Porsche Repair: 1960 Porsche 356B Coupe, personal guy, vw exhaust

Question
Dave,

Thanks for the prompt reply. I really appreciate your imput. This website is awesome. Thanks again.

I found a mechanic locally, who is highly reputable in old Porsche's. (a recent resident to the Midwest this was no easy find) His dad worked for a dealership for 40 years and once owned a 356 and still has some motor parts that will work in mine once I decided to rebuild the original motor.  Couple of areas of concern he mentioned.

I need to find a VW exhaust system that will fit under the rear body of the Porsche. My B has exhaust coming out of the bumper guards. The other is the whole issue of flywheel and starter. I am still operating on 6 volts. I haven't discussed this with my mechanic, but from what I have read this is an area of concern. The other critical area is the brakes. I am assuming I will need to replace the whole system from master cylinder all the way to the pads. Do I attempt to rebuild what I have or opt to buy replacement parts?

I looked for the book by Henry Elfrink and couldn't come up with Porsche 356 specific manual. However, I have found Mr. Kellogs website at 356RESTORE. Boy this guy is serious about 356's. He sells a book. Any comments on his book?

I am a really personal guy and pardon me if I ask you questions that are not appropriate. Where do you live? What is your background in Porsche's? How did you get linked to this website?

Thanks again,

Dennis



 
Question -
Dave,

I am an owner of a 1960 356B Coupe. I have owned this car since 1980, at which time I began to restore it. Due to lack of money or time the project has been on hold until recently. I know the motor is the first item needing attention. I have rebuilt Type 1 motors in the past, but don't know if I am up to the task (I am a teacher and I only have 3 months off) of taking on the motor rebuilding project. The motor ran 25 years ago, but I was told it had some valve problems.

What should be my first task?  Attempt to start the motor and find out what is really wrong with it? Rely on my good judgement and pull the motor and find a honest Porsche mechanic who won't gouge me?

I was told a VW Type 1 motor will "bolt in" and I have been considering the idea of installing the one I have that way I can ease into the task of building the original motor.

Thanks for your time,

Dennis Eickhoff
Answer -
Hi Dennis,

I congratulate you for being so cautious with your lovely old "B".  If you have rebuilt VW engines you certainly can and should rebuild your 1600 engine yourself.  It would be well within your skill level.  If you work with a very competent machine shop they will most certainly be able to rebuild the heads while performing a valve job...and then you should be able to put the pieces back together yourself.  

If you don't have the Porsche 356 repair manual by Henry Elfrink, you should consider getting your hands on one.  I'd check bookfinder.com to try to find a cheaper used version.  It actually covers the disassembly and reassembly in very adequate detail.  Any specific concerns you have as you go should be able to be answered by your new found friends at the machine shop.

If you think there will be some time pressure that would affect your efforts, I'd certainly consider swapping in the VW engine.  Yep, it'll bolt directly to your Porsche transaxle.  There will no doubt be some adapting to do related to the fuellines and perhaps the wiring to the generator, but everything should be very familiar looking to you.

If the motor has been sitting for twenty-five years and you're considering rebuilding it...don't bother trying to start it...just take it apart and do a nice rebuild.  About the only reason I can think of to try to start the thing...there is no good reason...don't do it.

As you go forward, I'd be happy to kick restoration ideas around with you.

Dave


Answer
Dennis, sorry I haven't been timely in responding.  I've been very involved in everything but fun Porsche stuff.  I actually do have opinions on everything but I only have time for one issue today.  I have always thought that moving from 6 volts to 12 volts in the older 356's was a great idea.  I've not done it yet just 'cause I have kept all as original as possible.  I think it's a great idea and would like to follow along and or discuss your plans/accomplishments.

Dave