[Porsche_Driving_Club]

Hi all. I own a 87 944 turbo with 216,000 miles. I need to replace the Front wheel bearings and struts. How much should a job like this cost at a shop to fix? Is this a job that could be done at home?

[michael lang]

I'm not a 951 owner so I'm speaking from the cuff but why wouldn't you attempt to do it @ home? It can't be that hard. There are enough of us here that give guidance, loaner tools if needed, and maybe even come to help. You might also want to try Pelican for the 944 owners forum if you haven't already. Those guys are are a little hard core for me but at least you will get the straight deal from them unlike some other web forums. Good luck!!

Mike

[APKhaos]

There is very little that can't be done if you have the right tools, a place to work, and the time to do a little prep reading. Shops around here book time at around $80/hour. Given the 944 front wheels bearings and seal set is around $50, you can soon be several hundred dollars ahead of the game by doing it yourself.

The bearings are a snap. Pick a time when the spousal unit is away [or pick a tolerant spousal unit]. You will have each hub in the oven twice, and your new bearings in the freezer once.

The struts are a snap to remove and replace. You might want to think about taking the removed struts to a show to have the inserts replaced. Only reason I say that is safety. Compressing springs with the typical DIY two bar screw compressors can be dangerous unless you are pretty careful, and having a spring fly can be a life altering experience.

In either case, you can count on local support from the Dorki.

Best place to start reading is Clarks Garage Click on Shop Manual. You will find both jobs in the index.

Read that first, then tell us what you've decided to do.

[mroberts]

I've got a Paragon ride height kit that might be a good upgrade for you:

http://www.paragon-products.com/prod...944arhk-nr.htm

+ the adjustment spanner

May as well put it on

If you are replacing shocks, do the upper strut mounts - about $10 a piece

[Porsche_Driving_Club]

Thank you for the suggestions. I currently have little mechanical experieince. I am extremely knowledgable of enginnering design concerning cars. This job just might be the excuse I need to learn how to do it myself.

I have a garage in Centreville, VA. Is any one welling to assist? I would be forever grateful.

[Porsche_Driving_Club]

I read the suggested shop manuel section from Clark's Garage. The procedure doesn't look that difficult. I saw the section about the inner wheel bearing replacement procedure, but I did not see anything about the outer wheel bearing. Shouldn't there be more procedures?

[cmartin]

The outer falls out when you remove the retaining nut, piece of cake.

[APKhaos]

The outer roller cage falls out, and so does the inner bearing cage. Both races are a very tight press fit, and stay in place. Drop the hub in an oven bag, and bake at 300 degree for 20 minutes or so, then gently tap the races out with a brass or Aluminum drift. Easy peasy.

I'd be happy to help, but it will depend on the date. Would be much easier to do it at my garage, but the car is going to be down for a few days which the struts are done. I won't do struts here - too risky without a decent spring compressor.

[Porsche_Driving_Club]

Thank you Tony. I have another car to drive for a few days. No problem. I would appreciate the help. I'm excited to be working on the car. I am open to any dates. I am running an Italian car event on May 22nd. I would like the car by then. I'm also about to post a Porsche event on Dorkiphus on June 5th.

Thank you

[APKhaos]

Here is a good option for the strut replacement:


Spring Removal and Replacement: This is a great opportunity to upgrade the springs and/or replace the upper strut mounts. Now you can send us your strut with all hardware attached and we will perform the complete process of conversion and spring installation with your new or used hardware. Some options include the Weltmeister Sport Springs for the 944 and the H&R Sport Springs for the 944S2 and 968. Also, now would be a good time to replace those Upper Strut Mounts with Original Equipment or Aftermarket Adjustable Camber Plates. Please call 800-200-9366 or Email if ordering this option - we'd like to make sure you get all the parts you need, and none that you don't. Add this option to your order for only $20/set.

From Paragon Product, who are a highly regarded supplier, and extremely knowledgeable about these cars. Call the number, talk to Jason.