Noob has problems = questions.

[pantera2075]

Hello all, Phil in UK.

I've just bought a very cheap 98 986 2.5 manual.

I bought it unseen knowing it had problems - but like I say, it was very cheap.

It has done 67000 miles, but only 1500 in the last six years. It has been stolen once and written off twice.

Its orange. No, let me put it another way, its ORANGE!!

Anyway, after a day or two cleaning and checking stuff, here's what I have found:

Front right radiator is leaking. Looks due to age - the lowest two cross pipes are swelled and corroded. I've ordered a new rad.

There is an oil leak onto the exhaust header around the rear right cylinder. It stinks of burning oil and when I took off the engine cover I could see smoke rising - but in a regular pattern like a drip. Is this likely just to be a re-seal of the valve cover? Will I need special tools?

The power steering is very noisy at the front of the car - I thought the pump was on the engine - whats going on?

Power windows dont work. RHS stuck up, push button and whirring noises etc, but I can see the cable has snapped. LHS stuck half down, push button, nothing, and no noise.

Apart from the above, i'm quite pleased with it generally.

I'm absolutely fine with wrenching and electricals so it won't be going into a shop unless absolutely necessary.

Any input on the above appreciated.

Thanks

[timbo]

Well done you for taking on a project, as far as the oil leak is concerned I would be inclined to look at the spark plug tube seals first as this is a common source of oil leeks. Rads and window cables are readily available on the net. Best of luck.

[pantera2075]

Quick update:

New rad fitted.

Spark plug seals fitted - no more leaks.

Passenger window fixed - by plugging it in.

Other bits I've now found:

Needs two front tyres.

One rear wheel bolt has snapped off and been replaced by what looks like a 944 nut glued in the hole.

I pulled it into my garage and my Pantera bit it - I now need to fix 3 scratches on the drivers door.

And, because the drivers door seal doesn't fit, I've found that it has been heavily t-boned and fixed not very well. Oh dear.