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Posted by: rnellums Aug 13 2011, 09:26 PM

This thread is to document the restoration of the newest member of my family. After my 1973 914 2.0L was totaled a month ago I was heartbroken, but out of the ashes(and insurance money) rose Calypso.

She is a 1974 2.0L. It is not fully loaded(no sways, chrome bumpers, or aluminum sills) but is COMPLETELY original. It has a few blemishes that I have found so far, and certainly I will find more as i get to know her better.


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Posted by: rnellums Aug 13 2011, 09:30 PM

more


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Posted by: RobW Aug 13 2011, 09:31 PM

Not bad... time to take everything apart and put her on jackstands!!

Posted by: RobW Aug 13 2011, 09:33 PM

Notice the original strut factory paint on the top nut.... don't see that too much anymore....

Posted by: rnellums Aug 13 2011, 09:34 PM

still more. This morning I put in all new vacuum lines from AA. tomorrow I will be replacing all the rubber brake lines with DOT approved SS from Pelican parts. Everything is in good working order but the engine continues to rev after the throttle has been let off. It is not a sticky pedal, so I am thinking AAR or the decel valve, but I have no experience with fuel injection.

-Ross


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Posted by: rnellums Aug 13 2011, 09:37 PM

I had noticed that as well. that shows that the shocks on the car are certainly original, but the question is how well they are working after almost 40 years. It is tempting to swap in my newish koni adjustables, but I am also thinking about turning this into a concours car since it has such a rare color.

Posted by: kg6dxn Aug 13 2011, 10:21 PM

Build it to drive it! Or... do what ever you want

Posted by: rnellums Aug 13 2011, 10:35 PM

Oh, it will be driven! But probably not raced. No performance bits, just cruises and twistys. Oh, and the original mileage is just over 67,000.

Posted by: echocanyons Aug 14 2011, 12:28 AM

I love that color

Posted by: Spoke Aug 14 2011, 03:05 AM

Nice car.

If the engine is revving high, then there is a vacuum leak somewhere. Could be AAR or any other vacuum line.

Posted by: swl Aug 14 2011, 05:29 AM

Wow! It is the interior that is blowing me away. One small blemish in the seat but other than that looking like it came out of the showroom.

You will find the vacuum leak easy enough. If it is really high it is either a connection come loose (I keep bumping off the connection in front of the plenum). or the AAR. Looks like it has been sitting for a while so money is on the AAR. Easy to check.

Posted by: bembry Aug 14 2011, 08:24 AM

It certainly is beautiful. However--are the seat inserts original, or recovers? I have the tan corduroy inserts on my teener, but mine are so thrashed, I don't know what they really would have looked like new. The ones on this car almost look like velour though, at least in the pics. Thoughts?

Posted by: rnellums Aug 14 2011, 09:53 AM

You are right about the seat inserts. They are a velour type texture, definitely not corduroy. I am not sure if they are original or not, but perhaps they were a dealer installed option?

The only non-stock parts I have found so far are the monza exhaust, the shift knob, and the tires.

On the revving issue, the idle isn't high, it just is slow to decel after the gas is let off. I just replaced all the vacuum lines in the engine bay.

Posted by: ChrisNPDrider Aug 14 2011, 11:12 AM

Wow, awesome color/interior/graphic/wheels combo. Score
Care to share what level of $$$ was exchanged?
My vote is keep it as untouched and OEM as possible. Upgrades for safety. MAYBE front anti-roll bar, as those are oh so nice for pushing the limits in corners.
Take it to a concours now and see what the judges have to say, then you got your "To Do List."
Thanks for sharing

Posted by: poorsche914 Aug 14 2011, 11:24 AM

My 2 yr old granddaughter saw the pictures and said:

"Oh my gosh, pretty car. I want to ride in it"

She loves my 914 and can point one out in photos, etc. Afflicted since birth.

Posted by: SUNAB914 Aug 14 2011, 11:52 AM

Very pretty car! Very nice find also.

Posted by: jeeperjohn56 Aug 14 2011, 12:10 PM

You found a nice clean car, good luck on refurbushing what needs to be, I like the color also. John

Posted by: JawjaPorsche Aug 14 2011, 12:19 PM

For a "Northern" car, it really looks in great shape! You did good!

Posted by: rnellums Aug 14 2011, 12:48 PM

I am going the untouched route as well. Next order of business is brakes from Eric Shea! I bought it for 8000.

Posted by: rnellums Aug 14 2011, 05:19 PM

Thanks! A wasn't sure about the color originally but is has really grown on me. The part that needs the most work is the engine compartment. All the engine tin needs to be repainted and in general cleaned. I found a mouse nest in the driver's corner this morning! Even the windshield is original though!!! I do need to figure out a way to play my iPod through the stereo. I'm thinking of replacing the stock speakers with upgraded units and perhaps the "simple stereo" unit hidden in parallel with the stock radio.

Posted by: rnellums Aug 14 2011, 09:31 PM

All new brake flexible lines installed, and venting clearances adjusted. Next to bleed the brakes and !

Posted by: rnellums Aug 15 2011, 03:38 PM

A pic of the installed period Cibie headlights


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Posted by: rnellums Aug 15 2011, 03:41 PM

just two more.


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Posted by: eric9144 Aug 15 2011, 04:40 PM

Wow I just noticed that your VIN and Prod date are incredibly close to mine

Mine was also born 10/73 with same starting vin ending in 6663

Definitely a good month for 914's!

Posted by: bandjoey Aug 19 2011, 11:36 PM

I've never seen this color. What's the official color name? It's a great looking car too. Good luck with the restore.

Posted by: SirAndy Aug 19 2011, 11:53 PM

98 - Ice Green Metallic

Do you have that listed in the documentation somewhere?


I'd like to add that one to the list of known 98 colors!

Posted by: rnellums Aug 21 2011, 08:22 PM

Agreed! I check my chassis number and discovered that it was the first off the line that Wednesday!

Andy-I am working on getting the color verified through PCNA over the phone before I splurge on a genuine COA-especially since I have the original owners manual with chassis, engine and transmission number verification. The color is certainly the original color(painted in places no sane person would repaint, like under the undercoating) but I don't know if it is officially "Ice Green Metallic" I am really hoping it is a one-of-a-kind color. It'd be cool to have the only one of the world.

She is running pretty well but still has a few things that need taking care of:

I checked the AAR today and it is not closing as the engine warms up. I've heard that PB blaster can loosen it up, is that kinda like generic brake cleaner?

The brakes need to be bled again as the pedal is pretty spongy.

She made a 105 mile run today with no troubles whatsoever. The oil temp gauge was sitting right along the first leg of the m on the 74' gauge.

I have the feeling that all she really needs right now is a lot of . So let the fun begin!

-Ross

Posted by: Dave_Darling Aug 21 2011, 08:36 PM

PB Blaster is one of the better penetrating oils. Aero Kroyl is one of the other good ones.

WD-40 is not.

--DD

Posted by: majkos Aug 21 2011, 08:37 PM

Young kids! music, music, music

Learn your 914 music,
troubleshooting be a breeze if you notice something sound out of order

Posted by: rnellums Aug 22 2011, 05:28 AM

Nothing sounds bad Kev, but the engine floats after I let off the gas. Probably a 1-2 secOnd delay before the rev's drop. I know the aar is staying open, but the decal valve could be stuck too. Exercise is key to staying healthy though right?

Posted by: majkos Aug 22 2011, 08:49 PM

I really meant about your concern for some music from the "radio"
is that still a term? LOL!
You have yourself a real beaty!
and if ll the cruds underneath is just tins, you're golden!

Posted by: Tom_T Aug 23 2011, 10:52 PM

Love that Ice Green & Beige interior combo!

