Q: My 1986 930 Turbo has an oil pipe which supplies oil to the turbo and it has started seeping. It looks like a bear to replace it and it is beyond my mechanical limits. What you recommend? – Jeff
A: Well the purist would say, replace it, “it’s a Porsche”. I would tend to agree if you planned to remove the entire intake plenum sometime soon. As with many 930 services, that line is packed in really tight. So let’s put it in perspective.
In the world of Porsche we categorize and prioritize seepage and leakage. Otherwise, it can drive you crazy. Viewing a pristine and oil free older Porsche was always rare. On the other hand, dampness that you see may have taken a number of years to accumulate. So when should you worry about it? My suggestion is to monitor it after a proper cleaning of the affected area. Another practice of “due diligence” involves fluorescent leak detection dye. For seepage or subtle leaks, dye is hard to beat. It can be time consuming when you consider the angles involved in viewing the various oil pipe and hose fittings.
Now suppose the rubber hose is actually leaking. The pragmatist in me would opt for Aeroquip braided stainless steel hose and four quality clamps. Properly done, this is an excellent repair when it is cleanly performed. Aeroquip hose is used on Porsche race cars so you know than it’s durable. The four clamps just make me feel better. I don’t trust a vital or safety related pressure hose to one simple hose clamp. Clamps are inexpensive, engines aren’t, and I am not a gambler. – MC