Brakes S
With the exception of the early US spec Turbos, the S and Turbo used the 4 wheel disc set up. Many of the parts for this system are shared across a range of Porsches so spares are plentiful. Cars with the 4 discs are easily recognisable from the 5 lug pattern in the wheels.
Be aware though that, while the system is used on early 944s, parts are not a direct swap with later models.
The disc set up at the front is generally extremely reliable and over engineered for these cars. Discs do tend to wear on the front quicker than on an NA and can be prone to warping if used hard. When on the test run feel for judder in the pedal or vibrations through the wheel.
A range of pads and discs are available. Unless you intend to run your car on a track regularly, the road discs and pads are more than adequate. Indeed on many track days, the quality road discs and pads have often performed better.
The rears discs are of the type with a small handbrake drum inside. The rear discs don’t wear as rapidly as the front so the drum gets neglected. Check the handbrake works well and that the linkage runs freely. It’s not uncommon for them to not be services from one set of discs to another.
One of the consequences of the rear disc not being over-worked is that they can suffer from corrosion and pad glazing- especially in low mileage cars. The outer rim can become crusty, leading to rubbing squeaks from the rear. The pads can glaze and become unresponsive. Under normal braking, you do not feel it much but when you need the brakes most, you may not have all the braking force you need.
Servos are again tough little units. The master cylinders last ages without problems but internal seals can go. They are servicable on a bench with a cheap seal kit, available on exchange or even brand new. It depends upon your budget. Test the cylinder by pressing the pedal until it goes firm then holding for a minute. Any further movement and the seals are shot.
One big advantage of the 4 disc set up is that the bolt pattern for the wheels is more common than the NA. However, the offsets commonly available often require good quality spacers. If the car you are looking at doesn’t have the standard wheels, double check how they have been fitted. Poorly fitted spacers are a death trap.