That is the AMCO shift knob sold by dealers & direct from AMCO back in the day - $5!!! .... I have an ad for them in an old magazine.

By the 74 MY the 2.0s had to be ordered with Appearance Group & Performance Group (sway bars) separately as extra cost options, and IIRC the chrome bumpers were an extra as well even with the AG.

Also by late 73 MY all the thresholds were changed to the black plastic & the aluminum ones were no longer used (see the Sahara Beige late 73 2L in the O&H nailed topic "The few, the rare...."). So it wasn't a missing option on your new (to you) 74 2L.

Geez, for $8k for a low mile 73-74 2.0 in Alaska or Marathon Blue & Beige interior in relatively easily restorable condition & solid/rust free & never whacked - I'd drop my own 73 2L's resto & switch direction! Great find!

EDIT - I see the dealer did the ole steal the spare's Fuchs & swap in a steelie trick on yours too! Find a 5th 2L Alloy Wheel for it too.

Posted by: rnellums Aug 24 2011, 03:51 AM

as a matter of fact, I do have a 5th Fuchs wheel that was given to me with the sale! There isn't a tire mounted on it, but is in pretty good shape.

Posted by: Tom_T Aug 24 2011, 12:40 PM

I caught that pic of it in the F trunk after I'd added the edit.
... old & very tired eyes at that point!

At least the PO/seller was thinking ahead, & all you have to do is renew/refurb/resto the wheel a bit & transfer the spare tire (assuming it's in good shape).

Looking forward to your finding out if it was indeed a 98 Ice Green special order by the OO/new buyer.

Try calling PCNA's Customer Care > COA dept. and tell them that you will order a COA through PCA (they'll give you a $20 or so discount), but that you want to verify your new 914's special order color - if it's shown on their microfilmed/digitized Kardex build record. Also, if you have the window sticker &/or other Porsche+Audi distributor sales info sheet, dealer BoS, etc. original documents - then it may show up there (or not), plus PCNA gives an additional discount ($20?) if you send in a copy with your COA form from PCA.

If you're not already a member - PCA is $42 a year, and the $20 discount, 20% off on parts/accys. at dealers a few times a year, the Panorama & local Regions' magazines monthly more than offset that cost, plus some good events for everybody.

Posted by: PBC914 Aug 24 2011, 12:52 PM

Beautiful car-I noticed your gauge cluster is from either a 75 or 76. 70-74 had a silver center on all 3 gauges. I apologize in advance if this was already noted.

Posted by: Tom_T Aug 24 2011, 01:03 PM

Not entirely correct - only the very early 74 MY still had the silver button gauges until they used up the 70-73 MY stock, then they switched over to the later 74 - 76 MY black button type. His is a 10/73 build per the VIN sticker, so we know that the black buttons started sometime that month, since this is an original 914 for the most part 99%.

More info here - http://www.p914.com/p914_gauges_cluster.htm

Posted by: eric9144 Aug 24 2011, 01:20 PM

Mine was born same MO/YR and also has black centers in the gauges...The are the originals. My 1st 914 born on 03/74 was also equiped with the black centers.

Really seems like the silver centers went away with the close of the '73 model year.

Posted by: Tom_T Aug 24 2011, 02:22 PM

I've seen a few Aug/Sept 73 builds with the silver centers, but I have no pix handy.

What really PO'ed me was that they went to a single turn signal indicator light for both L & R on them for 914s 74-76 & they were $9k+ by 76!!!!
..... as well as doing so on all VWs up until I don't know when.

In the meantime VW tried to market themselves as upscale German Engineering (Fart-fig-newton ) with minimal guages & that single indicator light! I mean really - REALLY! - our 88 Westy had a $28k+ sticker price & that stoopid single indicator & minimal gauges, while a competing & better equipped Dodge/Chrysler minivan was $5-10k less!!!! Only the Westy CamperGL package won it over for us - as well as it being the only car our then toddler daughter didn't scream & cry incessantly in!!!!

Posted by: rnellums Aug 24 2011, 02:28 PM

I noticed the same on the other 74' I parted out a year ago. That said, I do prefer the silver button, but I'm not about to mess with the original mileage...

-Ross

Posted by: eric9144 Aug 24 2011, 02:45 PM

And on that note Tom...how many 88 Dodge/Chrysler minivans are still on the street...or to be more exact on the street in working order! Worth the extra $? You bet!

Posted by: mburkhart Aug 24 2011, 02:49 PM

I agree - a great month!

10/73
4742907041

Maybe we can re-aquaint these long-lost cousins this Saturday at Garrold's!

Posted by: rnellums Aug 24 2011, 03:52 PM

OK, here is my chassis code: 4339501
which I decode to be that my car was "born" on Wednesday, the 24th of October, 1973 and was the FIRST car to roll off the line that day. Meaning either everyone was sharp witted on the first car of the day or was still asleep from too much juice in the biergarten the night before!(Terrible tuesdays)

Posted by: Tom_T Aug 26 2011, 04:23 PM

Actually Eric, there are probably about the same percentage of total production for both on the road today.

But you missed my point relative to the 74> 914s & VW products "cheaping out" on things like that - as it does NOT reflect the quality which they claimed, and their sales slipped so far that they became a minor import player - from being the prominent one int the 1960's when I was a high schooler!

Our 88 Westy now has 209k+ miles, but it's sticker was $5k more than my 85 BMW 325e Coupe sticker price just 3 years later (now with 179k+ mi), and historically has cost me 4x the repair bills than the 325e at the same total mileage level. The BMer was built to quality and it's durability reflected it and IMHO was worth the price, while the Westy was overpriced & under quality wanna be.

For example - out 914s & older VW Busses had Zimmerman disks which could be turned several times before requiring replacement, whereas the Vanagons went to much tinner disks which generally had to be replaced once worn & allowed for little or no opportunity to turn them in a normal wear cycle, and the BMer had disks which could be turned several times. The result was that with every brake job on the Westy we had to replace the disks at $1000+ but the 914 had & BMer does go several brake jobs before disk replacement.

I can say this, because as the original owner of the Westy & BMer, & 2nd owner of the 914 since 12/75, I have the records to show where the costs & quality was & was not, and VW definitely sacrificed quality during the mid-70's to early 90's. Fortunately they recognized their mistakes, and are now back up in quality.

And it's not just me, but Consumer Reports rated VWs the same way vs. other competitors vehicles back then in the 1980's, including on minivans.

Frankly, the main reason we went with the Westy was that it would've been double the cost to have a local van conversion company convert a Chrysler minivan to a Westy-type camper van, which we wanted to use for our family trips. This was the same opinion of my long time VW & Porsche factory trained mechanic in Huntington Beach, who saw a lot more VW products than either you or I.

Today the Westys have a cult following, which distorts their values in the marketplace, and not necessarily in relation to their actual level of quality build.

How else do you explain a restored 23 window `61 VW Bus selling for $217k at Barratt Jackson a few months back!!??

Our

Posted by: Tom_T Aug 26 2011, 04:30 PM

Okay Ross, it's time to put Calypso in your Avatar!

A 914 Coffee & Gut Bombs Gathering sounds like a good idea, but for more than just you two 74 cousins' owners.

There should be a place that all of you IL & IN Teeners can get together for a Midwest gathering. Post it on 914world & I may be able to come sometime, since I have family in the Indy area & Lebanon IN, and get back there occasionally. In fact, I was there a couple of weeks before you picked up Calypso in late July.

Posted by: rnellums Aug 26 2011, 09:44 PM

I dunno what you mean, Calypso is my Avatar...I would love a monthly get together. Lafayette seems perfectly situated too between Indy and Chicago.... I actually found a sandwich shop today by my house that has its address as 914 union st....

