broken my heart a few times as I have put a lot of money into it. I'm hanging in there though thanks to your amazing videos.

[@fredbobberts5753]

Tony they always cost more than you think they will. But the pain of that is fleeting while the joy of having the car running is present every day.

[@johnnelson5083]

That coverlay dash cover, if you pull up the dash speaker grill will be held down nicely once you put the coverlay down, then put on the speaker cover to hold it in place in the center. I had one for about 20 years. Its a fun to drive money pit.

[@hilanddoug]

I had an '86 944 turbo, aka 951, with white Fuchs that looked similar to your white NA. I miss that car so much....

[@Hunsickergt]

Just picked her up last week, right around the corner from my house. All original, 60k miles, everything works, including the ac, which is sweet in Florida......even the dome light works.....

[@Porvetteracing]

The drains for the sunroof and the rear hatch locks ends upp in the compartments behind the rear wheels. Its standard to get moisture down there. Also regarding the sunroof you have 2 drains in the front corners that also clogg up.

[@SportsCarAdvisors]

Great video, thanks. I didn't hear you mention that they are "interference" motors - valves occupy same space as piston, thus the importance of timing - which you did mention timing belts / cam / balance. Also useful to mention that the back glass is apparently very expensive to replace (if it cracks etc), something to be aware of cost-wise. Your car is a nice color combo white with white fuchs, really great find also with the Porsche script seats! Useful to mention, your car appears to be an early car (pre 1985.5) with the early dash. 1985 mid year Porsche made important updates "85 and a half" with updated interiors and other non-cosmetic updates that are worth mentioning in a buyer guide.

[@gtrlad8131]

We have a naturally aspirated s2 manual 944 in concourse condition in torquoise blue with cream interior and can’t get over how low you sit

[@bartoszkuligowski942]

Awesome video, I bought an 85 khaki 944 1 year ago and I've been working ever since I've been doing interior and mechanical, I've replaced too many things to count, just today I got it on wheels and I can't wait to get it driving, I need to finish up some interior issues and I'm ready to go!

[@recyclespinning9839]

The design on the body on these 944s, still look good. 924s included !

[@thatfine44]

Was looking at this exact car when looking for my first 944, but ended up getting one with cookie cutter wheels. Thanks for the video and can't wait for more! Definitely will help since I'm doing all the work myself and doing a whole head gasket job!

[@davidshaw164]

I have seen 2 of your videos... and I love them!!! Also you kinda remind me of Mike Rowe

[@ralleyquattro]

Those Fuchs look so good!

[@RadekPogoda]

Love the Tyrell-styled six-wheel kart :)

[@nickbrock1940]

I love that term, "Keep it under your hat"

[@alexmcwhirter4131]

Nice job on the video I’ve just bought a 1997 peugeot 106 xn to fix up with my dad and have as my first car. I’m 14 and yes I paid for it with my own money

[@kewlhunter7333]

Although many blame struts for delamination I believe it's more likely to happen from closing it unevenly with one hand as that puts a twisting force through frame, that the struts don't. I replaced my struts 10 years ago and they are still strong but I always close the hatch evenly with 2 hands. Something to think about as I noticed you shut it with one hand. Great video and very helpful for new buyers, I'm sure 👍

[@slyteen2197]

Like the car and the plane at the start of the video. I work for the company that evolved from Ruston in Lincoln.

[@robbchastain3036]

I so relate to fans of affordable 944s and project 944s, and I commend you, Casey, for being the pied piper of this club. And while I have never owned one, I did, when I was a soldier at Fort Myer and the Pentagon, buy a new VW GTI in '84 and it was total fun, sporty and sure-footed and affordable and not all that far from a 944. Or at least that's the way I saw it and it was close, actually, a Volkswagen with a Porsche engine.

[@flogmarp82]

about to be 18 and move out, ready to buy a 944 once i get some more money i'm so excited

[@rafayaziz3324]

Nice, yup that's the original early air compressor, rare seeing one with it's original car lol. This car is a good find imo!

[@aarondennis4561]

Couldn’t have made this video at a better time. I’m going to look at a 86 944 Friday.

[@7771ham]

Aaron Dennis did you buy it? I’m going to look at one Saturday for 8k with 69k miles. Mint condition interior and great condition exterior.

[@aarondennis4561]

blazin_doob_420 77717771joshisamazing yes I did. These are great cars!

[@toad0720]

Got 3 of these cars. 85.5, 86, and 87. 2 Autos, one Stick.

