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914World.com _ 914World Garage _ new car, first post
Posted by: arsprod May 14 2015, 11:41 AM
Newbie on the 914 board - just bought a '74 2.0 from my uncle (who bought the car new). It's actually in transit from Florida and supposed to arrive tomorrow. In anticipation of its arrival (and my desire to get it on the road asap) I'm looking for some guidance.
The car's been sitting. He started it monthly and let the oil come to temp but other than moving onto the transporter it's really not been run much. I'm planning to change the oil right away and probably flushing brake fluid, inspecting pads, and replacing ignition parts in the next couple weeks. Anything else I should be aware of? I'm not unfamiliar with VW engines but it's been awhile and never owned a 914 (though lusted for years!). Thanks in advance.
Aaron in Indianapolis
Posted by: 76-914 May 14 2015, 12:08 PM
Top quote Cap'n Ron, "Take her out for a spin. If anything is going to happen, it's going to happen out there!" 
Seriously, change the fluids, you'll probably need to change out all the vacuum lines and definitely the fuel lines under the tank, in the engine compartment and the tunnel. Check brakes for functionality and that none of the calipers are frozen up. Check for rust in the longs, beneath the battery, floor behind the seats and floor beneath the pedal cluster. That will keep you busy for a few hours. Then report back.
Posted by: type47 May 14 2015, 12:09 PM
Anything else I should be aware of?
Old fuel lines that crack and possibly leak (whoops, 76-914 mentioned that...). Be prepared for a deluge of welcome to the world and this thread is worthless w/o pix
So I'll start 
Posted by: green914 May 14 2015, 12:16 PM
have fun!
Posted by: montoya 73 2.0 May 14 2015, 01:26 PM
enjoy and ask a lot of questions! Just be careful of what you get in return for a answer! A lot of ass hattery around here!!!! 
Posted by: Stacks914 May 14 2015, 01:31 PM
Posted by: RobW May 14 2015, 01:34 PM
Posted by: JawjaPorsche May 14 2015, 01:36 PM
Welcome to the madness. We are glad you are one of us! 
Posted by: arsprod May 14 2015, 01:45 PM
Wow, I'm under/overwhelmed by the welcome! Sounds like nuthin' special to be worried about other than a 41 year old car (and I've read the battery box horror stories). I promise to add pics when I can - the ones I have are of it in a garage when I went to look it over, with layers of dust - not presentable for 914 connoisseurs. Glad to be a teener... I think!?
Posted by: Ian Stott May 14 2015, 02:34 PM
Clean and repack your bearings as well, if the tires are quite old don't trust them. A big welcome to you, this is the very best place to be for a 914 owner!
Ian Stott
Moncton
Canada
Posted by: Big Len May 14 2015, 02:40 PM
Bet you can't wait. All my uncles had crap cars.
Best of luck
Posted by: Vysoc May 14 2015, 03:25 PM
You are in for the time of your life, I just wish I could see the reaction on your face the first time you get her up to speed and enjoy the handling!! Check your TIRES!!!
Enjoy, listen to this group as they are the best in the world for support, information and education as it pertains to this great, epic sportscar.
The one thing I would say is be prepared to be patient when you shift with the Porsche 901 Transmission, most are fickle, and prefer a pause between gears, this is not a Honda gearbox!
That said the gears are set well for low horsepower momentum driving and you will love the whole experience of driving this gem!!
Again welcome to a great club 
Vysoc 
Posted by: earossi May 14 2015, 04:34 PM
Welcome. The 914 is pretty much a cult car these days; and a very active cult at that! Road safety should be your first focus. So, look for leaks and condition of tires and brakes. If the tires are more than 4 years old, look at them closely for check cracking. If you see any cracking on any single tire......replace all four tires. A tire failure at speed is the last thing you want to have to deal with.
When changing fluids, do not forget to change out the transmission lube. Often overlooked and it will affect shifting..
And, as mentioned, the #1 enemy of 914's is structural rust. So, pay attention to the advice given earlier. Rust in a fender is unsightly and hard to stomach. But, rust in a longitudinal can be life threatening if the long fails catestropohically at speed.
And, lastly, since you live in Indianapolis, think about coming to the BBQ that Garold Shaffer sponsors every year. He is in northern Indiana. You'll meet a great group of 914 owners at that event. The BBQ takes place in August and Garold has an invitation in a thread on this forum. Look for it to get the specifics.
I attended for the first time last year and there were about 20 nice cars there, and an even larger group of owners who did not bring cars (I didn't). This year, I'll bring my /6 conversion car.
