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Boxer DIY Level?

Discussion in 'Boxers/TR/M' started by Shark01, Oct 4, 2012.

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  1. Shark01

    Shark01 F1 Veteran

    Jun 25, 2005
    6,484
    #1 Shark01, Oct 4, 2012
    Keep going hot/cold on getting a Boxer vs a newer car. One of the perceived pluses is the ability to tackle most repairs/upgrades/restoration myself. But not knowing anything about the classic Ferrari world makes me hesitant, and possibly a moron.

    Used to do some work on late 60s Corvettes. On a scale of 1 (total disaster level of stupid) to 10 (master mechanic), I was a 3-4.

    On a Corvette, everything is known, dozens of manuals available, no problem getting any part (except special stuff like fuel inj units).

    So how much more difficult would a Boxer be?

    What are the challenges for DIY guys?
     
  2. fastradio

    fastradio F1 Rookie
    BANNED Professional Ferrari Technician

    Apr 26, 2006
    3,664
    New England
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    David Feinberg
    #2 fastradio, Oct 4, 2012
  3. BigTex

    BigTex Seven Time F1 World Champ
    Owner Rossa Subscribed

    Dec 6, 2002
    79,386
    Houston, Texas
    Full Name:
    Bubba
    #3 BigTex, Oct 4, 2012
    There are Boxer owners here that do their own "engine out" service..

    We have heart surgeons, too! :D :D :D

    It's a supercar of it's day.....
     
  4. Shark01

    Shark01 F1 Veteran

    Jun 25, 2005
    6,484
    #4 Shark01, Oct 6, 2012
    I guess I didn't explain this right. With a Corvette, even a novice shade tree can do pretty well because there are so many resources available. Dozens (hundreds?) of manuals, every part from multiple sources, no special tools, lots of help from enthusiasts.

    So if a Corvette is a "10" for available resources, what would a Boxer rank?
     
  5. Splitting Atoms

    Splitting Atoms Formula 3

    Sep 18, 2011
    1,557
    South Carolina
    Full Name:
    Eric
    #5 Splitting Atoms, Oct 6, 2012
    I have never owned a Boxer, but I have been reading posts on Ferrarichat and looking at Testarossas for about a year.

    It is a given that resources such as parts and literature would be more difficult to come by, but I don't see how maintaining one of these cars would be that much more difficult than a 60s corvette. The flat 12 engine is much different than a typical American V8 and you may need outside help for a rebuild. The transaxle has some differences too. I consider myself fairly capable mechanically. I have rebuilt manual transmissions and MG engines. I look forward to working on my first Ferrari. An “engine out” does not intimidate me. How comfortable are you with digging into the car? If you have to take the car to a knowledgeable mechanic for almost every issue, it will cost cubic dollars, from what I have read.

    I think the advice to "buy the best car you can afford" is appropriate when it comes to a Boxer.
     

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