[@gaspasser]

I used to own a 1988 Silver Rose Turbo S. Great car. Wish I still had it. Great video. I predict great things for you on you tube!!!

[@bjrnrs]

Im really in love with my 89 944 S2. Such a Great and underrated car. Really enjoyable to drive.

[@rcpmac]

Not sure on the VW/Porsche but on VW/Audi, the moonroof drains are plumbed with plastic hose. While air pressure CAN open the line be aware that you might disconnect them in the process leading to chasing problems behind the pillar coverings and beyond . Consider vacuum instead. Also good to pour a few ounces of water in the drains to both test and to locate where the exit hose is. I believe there are drain holes in the 4 corners.

[@tommorgan8053]

I went out to buy a 944s and came home with a Boxster S, both are incredible values and great cars. Boxster owners also don’t always get the Porsche love either. I notice 944 and other Boxster drivers always wave back, 911...almost never.

[@P1983sche]

Oh man, I love those script seats...

[@laxbroflow151]

My first Car Porsche 944 1985.5 Guards Red, still have it got me so many babes including my stellar fiancé

[@stanthehandyman3719]

Im going to look at an '84 944 with 28 k original miles So says the seller and I found your video very helpful in what I should look for... Wish me luck.

[@jesslloydjansen]

Funny you mentioned the Ducati kickstand. I totally did that to my buddys brand new 996 in 2001. I felt like such a jack ass. But great 944 video. I can't wait to finally own one.

[@remy333]

Casey! That made in Canada compressor IS the original compressor. I have the same. The plastic on mine broke recently because I dropped it and the hinges area cracked.. so I unscrewed it from the plastic housing and stuck it in a nice little men’s travel leather bag. Still works great.

[@aprillovesgolf7042]

Mines an 87 in mint shape. Same outside color. Real beautiful car.

[@alexandersands7930]

Casey, thank you for giving me the confidence to buy my first 944!! I picked up an 83 Euro Spec gemini gray w/ 47k miles. Created myself a checklist using this vid and the seller was like.. "hmm.. he did his homework..." ;-) Max respect!

[@adrianjesus4040]

After 2 years how has the car been holding up? How’s the maintenance and maintenance price? Is it relatively expensive ?

[@adrianjesus4040]

What checklist did you use if you don’t mind lol

[@vestigeconceptgallery4858]

@@adrianjesus4040 The checklist in the video..

[@vestigeconceptgallery4858]

@@adrianjesus4040 Just saw this comment... I've had a mixed experience with the 944 in the last 2 years, but nothing that I have not been able to work through. A lot of basic things can be found online. However, I can say that it has been at least $2K per year in maintenance, and has exceeded the potential resale value of the vehicle... good luck!

[@capedcomics]

Awesome video Casey! Your Porsche videos are my faves. One day I hope to get myself one.

[@dirk954]

Wow! Outstanding Video. What do You think about the 968?

[@pala23mj]

I am currently in the market for a 944, these videos are great to help me along the way. Unfortunately I’m not finding these great deals. I have found one 1983 none turbo with 99,000 kilometres in what appears to be minti condition for about 8000.00. I am going to go check it out next week. It’s in a classic gold colour.

[@rcpmac]

Currently on Seattle Craigslist. Same color as this one with phone dial wheels like that red one. “I have for sale, a 1988 Porsche 944, 5 speed manual. This car has 145k miles on it, everything is stock from 88 besides the stereo deck and protectors. The engine and transmission run super strong and smooth without hesitation. There is some rock chips and a miniscul dent on the driver side quarter panel. Interior is near perfect with a small crack on the dash. There is a small crack in the windshield. Other than that it is a perfectly smooth running and looking classic. Serious inquiries only. $9,500”

[@danielferraro59]

love your videos! i’m Daniel from England and had a 944 lux for my first car. i have only just sold that at 38 and i now have the 944 turbo and a 986 S and i love love the 944 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@donaldclary846]

Promise you'll always have a 944, so I have something interesting to watch??

[@joncaseyclary]

Hello Donald. My family name is clary. Don’t see that too often. From Virginia. Best wishes.

[@donaldclary846]

@@joncaseyclary Don't see that EVER. Usually there is an "e" thrown in there somewhere. I'm from Illinois originally.

[@CollinTiptonMusic]

My dad just got a 1985 944 and its super fun. I kinda wanna get my own now for first car lol.

[@josecortez5213]

Big 4 banger with a German engineered counterweighted crankshaft. I am a fan.