Posted by: Tom_T Aug 27 2011, 01:17 PM

Oh, I thought that the new Ice Green Metallic 914 was named Calypso, that's what I meant to put up - now that she's the "new" 914 in your life!

Sandwich Shop at a 914 addy sounds perfect, just get the word out to your local guys about it, then pick a good route to run as a group after/before (I know, IN is mostly flat & straight roads), then post a gathering to pick a regular date. Others out here in CA have been doing that for some time & it seems to work well to get the Teeners together.

Good Luck with the gathering & the resto!

Cheers!
Tom
///////

Posted by: rnellums Aug 27 2011, 05:59 PM

I think it may be a quirk in the new server, My avatar seems to keep reverting back to my old avatar. Half the time its Calypso, half the time it is Bosser... weird. I'm working on the fix now...

and some pictures of the Portage BBQ at Garold's today. Has a Blast!


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Posted by: bandjoey Aug 27 2011, 06:14 PM

That's both a great new color and also a great meetup place of Goralds...parking for many 914's . Glad you had fun and post some more pics soon. I have a full set of silver button guages I'll send if you decide you like 'em.

Posted by: rnellums Aug 27 2011, 06:23 PM

I've still got a full set from my old teener, but I think I'll stick with the originals! Thanks though! All the different colors reminded me of Skittles.

Posted by: rnellums Sep 3 2011, 08:22 AM

Just placed an order for 4 new Goodyear eagle GT tires! The aar is soaking in PB blaster and new fuel lines are on their way from tangerine!! It is wrench time!

Posted by: majkos Sep 3 2011, 08:29 AM

Good, and while you at the computer, explain
"Calypso"?

Posted by: rnellums Sep 3 2011, 10:33 PM

Calypso is a goddess type from Greek mythology. She was featured most prominently in homer's odessey living on an island and imprisoning odesseus, but also has some sea roots and connotations. Since the color reminds me of the color of the ocean and I'm pretty sure she plans to take lots of my time as well.

Posted by: rnellums Sep 4 2011, 10:57 AM

New plate arrived yesterday!

Posted by: veltror Sep 4 2011, 12:41 PM

Tracks 1 2 and 3


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waiting_for_Cousteau#Track_listing

Posted by: Haudiosolutions Sep 4 2011, 04:44 PM

Poor thing! She has certainly seen the pain inflicted so far?

Posted by: Tom_T Sep 5 2011, 03:53 PM

"Tippacanoe & Calypso too!" ... to borrow from the Tuyler campaign.

Posted by: rnellums Sep 5 2011, 04:13 PM

huh?

Posted by: Tom_T Sep 5 2011, 04:26 PM

"Tippacanoe & Tyler too" was the presidential campaign slogan when Tyler ran in the 1800s, your plate reminded me of an updated version of it!

Who said history couldn't fun later in life!? ... I didn't sleep in class.

Posted by: rnellums Sep 6 2011, 08:04 PM

I just got a loose offer for 16k. Do I take it?

Posted by: mepstein Sep 6 2011, 08:10 PM

Hell yes. Just make sure to see the loose cash.

Posted by: SirAndy Sep 6 2011, 08:15 PM

And don't forget about that paint code!

Posted by: rnellums Sep 6 2011, 08:21 PM

I called Porsche and told them I had a 98 code, they called back and told me it was a 99 paint code. No further response.

Posted by: KELTY360 Sep 6 2011, 08:25 PM

Take the money and run. But if you do, I'll wager it's a car you'll always wish you had back.

Posted by: flipb Sep 6 2011, 08:27 PM

Wow, just discovered this thread after following the unfortunate demise of your last teener.

Your new one is pretty similar to mine: an early '74 with console that is very original. Only exceptions on my car are:

• Some DAPO ditched the FI (now running dual EMPI 40s)
• Speakers cut into the door panels, courtesy of the same or another DAPO
• Monza exhaust
• Tires (though still the factory size)
• I put on repro Euro taillights (still have the original lenses though)

Mine is 8/73 build date and has silver button gauges.

A word of audio advice: Most of the Blaupunkt stereos have a DIN connector on the back. You can buy (or build) a 3.5mm-to-DIN cable to plug an iPod right into the stock radio. I bought a cable on eBay and it works, although some wire has come loose and my radio has no power anymore.

As for the $16K offer... I think my car's condition is pretty similar and I'd have a very, very hard time turning down that kind of offer. Of course, if I accepted it, I'd immediately start looking for an already-done -6 conversion to replace it.

Posted by: bigkensteele Sep 6 2011, 08:33 PM

I don't know. I think that it depends on your financial situation. These cars are climbing in value, even in a horrible economy. Very nice, original cars aren't growing on trees, and if you really love this one, you may want to think twice. On the other hand, if it does not really hold a place in your heart and you can make a substantial return on your investment, then flip the thing and see what you can find with your proceeds. Sixteen large will buy a pretty nice car, depending on what you want to do with it.

Posted by: Eric_Shea Sep 6 2011, 08:35 PM

Turn it and get a 6 conversion.

Posted by: rnellums Sep 7 2011, 06:42 AM

I was fooling around replacing some of the bulbs in the dash wiring harness and I saw that my stereo is a Motorolola model - which seems to indicate it must have been replaced a long time ago. the PO thought it was original, but it seems to me to be of lesser quality than a Blaupunkt.

Posted by: THE STIG Sep 7 2011, 07:42 AM

I posted this over in your other thread but not sure if you saw it. I was looking at a very bad shape 1970 parts car a couple of weeks ago, right after I saw your first thread. This car has a set of late crash bar doors on it in this color. I know they were original. I was in disbelief. With that said, your 914 is still super rare and an awesome 914. I also have access to those doors if you would like to see photos of them

Posted by: rnellums Sep 7 2011, 09:45 AM

If you had photos it would be cool to see them! Do you know anything about the donor car they may have come from?

-Ross

Posted by: bandjoey Sep 7 2011, 12:47 PM

Double your money in 30 days? Absolutely. Another Fresh Start to find another jewel. Prices are going up but thre are still bargains out there.

Posted by: Jaymann Sep 7 2011, 01:54 PM

Take the money!!!!Jason from PA

Posted by: rnellums Sep 7 2011, 02:52 PM

The biggest downside would be that I might not make the MUSR in a month.

Posted by: Tom_T Sep 7 2011, 06:38 PM

with the latter, keep it, enjoy it, clean it up, then if you must - sell it later for an over $20k offer!

BTW - Motorola made radios for both Porsche/Porsche+Audi & VW of America (VoA's VPC div.) for installation by dealers in their cars here. Not bad radios in fact, and in some cases better than some Blau's.

I have the original Motorola made AM/FM/8-Track for mine, which will go back into mine with my resto....





So your Motorola could be originally installed by the dealer at the time of purchase, even if not factory installed. IMHO that IS original (sorry Pat).

Posted by: Tom_T Sep 7 2011, 06:42 PM

IIRC 98 was the code for any other Porsche color offered from any model year, & 99 was for a customer selected color (i.e.: "one off's").

Call them back at PCNA & see if they have any record of the actual paint color on the Kardex record under that 99.

Posted by: KELTY360 Sep 7 2011, 07:19 PM

Tom makes a good point. The unique beauty, rarity and desirability of your car make it a great candidate for a high dollar concours restoration.....someday. As long as you're not doing irreparable modifications it will hold that value while you enjoy it.

Of course, it could get hit by a careless driver or be caught in a hailstorm or tornado, or even vandalized in the school parking lot, at which point all bets are off. The other issue to consider is storage; are you storing the car indoors or is it sitting in a parking lot at the dorm?

