Porsche Repair: Porsche 356 engine, porsche club of america, blah blah

Question
Dear Dave,

I'm searching for an engine for my 1964 Porsche 356c. Tough one huh? Yeah I know and I've had no luck with my search.  Anyways, if there is any leads or information you can assist me with, it really would be a great help.  

Thanks again,

Tizoc

Answer
Tizoc,

You don't indicate whether you're looking for a completely re-done engine, whether it can be just the pieces and parts to build it yourself, or whether it has to be a concours-ready numbers-matching engine.  And you don't indicate whether you've found engines but they've been overpriced, or whether you just haven't found any at any price.  

I suppose the best suggestion I can make is to narrow your focus as you expand your network.  What I mean is take the time to define what engine you want.  Be as specific as you can be and write it down, so you'll have to think about just what will fulfill your needs....for example:  I'm looking for a 356C or SC engine, rebuilt with less than 5000 miles, in as completely stock form as possible, blah, blah, blah.

Once you have this down to a tee, search out the kind of people who would know what you're talking about and would know of possible sources.  These would include your local Porsche Club of America (PCA), your local independent Porsche mechanics, and if money is no object, your local Porsche dealer.  No, I don't expect them to have an engine in stock, but I'll bet someone there (probably in the Parts Department) knows of someone buying parts for older engines.

The next step would be to use the internet to seek out sources from around the country.  I'd search out 356 registry's, companies specializing in restoring these beauties, parts retailers like Stoddards and Performance Products, and Porsche salvage companies.

Easy...no.

Hope these ideas help.  Good luck.

Dave