Hello Rennlist. I'm Michael. I'm from Lancaster County, PA and I've been a lurker, on and off since 09. (Under a different ID and email). My experience with Porsche cars is limited to what was learned during a short ownership of an '87 924S. I look forward to meeting and learning from you all, and I hope to contribute positively to the Rennlist community. I'm looking to purchase a 996 within the next several weeks Today I met with the owner of a very early '99 (build date of '98). After contacting an independent Porsche mechanic about another car that I viewed ('02), the shop owner suggested I contact one of his other customers who is also selling a 996. After driving the car for about half hour, and extensively examining the car and a large binder of service records, most everything seems on the up. I did notice a couple things I need you collective knowledge about. The engine temp was slightly over center on the gauge. It never spiked or seemed like an issue, despite a mix of heavy in town traffic and seeing over 100mph a few times on the highway, and a cruise speed around 70-75mph. Should I be worried that the temp needle isn't at 190? As I performed a visual inspection something that caught my eyes were wet spots on both coolers. The damp spot has me concerned, but there was no visible leaking or fluid. The AC also blew cold after about 30 seconds or so. Should I be concerned over the damp looking spots on the coolers? Thanks for the help.
Discussion summary
YOUR RESEARCHIntroduction and needing advice.
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Normal for the temp to be to the right of center.
A member just posted a super nice looking 03 Targa on here. LN IMS done.
The damp spot may just be from washing or it's last trip in the rain. Only way to say for sure is to clean it out. As for temps, it's not likely anything to worry about. If water pump hasn't been replaced, it might be a good preventative measure, along with new thermostat. Pretty inexpensive and good prevention.
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