You might decide the car is too valuable for the way it is going to be used and put it in the hands of someone who will restore it while you take advantage of the windfall and find a more suitable 914 plus banking a nice chunk of change to boot.

As cool as Calypso is, this isn't an easy decision. Good luck.

Posted by: JRust Sep 7 2011, 07:34 PM

If you don't take it Give me their number. I have a restored creamsicle I would sell for less than that

If you do take it. I would sell you my 1974 LE Creamsicle for less than that & you could still make MUSR. Hell I'd even consider driving it out to you & flying back after MUSR

Okay back on topic. I think you should sell it. While it is a unique color. You could spend the money on a very nice 914 conversion with more power. Of course a nice stock car is great. Tough to beat a 914 with some grunt to it though

Posted by: rnellums Sep 7 2011, 07:35 PM

I have a small 1 car garage that she stays in. I think I am going to keep her, at least for a few more years. The one frustrating thing about this car is that I enjoyed tinkering on my old car. On calypso there isn't much to fix!!!

Thanks for all the support!8

Posted by: THE STIG Sep 7 2011, 11:56 PM

I do not, I was helping a friend out who has 3 914s, and he was showing me his 2 parts cars, which were both 1970 cars. I opened the door, and could not believe my eyes. I will ask him, but I am quite sure he bought the car with 2 other friends, and it was this way before they bought it. I completely understand your desire for more info from the car they were from. I will try and get him to take some photos for you.

THE STIG

Posted by: dion9146 Sep 8 2011, 05:39 AM

I still think you should sell it for $16K, then drive down to Louisville and buy my 3.2 conversion for not much more $. I'll make you a deal. I'm feeling an itch that I need to scratch, and it involves getting rid of the 914....

Dion

Posted by: rnellums Sep 8 2011, 08:00 AM

I will certainly be thinking about that! For now I am trying to the the FI set up to where it doesn't hang when you let off the gas.

I checked the resistances of the FI harness and everything lines up to the pbanders specs.

The AAR still isn't closing after soaking it in pb for two days, it is going in for another two tonight.

I used a bit of high vaccum grease on all the vacuum line fittings and now I am able to adjust the idle speed with the screw on the manifold some.

The ECU knob is set four clicks from full lean. I had read elsewhere that it should be closer to the middle(around 11 clicks) but if I go any further, even with the idle speed screw all the way in I can't bring the idle speed down to a useable level.

Posted by: Tom_T Sep 8 2011, 04:43 PM

Does it start yet Jaime? .... I'm just recalling the pix from the prior WCR!

Posted by: Tom_T Sep 8 2011, 04:46 PM

There, see - you do have something to fiddl with on Calypso!
... just get her all ironed out in time for MUSR!

Those roads in NW AR are fuuu-un!

Posted by: rnellums Apr 25 2012, 09:10 AM

Been a while since the last update. MUSR was a blast, and the drive there and back from Lafayette went well. Towards the end of the drive back the clutch started acting a little funny, which leads me to the current state.

I pulled the engine to replace the clutch, and found a spot more rust in the hell hole than the previous owner had admitted to. It looked far better with the engine in. I shipped the car off to Brad Mayeur and had him put in a new right engine shelf and generally clean up the area.


Before:






After:

Posted by: rnellums Apr 25 2012, 09:21 AM

I then turned my attention to the clutch. The previous owner told me when I bought it that it had recently had the clutch done, so I was confused by apparent failure of the clutch. When I took it apart there was deep grooving on the flywheel and little/no wear on the clutch. It was apparent that whoever replaced the clutch did not wish to machine the flywheel back to spec. Also, the pressure plate splines were badly worn from pushing the clutch so far. Fortunately I have a spare pressure plate in my leftover parts bin and will be replacing the clutch with new.






I also ordered a new rear main seal "while I'm there"

I also picked up an original 2.0L Leistritz banana muffler, which I wire brushed down and hit with a coat of zinc paint. Looking pretty sharp now.





I am also refreshing the engine bay tins and some other engine parts. Here are some before pictures, after pictures should come within the next two weeks.

Posted by: mepstein May 3 2012, 06:02 AM

The PO of my red car also had a parts car the same color as yours. I didn't need body parts but I did come home with the engine lid. He got rid of the shell so I don't have any more info or pics. Mark


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Posted by: rnellums May 3 2012, 06:54 AM

Interesting! I also heard about a car over in England I think that had doors of a similar color to my car. The color of those parts above does seem a little bluer than mine, but maybe it's just the light.


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Posted by: mepstein May 3 2012, 07:38 AM

It's a cloudy day here so the light and camera could be causing the difference. The underside of the lid sure looks a lot like the paint on your floor tar.

Posted by: rnellums May 3 2012, 07:59 AM

True that! Here's another.


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Posted by: nathansnathan May 15 2012, 09:14 AM

I thought I'd read that 98 was the "paint to sample" and that 99 was were you used a porsche color from, say, a 911. Silver green metallic was a 911 color from 74-77, here on a 76 912, though it looks a little more blue in the pic.


I think "ice green metallic" and "silver green metallic" are the same, the german is something like "Silbergruen Diamante" (sometimes you see it translated as "silver green diamond metallic".

Here's Ferry Porsche's 73 Carrera Rs (though they didn't apparently offer that color in 73?)


for comparison


76 911s in ice green metallic


77 targa ice green


another


76, also ice green


In some lights it looks silver, sometimes more green. Awesome color for a 914, though, especially with the tan interior.

Posted by: rnellums May 17 2012, 01:39 PM

New used pressure plate (the old one was really warped!) and cleaned up engine:



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Posted by: Jamie May 17 2012, 07:41 PM

I think you will be glad that you've apparently decided to keep the car, and regardless of condition, there is always something that needs to be tinkered with on a 914! Yours is too nice and too clean to be a normal barn find, and workin' and runnin' will be the best medicine for you both, especially since you have some experience working on her. My all original 73 with 52K keeps me busy in between club runs, and now that you have the motor out take care of all the rust you can find. Rust never sleeps, and it doesn't get any better by itself. You'll sleep better knowing you've killed some unseen rust!

Posted by: rnellums Jul 15 2012, 09:43 AM

Engine ready to go back in!


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Posted by: rnellums Jul 30 2012, 08:28 AM

I finished Installing the engine along with the newly painted tins and started her up. There were a few problems; first, the accelerator cable had broken, and was very difficult to remove (I ended up cutting the shank off the cable to remove). To install the new cable I cut 1/4" off the end of the cable and it slid in with much less difficulty. The length is almost too short, but is workable.

Second, the oil pressure idiot light was not turning on with the engine not running. The switch had stopped working. I removed it and polished the contacts and it worked again, but its time to order one from pelican.

Also, one of the fuel injectors was leaking from the injector body itself. The leak eventually stopped, but I ordered 4 NOS injectors from Otto's in California anyways.

Last weekend I drove the car to Porsche's 2 Ohio in Granville. A total of 600 miles or so and it ran without a hiccup. The E-brake seems a bit loose though, so that will need a checkup soon.

Now Pictures.





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Posted by: rnellums Jul 30 2012, 08:31 AM

I ended up putting the original transmission mounts back in, they looked like they weren't broken, but they are MUCH more pliable than the 911 motor mounts I have on my other transmission. Should I swap the 911 mounts in for the old stock mounts? The car seems to drive and shift fine.

Pictures are of the stock mounts.


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Posted by: nathansnathan Jul 30 2012, 06:43 PM

Your engine looks great. You should get a yellow bosch sticker for your coil the next time you order from aa, just because it would look cool.

Posted by: rnellums Jul 30 2012, 06:48 PM

Thanks a ton! I will order one stat!

