Input Needed-Michigan Ferrari Owners | FerrariChat

Input Needed-Michigan Ferrari Owners

Discussion in 'North Central - USA (MI, IN, OH, KY, WV)' started by Marco0355, Jun 5, 2007.

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  1. Marco0355

    Marco0355 Karting

    Aug 22, 2005
    95
    GTA
    I'm going to check out an 87' Testarossa on Wednesday, and I have absolutely no experience with TR's. Can you guys give me some items to look out for? Here are specs:

    1987 Ferrari Testarossa
    Blue on Red Leather
    19000miles
    VIN # ZFFSG17A9H0071543
    Owner told me it's mechanically sound, runs strong, interior is mint, but the exterior needs some tlc....maybe just a good detailer to clean up the swirl marks and small scratches. He said it's not a show winner, but for a solid car that's going to be driven, this is the one.

    If by any chance someone who knows what to look for wants to come with me tomorrow at about 5pm, the car is about 10min from Livonia.

    Thanks in advance,

    Marco
     
  2. nthfinity

    nthfinity F1 Veteran

    Mar 21, 2005
    7,467
    South East MI
    Full Name:
    Isaac not Issac
    I'm up for checking it out with you, and grabbing some grub afterward. Can't say I know a lot about TR's... but Jeff (carguy) and Jerry (jerrari) both own them, and know them. I'm pretty sure Mo (modmaki) had a TR as well before the dino and 512 BBi
     
  3. boxerboy

    boxerboy Karting

    Dec 4, 2003
    89
    I can be available to help, have had a BB512 since 2001, a 246 GT before that. I've been through the Boxer mechanically. What you really need are receipts for the car and a maintenance history. If no receipts or maintenace history, I'd walk away. Too many good TR's available. Call me @ 313 304 1009 if you want my help.
    Dave
     
  4. modmaki

    modmaki Formula 3

    Sep 11, 2006
    1,054
    Michigan,USA
    Full Name:
    Mo Makki
    hey marco i had 89 tr never had a problem..didnt spent a dime on it...cant say that for my dino or boxer...both needing attention from day one...having said that i do believe there was an improvment after 87tr..as 88-89tr are better see if you can spend a couple of $$$$$ more might get a better car.ask any questions you want.........MO....p.s dave boxerboy is the expert....another P.S...i think tr's get a bad rap there good cars...the ferrari community if rought on them...excelent starter ferrari got my vote
     
  5. carguy

    carguy F1 Rookie

    Oct 30, 2002
    3,424
    Alabama (was Mich.)
    Full Name:
    Jeff
    Wow what a rare color combination! I'm assuming you have searched the fchat history and archives for information on this topic? Lots of info there. You should look for the following items:
    1. Maintenance history, receipts, check mileages at service times.
    2. Compare paperwork for parts replaced with what's on the car, look closely.
    3. Look for rust and corrosion at the bottom of the doors.
    4. Does the car have the jack kit, owners pouch and books, and took kit.
    5. Look at the wire harness for any odd splices or extra solenoids wired in.
    6. Look at the fuse panel and connectors for over-heated terminals, etc.
    7. Have the seats been redyed?
    8. Has the seat belt recall been done?
    9. I believe there was a water pump drive chain upgrade campaign for 1987.
    10. Look for evidence of paint work, nose jobs are common for TRs...
    11. Does everything work, AC, windows, lights, ....etc.
    12. Are the fluids clean and at the proper level, mainly engine oil? You can only check engine oil after warm-up, shut down and pull the dip stick.
    13. Is the rear window okay or cracked from improper jacking up of the car?
    14. The car should start easily after a few seconds of cranking, no pumping.
    15. Some smoke, just a puff, at start-up is normal, but it stops immediately.
    16. There should be no squeeks or rattles when driving.
    17. Clutch should engage smoothly, no chatter or shudder.
    18. Shifter will be notchy even when warm, but pretty decent. No grinding!
    19. Dash leather shrinkage is a common problem.
    20. Is it a US car or a Euro imported gray-market car? Check the VIN #.

    I'm sure I'm forgetting a hundred other items to check, but having a second pair of eyes looking really helps avoid your emotions over-riding your common sense. Just look everything over carefully, make notes and/or take pictures of everything, and do your homework. It may be a good solid car. Let us know how it goes please. And good luck.
     
  6. Marco0355

    Marco0355 Karting

    Aug 22, 2005
    95
    GTA
    Thanks for the feedback...I'm making sure to write down everything to look for, because I know when I get there I'll forget everything, and the only thing I'll be thinking is "It's a Ferrari....It's a Ferrari!!!"
     
  7. funshipone

    funshipone Formula Junior

    Jan 2, 2002
    618
    Harrison Twp. Mi. US
    Full Name:
    John Bicsak
    I support Boerboy statement no receipts or maintenance walk away unless real low low price. What is owner asking after looking over car would still suggest PPI before buying at good Ferrari shop.
    When I sold my 308 new owner was given every receipt with all paper work covering repairs.
    Presently looking for 360 spyder year 2000 red 6 speed half the fun is the hunt.
     
  8. modmaki

    modmaki Formula 3

    Sep 11, 2006
    1,054
    Michigan,USA
    Full Name:
    Mo Makki
    again dont know what your spending..but i did a simple search on ferrari market letter had some trs for about 65k years 89-90...earlier trs had some issues....dont rush there was aprox 7300 trs made...pick the right year and right car........MO
     
  9. modmaki

    modmaki Formula 3

    Sep 11, 2006
    1,054
    Michigan,USA
    Full Name:
    Mo Makki
    also i would stay away from odd colors...ok to owen tough to resell......MO
     

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