I am looking at an 03 cab with 103k miles. I understand the RMS should be checked but not sure about how high miles affect the 996. I have an 86 cab with 275k, replaced clutch, shocks etc.. but it still runs great and doesn't burn oil any more tnhan it did when I bought it 14 years ago. Any advice/suggestions are appreciated.

Rex

 

If there are no visable signs of oil leaks I would say your RMS is still in good shape, the car has been driven so that helps. I would go ahead and get a pre-purchase inspection done, this will tell you what you need to know, also, have the do a rev report to see about any over revs. This is the 996's have problems when they are not driven. I'd say if the PPI comes out good and the price is right then it may not be a bad deal.
How much do they want for it?

I just bought an '03 C4S and couldn't be happier.

 

The IMS should be checked not the RMS. I would not anticipate simular maintenance requirements to your 86. Search forums for info.

 

Both IMS and RMS. With this kind of mileage, if there has been no IMS failure then it's more than likely ok. In order to chack you'll need to pull the filter apart to see if there are any signs of metal.

 

Thank you for the recomendations, they are asking 22,900.00

 

$22,900, not to bad, see if you can get hin down a bit more. What's the overall condition of the car? Like interior, body, etc..

Jim

 

Overall condidtion of the car is great, very nice interior and the exterior is very good as well.

 

Short of removing the IMS bearing, not sure how you would assess the condition. If you're willing to go that length then just factor in the ~$1,500 to get it replaced and be done with it (24,400 is still a good price for an 03 with an LNE IMS bearing).

 

That's correct, you'd have to remove the bearing to check, besides all the cost is in the labor. I had mine replace when I bought mine and did the RMS as well, the seal is only $45 so it makes sence to do it while your there. Look if the car runs strong, you like it, and the PPi comes out ok go for it! Keep in mind, the only person who has to like the car is you
If I dare, can I make one more suggestion, if you have the $$ to spend also put on the LNE screw on filter adapter, they provide better filtering, you use the NAPA Gold 1042 filter which has synthetic media and you get full filtering. Oh, also the magnetic drain plug, it all come in a kit from LNE.

 

I really appreciate the information.

 

You will hear lots of talk in these forums about IMS. Just know that the risk of failure is very, very low. Don't let it get in your head too much. Get a PPI, make sure you have good brakes, good tires and there is fresh oil. Then go have some fun!

 

Much appreciated, I should have got on this forum when I bought the 86 911 14 years ago. Thank you all for you suggestions.