Posted by: rnellums Aug 3 2012, 03:26 PM

Just put some new fuel injectors in. One old one had a leak(that stopped eventually) but I feel much better with new equipment in there now.

Just in time for the BBQ at Garold's this weekend!




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Posted by: rhodyguy Aug 4 2012, 07:01 AM

did you replace the trans mounts? they were prob more pliable because they were torn up.

Posted by: rnellums Aug 4 2012, 07:34 AM

The old ones are still in. I looked closely and didn't see anything that looked like a structural tear. THere were some small tears (arrowed)


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Posted by: rnellums Aug 11 2012, 08:03 PM

I spent most of the day today detailing the exterior. I washed it, went over it with a clay bar, then went over it with a light buffing compound before using a polishing compound and lastly some caranuba wax.

I did everything by hand, and I had no idea how much work I was getting myself into. I took a bunch of before and after pictures, but the difference just doesn't show up in pictures, so I'll only be posting the after photos.

Smooth as glass!

Posted by: billh1963 Aug 11 2012, 08:14 PM

That is an awesome color!

Posted by: turk22 Aug 11 2012, 09:35 PM

The car looks great! I like the work you did with the engine, I may have to pick your brain, because I think my car's engine is going to need a similar refresh, and it really looks like you did a great job. I think the 600 miles is testament to that.

Turk

Posted by: rnellums Aug 12 2012, 06:30 PM

The work I did was all topical. I didnt touch the engine internals, just cleaned repaired and replaced - something that needed to be done badly after 20 years of storage.

Posted by: rnellums Mar 25 2013, 02:31 PM

So I was running through some of the service history on Calypso this morning and decided to do a Google search on the dealer that sold the car originally TNM Lathrop Porsche-Audi. Turns out it closed its doors permanently in 1989, but more interesting the search brought up a few results from The Day newspaper from New London, CT. Long story short, I was browsing through the paper and hit the classifieds.

Bingo: 1974 2.0 Litre. Ice Green Metallic, beige leatherette Interior, 5 speed.

Its dated the right year, from the right dealer and describes my car perfectly, further confirmation that the original color is Ice Green Metallic!




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Posted by: Chris H. Mar 25 2013, 03:06 PM

That's a one in a million find...nice work internet stalking your teener!!! The odds of that NOT being yours are more than one in a million. They didn't have too many special order Ice Green Metallic '74s. Counting yours I've only seen one.

Posted by: turk22 Mar 25 2013, 04:12 PM

That's pretty amazing, now see what you can do finding any history on my car!
Cause I'm not having any luck

Posted by: rnellums Mar 25 2013, 04:17 PM

The crazy part is I also have been stalking the original owner to pump him for some more info. I'm to the point where I have his name, age, where he went to college, did his residency, and where he worked up to 2008, but nothing after that.

Posted by: bigkensteele Mar 25 2013, 08:53 PM

Luckily, my car came with all of the service history. The original owner's name is Hal Holt, and it was clear from the records that he was in the Air Force for most of the time that he owned the car. It spent time in Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, and finally back to Minnesota, where he is from. It took about 2 minutes on google to find his number. I called and left a message. Didn't hear anything for a week, and then he called me back. We talked for about an hour. It was his first new car, and he bought it while he was a cadet at the Air Force Academy. It really was great to hear his stories about the car, and he seemed very happy to find out that it is in good hands now. He is a pilot for Delta/Northwest now, and I have promised him a drive if he ever has a lay-over in Cinci.

Hope you can find a number for the original owner. Talking with Hal made me love my car that much more.

Posted by: tscrihfield Mar 25 2013, 08:58 PM

Wow Ross! What a find..... But please don't go all Misery on us.

But really cool that you are able to dig all of this up!

Thomas

Posted by: KELTY360 Mar 25 2013, 11:25 PM

Interesting that the ad is Dec. '74, meaning the car didn't sell during the model year. With a special order color like that it makes me wonder if the original 'purchaser' didn't take the car once it arrived and the dealer had to 're-sell' the car. Hope you can find the original owner and flesh out the details.

Posted by: rnellums Mar 26 2013, 06:39 AM

I do have a fairly extensive service history also, but the name is fairly common. Google searches keep turning up the baseball player, maybe I can use that if I ever sell it . My story is fairly similar to yours, he was a medical doctor in the nave and bought the car immediately after graduation from undergrad in CT, and promptly moved to San Francisco with it, where it lived till 82'(although it had Florida plates the whole time). I would love to chat with him about it. Who knows, maybe he even has a few photos of it from back in the day!




I had wondered that actually. The owners manual with service history etc. has the car dated sold Feb 13, 1974. Looks like it was ordered, delivered and sold again in 6-months. Although the asking price in the ad is so high it makes me wonder if it even left the lot. MSRP for a similarly optioned car was around 7000.

Posted by: gms Mar 26 2013, 07:54 AM

That is a great find Ross!

Posted by: rnellums Apr 8 2013, 03:12 PM

I have just realized this thread is missing all the glamour shots I have taken of my car recently, So I had better update that!


From MUSR 2012!

Posted by: rnellums Apr 8 2013, 03:17 PM

Porsches 2 Granville event!

Posted by: rnellums Apr 8 2013, 03:20 PM

Garold's get together

Posted by: rnellums Apr 8 2013, 03:26 PM

Cincinnati VW/Porsche Reunion!

Posted by: rnellums Apr 8 2013, 03:33 PM

In other news, I just heard back from what I thought was the original owner of the car! He turns out to be the third owner, but has given me the story back to 1975, and also the contact info for owner number 2!

Posted by: veltror Apr 9 2013, 04:28 AM

Excellent pictures, excellent colour...even good weather unlike here...

Posted by: Zimms Jun 4 2013, 06:31 AM

How about a matching 911?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/S-Coupe-/190850339128?forcev4exp=true

Posted by: rnellums Jun 4 2013, 08:03 AM

I could do that, but storing the ones I have properly is beginning to be a problem!

Posted by: rnellums Jun 4 2013, 08:08 AM

I took some time last weekend to try out my new random orbital from Griot's. I used their machine polishes and found that they were exceptionally gentle. Perhaps too gentle. After about 4 hours of work I was only able to finish the trunk, but it definitely made a big difference!

Posted by: rnellums Jun 4 2013, 08:09 AM

Also got some great information about the car from the previous three owners! Just from sending letters out to them!


Ross -

I received, with some surprise, your notecard yesterday with the great news that the Porsche 914 which I regrettably had to part with in 1982 is now in obviously good hands.

I did own the Porsche from July 1975 until I sold it in the spring of 1982. As you're interested in what I remember, history-wise, here are the details of your car's early life -


• The car was initially specially-ordered (paint, appearance package) by a submarine officer at the Naval Base in Groton, CT. I never met him, do not know from which dealership he purchased it, or why he only owned it for only 6 months. As I remember it from my friend, who purchased it from him, the original owner was assigned to a post where it would have been difficult for him to take it (likely Scotland), so he sold it to my friend, who was a submarine medical officer at the base.
• My friend drove the car for only a brief time before he received orders for discharge from his Navy obligation, to return to his residency training in surgery at the University of California, San Francisco. My friend (2nd Owner, now a resident of Cincinnati and whom I had known since college) drove the car from CT to CA ahead of his family's move to San Francisco and asked me to both look after it while he was moving and see if I could assist with finding a buyer on the Navy bases where I was working at the time. After driving the car a couple of times, I realized I had found a buyer.
• I drove the car locally in the SF Bay Area until I was assigned to the Naval Base Guantanamo Bay in September 1976. The car was in a sealed garage storage until July 1977, when I returned to San Francisco to complete my fellowship training at the medical school. I was there until July 1979, when I was transferred to Camp Pendleton, a Marine base in northern San Diego County, until June 1980. When I received a one-year assignment in Washington, DC, I again placed the car in garaged storage until my return to CA in September 1981, when I proceeded to my next assignment in Denver, CO.
• After several months of slipping and sliding in the snow of Denver and as my wife and I were preparing for the arrival of our first child, I reluctantly decided to part with the Porsche, using it as a standard trade-in at a local Subaru dealer, with a mileage then of approximately 22,000 miles. I vividly remember turning over the keys to the salesman, since it represened my turning over so many good memories of my driving the Porsche. After that day, I always wondered what had happened to it.
• During my ownership, I regularly had it serviced by qualified Porsche mechanics. It was never in an accident and only had one mechanical incident - a leaking fuel line into the fuel pump. I never raced it or drove it over 85 MPH, but certainly enjoyed its handing. In fact, I have periodically looked at Ebay and other sites, to see if I could find a "right" Porsche 914 for a playcar, but have never owned another one since driving the car you now own.

