Advice On Oil Sweat At Rms

[sdemild]

I am looking to purchase a 2004 C4S with 12k miles. The car is exceptional with the single note from Porsche service advisor that there is a very minor oil sweat at RMS. In further discussion he said tech found oil around Bell housing which coudl either be RMS or Intermediate shaft. While this car has new 3 year warranty (Fidelity) the fact that this was found prior to warranty issuance by dealer has resulted in warranty company refusing to replace. Advsior said not a big deal to replace when clutch was done, however there is no clutch as it's a tiptronic. When queried about cost to relace seal he said major job involving droppping the engine with likely $4k price tag. I'm looking for advice as to whether I should run away or live with the "minor" leak uni it has to be repaired and have it done at an independent provider. I'd also liek to know if $4k for this work is a realistic number.

Thanks for your help.

[wvicary]

I personally wouldn't worry about it but as a buyer you're spoilt for choice. I also think the price quote is high and would recommend using a indy garage that is familiar with these vehicles.

[therock88]

Hi,

There are lots of these cars available and a buyer's market. If you are worried at all I would keep looking. The price seems very high to me, and I had my wife's done at the dealer for much less.

As a negotiation tool, you may offer them a little extra $ over what you are offering to pay and ask that it be repaired prior to purchase....Otherwise, I would keep looking. The reason you have the leak or

"sweating" is likely due to the low mileage. Seems to happen more frequently to garage queens that are left sitting a lot? Just a theory though.

Good luck!

DC

[Dharn55]

You don't have to drop the engine to do the RMS, just the trans. For a manual it is about 6-8 hours in and out (this is in my driveway on jack stands, with a lift in a shop it should be quicker). A tip might take an extra hour or so. An hour to take off the flywheel, do the RMS and reinstall the flywheel. If you in there I would do the LN IMS upgrade while you are at it. Another hour or two and the $600-$700 to LN for the part.

The $4,000 is crazy!! Even if was a manual and the clutch was being done that is way high.

Given that the warranty company is not covering the RMS I would do it and the IMS/LN upgrade as if anything happens to the car from this they are bound to deny the claim for a new engine. And that is the main point of having a warranty. When I think of this it might impact whether you really want to buy this car as the warranty is not so good if they are excluding the RMS.

[Dharn55]

If it is a Porsche dealer forget about the Fidelity warranty and get them to CPO it. They will have to fix the leak to get the CPO and it is better than the aftermarket warranty.

[sdemild]

Thanks to all who responded. This is really practical and great advice. I think I'll opt for a 997 instead.