[@zestydude87]

I've had my 944 turbo for 10 years now. Only thing I've had to fix was the alternator...it's been very reliable and I still love driving it.

[@maikelnait4495]

My favorite Porsche model.

[@free-birdrocker8809]

I have an 86 951 and its pretty good. The gent I purchased it from spend lots of money on it, and just wanted to spend money on his classic cars. I got a good deal, It does need an alternator so thats a nightmare. I put some cv half shafts on it, 4 tires, a rad flush, fresh timing belt-balance shaft belts. Tune up, rear trans-axel is making a little grinding noise, its going to be the syncros, so thats later. It runs great, drives great, starts the 1st time, and its a fun little car...

[@Gozar111]

I have a final edition 944 Turbo and a 928 S4. I drive the 944 far more than the 928 because it’s a fun drive that doesn’t feel dated at all!

[@Evocati-Augusti]

I found one that was garaged in the Hamptons', an 83 ,low miles,showroom condition...man I miss the feel of just closing the doors...But I got a 83 911SC after I sold it.

[@johnmoser2689]

Do a patch on the cracked dash and then flock the dash like a rally car/ track car

[@stephenmichalchuk1584]

Well done Casey!. LThe car is in great shape hopefully won't blow up like one of mine did recently (Timimg belt at idle). I'm looking forward to seeing the repair on the hatch cover. The one on the 1985.5 has been broken for 20 years. Dad never woried about it!

[@PunkRockStreetRacer]

Fun fact. If you want to know if a car has been smoked in, smell the trunk. Not a guarantee, but my second car the seller claimed it had never been smoked in, trunk told a different story. I ended up a smoker myself a couple years later, but that's neither here nor there.

[@samtheram13]

I've rebuilt one of these with my dad, he got t bonded after dropping me off at moms, the guy was going almost 70 and hit him on the driver's side engine block towards the door. He only had a broken leg and ribs. Extremely safe cars as well 1984 944**

[@nigellacey559]

Informative and entertaining

[@Bama3728]

I've been a Porsche fan most of my life. It all started with Mark Donohue and the 917/30. This is a different type of comment though. I was watching you Porsche Buyers Guide episode. At the beginning, you were standing close to the yellow & white aeroplane. Underneath the wing appears to be a Tyrell T6 go-kart. The T6 was one of my favorite F-1 cars. Would it be possible to post some photos of it or maybe do a video? I'm not sure if a request is appropriate, but it never hurts to ask. Anyway, I love you videos, and thank you!

[@TrashTierOperator]

Black, red, or white crinkle coat paint looks classy in engine bays. But other than that bright colors are just gotti

[@johnmoser2689]

Great looking 944 love those Fuchs and the white and black is great

[@StephanTheDane]

My dad had a customer bringing his white 944 in for service, in the sparewheel well there was a lil 80s "friday night snack kit" when the owner wanted to get that wolf of wallstreet feeling XD

[@michelveit8238]

i love these cars but their prices start getting inflated here in germany. i was looking for one just out of curiosity like 1 1/2 years ago and there were nice ones for 4k. now that i have those 4k, i have been looking again and the cheapest one i can find is 4k with cracked windows, wrong wheels, no papers and it doesn't start. decent ones go for 8k.

[@Daniel-lv8ze]

Those rear wheels are meaty. Really fill out the wheel wells nicely.

[@jasonpickett5553]

Check the firewall for cracks if a manual 944. The had really thin firewalls and tend to crack from the pressure of the pedal. Sometimes they are hard to see but if you take a flashlight and look inside where the clutch pedal mounts you can see some if it has them.

[@CountryCarReviews]

I replaced my hatched seal and shocks and glass delaminated 😔

[@cspaceinfinity0116]

You didn't ues porch approved windshield fluid you need there approved blinker fluid

[@XBullitt16X]

Glad you found the 944 you wanted. P.S I didn't realise these had 80s VW handles, I hate those. I always remember struggling to opening them and them getting stuck on the Jettas and other vws my dad used to work on as a mechanic haha

[@xcocoloco00x]

Thanks for this video I’m looking these beauties , and and wanted to learn more of them can wait to see upcoming projects of this 🔥🔥

[@harryhoudini3656]

Another way to check for coolant in the oil is the dipstick. Is the level too high when you know it shouldn’t be? Your engine is manufacturing oil if its too high. Also the 93 corvette hood prop is easy to break if you don’t pull the lower shaft cover toward the shaft.

[@blue-tb2fd]

You've probably figured it out by now but the black wheel nuts you found around 30min look like the locking ones that some of these have