The car looks as it did in the 1970's, so obviously you and interval owner(s) have taken very good care of it. I hope you'll continue to enjoy it as much as I did. If you have any thoughts or questions about the car, beyond my recollections above, then I can be reached at the contact information below.

Thanks for contacting me.

Posted by: rnellums Jun 4 2013, 08:12 AM

The next response:


Ross -

Thank you for taking the time to provide me additional details about "Calypso," along with the photos. My memory cells have been reprogrammed and updated with the facts you provided. I had remembered selling the car with a low mileage, but as you have reminded me, I think I actually bought the car with about 22 thousand miles on it, and evidently sold it around 7 years and 30 thousand miles later.

I'm astounded that it has held up so well, with limited mechanical and cosmetic interventions and 20 years or so of virtual storage - especially as you've received recognitions for the car at various shows. It certainly is fortunate that you are the current owner. Your interest in 914's will most certainly allow Calypso to live to an old age.

As for the three matters about which you had some questions -


• I don't know the details about the paint. I do remember 2nd Owner's mentioning to me that it was a special paint application, which I assumed meant it was ordered from the factory with the paint upgrade instead of being re-painted. I'd recommend that you contact 2nd owner to find out about the car's early history. I've alerted him of our communications, so I expect he'd enjoy speaking with you and also visiting with you if you happen to come back to Cincinnati. 2nd owner has had several Porsches over the years, including a 916, so I'm sure your passions for the 914 and classic cars would give you both much to discuss. He can be reached at email , (home) and (cell).
• The original seat covers were, indeed, tan corduroy. They became a bit worn when I was stationed in San Diego, so I had the cloth portion replaced at car upholstery shop in Oceanside, CA sometime during early 1980. The shop did not have ready access to corduroy, so it attempted to match the color with the velour cloth which was a denser and more durable weave. Interestingly, it seems to have endured the years all right.
• The "LAMC" decal surprised me, as I thought I had had that "Letterman Army Medical Center" (San Francisco) decal removed when I sold it. This was a required military decal which I had retained since it allowed me to drive onto the Presidio of San Francisco, where I lived, as well as other military posts, including Fitzsimons Army Medical Center, where I worked while I lived in Denver/Aurora, CO prior to the sale. The "LAMC" decal now has some historical weight, since that hospital complex was torn down when the Presidio was turned over to the local government in San Francisco a few years ago. Calypso certainly enjoyed her time driving around the SF Bay Area, as well as the Coast HIghway - with many curves and hills.

Thanks for providing me the 914world link; I was not familiar with it, and willl certainly be interested in looking at it in the future.

If you have any other thoughts or questions about the car, please continue to contact me; emails are more reliable, in general, since I still have a busy clinic schedule most days. I hope you'll certainly contact 2nd owner, since you both have a strong shared interest in 914's.

Wishing you a smooth transition from Purdue to Denver, which Calypso will help you get to know. I will definitely contact you if I should find myself there in the next few years.

Posted by: rnellums Jun 4 2013, 08:15 AM

And a response from the 2nd owner of the car:


Mr. Nellums,
Thank you for your photos and note on what remains one of the favorite cars I have owned. I bought the car around October 1974 and sold it to 3rd owner in August of 1975. I purchased it used from a dealer in New London, CT. I was in the Submarine Service at the time and drove it only from my home less than a mile from the base in Groton, CT to the base while in port. So until August of 1975, I put very little mileage on it though I thoroughly enjoyed driving it around. It had about 6,000 miles on it when I purchased it; it needed no repairs while I had it and I enjoyed "babying" it. In August 1975, I was soon to be separated from the Navy to finish my training in general and cardiac surgery. I was accepted at the University of California, San Francisco so I needed to get the car to San Francisco. In one very exciting and memorable trip, I drove the car from Groton, CT to Oakland, CA , where my best friend 3rd owner was currently residing. I drove the car alone across country using Interstate 80 and had a blast! The car performed perfectly the whole trip. Because I would be spending most of my time working, leaving the car in garages in some of the worst areas of the city, I decided to sell it. 3rd owner took one look at it and fell in love. He bought it right away. So, all told, I put about 4500 great miles on the car.
Well, that pretty well covers my history with the car; I have often wondered what happened to that beautiful car. I appreciate your and 3rd owner's update very much.
I am in poor health, but keep us in touch about your adventures with this beautiful car!

Thanks again for the pictures,
2nd owner.

PS Robert, unfortunately I have no pictures of the car, but it looked exactly like your photos show. You have done an excellent job taking car of it.

Posted by: Dave_Darling Jun 4 2013, 12:45 PM

Wow, that is really awesome! First-hand looks at the history of the car.

--DD

Posted by: rnellums Jun 3 2014, 09:27 PM

Spent some time getting the car ready for the Colorado Concours D'elegance this weekend! Only have cleaned the interior and the trunk so far!


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Posted by: rnellums Jan 29 2015, 07:19 PM

Some photos of the actual concours from last summer. I ended up wining my class!

I scored 225/240 after losing a few points for older rubber bumper tops, some detritus in the center console and door pocket, dirt under the spare tire, and some leaves in the engine compartment!


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Posted by: rnellums Jan 29 2015, 07:23 PM

And now for some heartbreak. I smashed the car up in my garage last week, and now I need to source a new left front fender and get my valuation documents together.

There is slight damage to almost every panel on the car, and I'm nervous State Farm may total it.

Does anyone know of a 98 paint code car selling recently and care to share the price?

ugh.




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Posted by: dlee6204 Jan 29 2015, 07:25 PM

Oh wow that sucks... what the heck happened?

Posted by: 76-914 Jan 29 2015, 07:32 PM

Damn Ross. That sucks. Anything to do with those dollies? You can tell us what happened later.

Posted by: rnellums Jan 29 2015, 07:41 PM

The whole thing is pretty embarrassing really. I was working on my silver Porscharu working out some bug with the headlights and my new gauges and decided to run it for a bit to keep the headlights from draining the battery too much.

I turned they key without checking if it was in gear for literally the first time ever.

the 212 hp of modern fuel-injected power kicked over on the first bump and drove into my tool cabinet, which got pushed into Calypso and then pushed them all up against the far wall of my garage. I turned the key off as soon as I felt movement but there are still treadmarks on my garage floor where the wheels were spinning.

Both feet were out of the car at the time by the way, so there was no way to push the brakes.

Just goes to show how valuable a neutral safety switch is. I think there is already one in the new subie transmissions too, I just hadn't wired it in!!!

Posted by: Java2570 Jan 29 2015, 07:50 PM

Oh man, that is too bad....hope you can get it repaired. Love your ice green metallic 914!!

Posted by: messix Jan 29 2015, 07:54 PM

that fender looks repairable

Posted by: mepstein Jan 29 2015, 07:58 PM

Sorry to see that. I saw the same thing happen in my garage to another members car. He let me take it for a test drive. I live on a hill so I always leave my car in gear. He wasn't ready for that. Tore into the garage wall but luckily very little damage concidering the force of impact. I definately felt worse for the car than the wall.

Talk to your insurance company and see what the next step is.

Posted by: stevegm Jan 29 2015, 08:07 PM

Oh wow. Sorry about that. What a neat color. Let me know if you need a fender. I'll sell it to you cheap to help you get it fixed.

Posted by: bandjoey Jan 29 2015, 08:12 PM

Somehow this is fixable. Values on ebay now are hitting in the high teens and twenties. you shouldn't have a problem with insurance value. Look via haggerty's, excellence mag, etc too for recent values. yahoo finance just did an article on the upswing in values.

Good luck!

Posted by: Chris H. Jan 29 2015, 08:47 PM

Paging Rick 918-S...please pick up the white courtesy phone...

Don't let them total it Ross. It's worth a MINIMUM of $15k. I've seen it in person at Garold's. Very rare color and interior combo. And you have the history, etc.

Sorry that happened to your car. Don't beat yourself up about it. Shit happens. Rick can fix it.

Posted by: scotty b Jan 29 2015, 08:52 PM

definitely fixable. If they try and total it be prepared to fight. there have been a couple threads about how to handle insurance issues Rick gave his expertise on

Posted by: SirAndy Jan 29 2015, 08:54 PM

Noooooooo ...

Posted by: turk22 Jan 29 2015, 09:05 PM

Wow, really sorry to see that Ross.

as everyone says, it can be repaired, and the quality and history of the car makes the numbers work.

Posted by: mepstein Jan 29 2015, 09:18 PM

Bob saved Huey from this -



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Posted by: rick 918-S Jan 29 2015, 09:19 PM

Oh dude.. First do your home work. The appraiser will not have a clue on how to value the car. Don't start appraiser bashing guys. It's really not their fault. They are given a set of tools to use and are forced into a set of metrics that require them to try to settle on the spot. ( they are scored by their closing ratio).

If it takes all night find three cars that are selling in the high 20k's They are out there.

Present the comps to the appraiser. Get estimates or choose a shop you can trust and either drive the car there or have it delivered and have the appraiser meet you at the shop if you can. That fender is repairable and with the right technic the repair can be undetectable from the inside or the outside.

Here's how you want to repair it. Post # 122

http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showtopic=104128&st=120

With that color the car will need to be zone painted to get a match. The shop had better plan on spending some serious time shooting test panels. Tell them not to be shy about charging or arrogant about their ability. The color will be a challenge for the best of the best.

Posted by: mepstein Jan 29 2015, 09:20 PM

to this -
Your car will be saved and maybe better than before.


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Posted by: rick 918-S Jan 29 2015, 09:33 PM

Oh! before you dig into the stripe take a tracing off of the one on your car. Take the tracing to your local vinyl cutter. You can have the exact cut and placement if you take good measurements. That's what I did for 7 of 9.

http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showtopic=104128&st=160

Posted by: MikeInMunich Jan 30 2015, 01:03 AM

You got an AMAZING deal on that car. If you're one to be able and enjoy making her pristine, while enjoying driving her, then in a two years you'd be able to sell it, IMO, I barring any total economic and / or social collapse, for about 25k or more. In the meantime you'd have put some time and money into the car, but it will be a true rarity and offer true collector status. I say enjoy it and hang on to your asset. You do NoT have to jump at this 16k offer. IMO,you can get that price almost anytime you want to.

EDIT-ADDITION: I just saw the page about the damage! OMG!! Words cannot describe. I'm in disbelief. So sorry.

Posted by: MikeInMunich Jan 30 2015, 01:07 AM

Wow!

Posted by: rnellums Jan 30 2015, 01:39 AM

I believe I have it insured at an agreed value of 16k, so that should help! I took it to a really reputable body guy, which means excellent quality, but also makes the repair more expensive.



Rick, I met with the adjuster today at The Metal Surgeon's shop with the car there. There was enough small damage that 5-6 panels at least will have to be repainted in addition to the fender repairs.

I've got some documents with comparable 914's for sale in the 20-30 k range that I tried to give the adjuster today and he shook them of and didn't want to take them from me. He said something about only passing those on if it looked like the car would be totaled. Hopefully that an indicator that we won't be going down the total loss road!

Thanks you guys for the support! I half expected to be roasted alive for doing this to my own car!

Posted by: mepstein Jan 30 2015, 06:05 AM

Mistakes happen
You took it to the right shop.

Posted by: rick 918-S Jan 30 2015, 08:30 AM

I forgot to mention, The appraisers do that. I don't know why. I always welcomed the input when I was an appraiser. Even if the info is BS. I would take it anyway. It was not worth creating the tension.

Anyway, sounds like you have the coverage and you picked the right shop!

Posted by: 76-914 Jan 30 2015, 09:44 AM

My sincerest condolences. The carnage in that pic had the same effect upon me as when I see a guy get crushed in the nuts. You probably know this but just in case see post #36. http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showtopic=233657&st=20

Posted by: SirAndy Jan 30 2015, 10:08 AM

That part comes later ...


I really hope this works out well for you, that's one special car you got there!

Posted by: Kansas 914 Jan 30 2015, 12:51 PM

Sorry Ross. You know the "Ice Queen" is one of my favorites!

I did something similar.. I forgot my driveway was slightly sloped and was pushing the 914 out of the garage to do the engine swap and it rolled into the CLS500 and dented it right before the wheel arch driver's rear. SO I dented the 914 and the Mercedes.......

This was right before RRC 2013 - did you notice the dent in the CLS500 when you were here?

Posted by: rnellums Jan 30 2015, 12:52 PM

Thanks Andy!

Posted by: Chris H. Jan 30 2015, 01:21 PM

Oh yeah Metal Surgeon is awesome. Had no idea he was by you. Should fix it right up for you better than new.

Posted by: rnellums Jan 30 2015, 01:27 PM

I never noticed that dent on your merc, I just remember it looking excellent as our rally chase car!

Posted by: Ferg Jan 30 2015, 01:27 PM

Sorry Ross!

Posted by: rnellums Jan 30 2015, 01:32 PM

I know! Turns out he is less than 10 minutes from my house! His shop is the kind of place I would love to have several hours to wander around in...

Posted by: RobW Jan 31 2015, 08:58 AM

You wont regret fixing it. The right person / people can make magic happen.

Dad's car had a boat driven into it (by Dad), the battery rusted through to the longs (Dad), the front hit (Dad), and the rear trunk dented by the wheel of a golf caddy cart (Dad). This is what it looks like today.


Also, Rich Botempi sold his silver 73 2.0 for top dollar in the last couple years. That would be a good comp if he's willing to share the details.


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Posted by: Eric_Shea Jan 31 2015, 10:05 AM

All fixable. The only problem I see is, that's one of those colors that you will "never" be able to match perfectly so, a complete re-spray will be in order. Pigments and the specific nature of the metallics has changed over the years.

And... That's the upside. How's the time to get the cowl and other areas back up to snuff.

Posted by: messix Jan 31 2015, 12:29 PM

oh we wont't let you live this one down but wont start in until after it gets fixed

Posted by: mobymutt Jan 31 2015, 02:03 PM

When I first got interested in 914's (about 2 years ago, haha), I actually had your avatar picture as my computer wallpaper. I think I just got it by google image searching 914's, and it was my favourite of all the ones that showed up. I love that colour, I hope you stick with it. Best of luck with the repairs!

Posted by: rnellums Jan 31 2015, 08:43 PM

I agree. There is a good chance that Calypso will end up looking better that she ever has! A good excuse to get the rest of the car into flawless shape as well!



Well that is flattering! I certainly won't have any plans to do a color change, the mint green has really grown on me!

Posted by: veltror Feb 2 2015, 02:10 PM

Oh dear, I kind of feel guilty that I have that front fender from you now... Hope you manage to get this fixed


Roman

Posted by: rnellums Feb 2 2015, 07:24 PM

hah! I have some friends here in Denver that can help me out with that if I need it! Who knows, maybe you'll get another fender from me out of this!

How is your project going anyways?

Posted by: bigkensteele Feb 2 2015, 08:33 PM

Ross, sorry to see this but glad that no one was hurt. In the end, it is just a car and it can be made right again.

For those who haven't seen this car in person, the color combo is stunning.

I don't think that they will, but if insurance wants to total it, I wonder if you could accept a partial settlement in lieu of a salvage title. Rick might know.

Posted by: rick 918-S Feb 3 2015, 12:42 PM

Owners have the first right of refusal but based on the agreed limit I doubt it will total.

Posted by: Scott S Feb 3 2015, 01:04 PM

Ross -
I had a grey market MK1 golf GTI that was very similar, if not that color. It was called Inari Silver Metallic. Porsche used it as well. Just another reference.





You know me... if that many panels needed work/paint, I would flare it!




good luck with the repairs

Posted by: toadman Feb 4 2015, 09:24 PM

Hi, Ross,
I was very sad to hear about your accident. I admired your car in September 2012 when you came to the Cincinnati area for the Porsche-VW car show. We had dinner together and you found and fixed an electrical problem with my car. I hope you get things sorted out to your satisfaction.

Posted by: rnellums Feb 13 2015, 10:23 AM

So I thought I had an agreed value on it, but they didn't have a record of that, so I've been going through the valuation process on it. Their first appraiser came back with a vehicle value of 11,700, which would result in the car being totaled ($9180 estimated damage). I think they felt that was a bit low because they hired a third party appraiser (Big Block Appraisal Services) who I have been working with now, and hopefully they come back with a number closer to where I believe it should be (~20k).



Thanks Scott! I already have my flared car though (Apollo) The car is going to be fixed, the only question is am I going to have to pay for it or will insurance take care of me.



Hugh,

How has your car been working these days? I think things will go my way here eventually, its just going to be a bit of a headace o get everything sorted out initially! I believe the Metal Surgeon has a pretty busy shop schedule, so even after insurance gets figured out, it will be a while before it can get into the shop to get repaired!

I hope all is well with you!

-Ross

Posted by: MikeInMunich Feb 13 2015, 01:12 PM

Dion, when you're really ready to sell that car for "not much more than 16k", please send me a PM. It looks awesome and IMO if it's as good as it looks, worth that price.

Posted by: rnellums Feb 13 2015, 01:13 PM

I believe he did sell that car back in 2011 to his business partner, also named Ross. The car now resides in Indiana, and I can tell you first hand that it is an awesome car to drive!

Posted by: bigkensteele Feb 13 2015, 06:10 PM

Yeah, Dion has been gone for a long time.

Ross, do you know yet what your options will be in the event that the appraisal does not come out in your favor? I assume it would be either:

a. allow it to be totaled -> buy it back -> fix it but end up with a salvage title.

or

b. drop the claim and have it fixed out of your own pocket.

Just wondering if there might be a c. negotiate a reduced settlement/higher deductible for the claim in order to retain a clean title???

Posted by: rnellums Feb 13 2015, 09:56 PM

I just found out it won't be an issue! The appraisal came back at 23,100 so the car is going to be fixed no questions asked! Great news for tonight!!

Posted by: bigkensteele Feb 13 2015, 10:33 PM

That is great news!

Posted by: turk22 Feb 13 2015, 10:42 PM

That's great news! Can't wait to see it all fixed up.

Posted by: mgp4591 Feb 14 2015, 04:40 AM

Congrats! Nothing like a big load off your mind when it comes to fixing your sweet ride. Christmas in February...

Posted by: 76-914 Feb 14 2015, 08:09 AM

Now back to the matter of that missing inactive neutral switch.

Posted by: rnellums Oct 3 2017, 06:14 PM

Wow, Can't believe how it has been since I updated this thread! In summary for what has been going on the last two years:

I had the car repaired by the finest metal workers in Denver (The Metal Surgeon on here).

I had the car re-painted in its original Ice Green Metallic by the finest painter in Denver (Emmel's Enamels)

I'm now in the process of replating/refinishing everything and putting it back together!



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Posted by: rnellums Oct 3 2017, 06:19 PM

More painting Photos


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Posted by: rnellums Oct 3 2017, 06:20 PM

Painting Complete


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Posted by: rnellums Oct 3 2017, 06:22 PM

Starting reassembly with PMB brakes, powder coated suspension components, and Bilsteins!


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Posted by: gms Oct 3 2017, 06:27 PM

Looks great Ross!

Posted by: Jacob Oct 3 2017, 06:27 PM

Wow! That is beautiful! Thanks for taking the time to post all the pictures! Much appreciated!

Posted by: Larmo63 Oct 3 2017, 07:41 PM

I always wondered what happened to this car.....?

Looks amazing so far.

Posted by: 76-914 Oct 4 2017, 12:00 PM

Looks great, Ross.

Posted by: burton73 Oct 4 2017, 03:03 PM

Super nice car. Great color Happy you got it worked out.

Bob B

Posted by: rnellums Oct 5 2017, 07:48 AM

I finished routing the wiring in the front trunk last night and got the rear harness pushed through the firewall. I'm ready to start the painful process of pushing it through the snorkel tube, only to find that the tube I have from 914 rubber doesn't seem to fit (not long enough, and not the right diameter) the hole in the engine shelf. Does anyone have a source for this part on a 1974 2.0L?

Thanks!

Posted by: Prorallye Oct 5 2017, 11:40 AM

Ross,

I had the same experience and was not pleased after I found out they don't fit properly on a '74. So....while I had my engine out I fabricated a piece to fit in that hole and welded it in therefore making it smaller, then inserted the snorkel. I believe this part may have been manufactured for something else. It seems good quality but is not the right size. I see you have already painted so you may have to figure something else out. Maybe somebody else has the correct part but I looked for a while for NOS and was unable to find. BTW...I used a "guide oil" that electricians use for wiring when pulling the harness through. Machinist wax is what I first used and it worked as I like that on a lot of things but the electricians oil made pulling that harness through the snorkel a LOT easier to finish it off at the suggestion of my father. Sorry but I forgot the name of what it is.

Love the color of your car btw!

Posted by: rnellums Oct 5 2017, 07:11 PM

Thanks for tip!

Looks like I'm off to find some unobtanium! Hopefully I can find a decent used piece!

-Ross

Posted by: rnellums Oct 9 2017, 07:24 PM

Got some more work done installing brakes and new hard and soft lines from PMB. Worth the cost! I also Pulled the car out and trailered it to a new garage that's a bit closer to home.

The shine off the paint is incredible!



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Posted by: rnellums Oct 9 2017, 07:27 PM

Also, I have attached some of the reasons my progress has been slow the past few years. Trying to get these operational!

The Benz's are both sold now (proceeds funded the NSX!). The white '67 230S was particularly hard to let go of!


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Posted by: Larmo63 Oct 9 2017, 07:27 PM

I get the feeling a 914 geek lives at that house......



Looks great!!!!!!

Posted by: rnellums Oct 9 2017, 07:35 PM

Haha. What tipped you off? I'm afraid I infected my roommate too!