Have fun!
Posted by: arsprod May 14 2015, 05:38 PM
Welcome. The 914 is pretty much a cult car these days; and a very active cult at that! Road safety should be your first focus. So, look for leaks and condition of tires and brakes. If the tires are more than 4 years old, look at them closely for check cracking. If you see any cracking on any single tire......replace all four tires. A tire failure at speed is the last thing you want to have to deal with.
Cult!? Holy crap, what have I gotten into? More great info guys and I'm taking notes. I planned to replace the tires straight away, waiting to see what's on it. At the risk of starting a "what oil do you use thread" is there a tire or tires that are common? I know the stock size isn't readily available, thinking I'll go 195/60/15 so interested in brands/models.
Posted by: somd914 May 14 2015, 05:44 PM
Agree with fluid changes, tuneup, brake and tire check as first order of business.
Also agree that rust in the longs can be a killer, typically right side suffers thanks to the battery. Pull the rocker panels to clean out debris and for a good look at the longs.
I'd also get rid of the gas in the tank and fill her up with fresh. I know it was mentioned to examine your fuel lines including those in the tunnel, and if original they are plastic and prone to fail in their old age - plan on installing stainless tunnel lines as a needed upgrade.
Lots to do potentially, but once you start driving her you'll figure out what is good, what is in need of repair at some point, and what needs to be repaired right away.
Not only does he throw a BBQ, Garold is a good source for used parts, and Brad Mayuer of 914 Limited (and a member here) over in Illinois has a good reputation for repairs . And the list goes on and on for members who are also vendors - you'll learn them in time.
Welcome to the madness!
Posted by: rick 918-S May 14 2015, 08:43 PM
Check the tank for surface rust also. It will clog the fuel line screen in the bottom of the tank. and get some pictures! We like pictures! 
Posted by: raw1298 May 14 2015, 09:04 PM
Posted by: Garold Shaffer May 14 2015, 09:39 PM
Another 914 running in Indiana.
welcome to the madness. 
Lots of great people and help here on the world.
I host a BBQ every year. This year will be August 15th. I'm right up I65 in Portage.
Click http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showtopic=254872 for more info.
Posted by: cary May 15 2015, 07:36 AM
Welcome.
My uncle was a hot rodder in the 50's. That's where I got my interest in cars and taking things apart. It was a stretch for my dad to change the oil.
R.I.P. both of them.
Posted by: arsprod May 15 2015, 08:48 AM
Another 914 running in Indiana.
welcome to the madness. Lots of great people and help here on the world.
I host a BBQ every year. This year will be August 15th. I'm right up I65 in Portage.
Click http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showtopic=254872 for more info.
On the calendar Garold, thanks! That gives me a target date to get everything sorted out enough for that long of a drive!!
Posted by: indydad May 15 2015, 09:37 AM
arsprod,
I've been lurking here for MANY years. I am REPAIRING a 1972 1.7 and have used a lot of good information from the posters hers. There are some EXPERTS and some very experienced teeners here. My only advice is to Listen to them, you won't be sorry.
I'm in INDY too, so PM me and we can talk about my experience. Remember, mine is a repair, not a restoration. I am not one of the experts.
Indydad
Posted by: PanelBilly May 15 2015, 09:59 AM
Beer will usually buy you lots of help. I'm not offing my welcome until I see a photo of the car to prove your actually joining the brotherhood
Posted by: Dave_Darling May 15 2015, 03:08 PM
How about a photo of his jack stands??
--DD
Posted by: arsprod May 15 2015, 07:24 PM
OK gents, she's finally here and so are the pics. I won't show the pictures with 10+ years of dust though all I did was a quick wash and vacuum.
Second top, looks like lexan or some other kind of plastic, 
Battery box looks like it's been worked on
Weber conversion
This is the original invoice, pretty expensive for 41 years ago!
I took it out (I know, impatient) and it runs pretty darn good! The only thing I can tell that doesn't work is the temp gauge (or it runs really cold). The tires are in great shape - really surprised. Tomorrow, fluids change
Posted by: zambezi May 15 2015, 07:27 PM
Zambezi green, great color. Looks nice. That is a "saratoga" top and very much sought after. Good score on the car. You will find it drives much better with a different carb setup. Either dual carbs or back to fuel injection.
Posted by: Shadowfax May 15 2015, 07:32 PM
Nice! Interior looks good. Good score!
Posted by: arsprod May 15 2015, 07:53 PM
Zambezi green, great color. Looks nice. That is a "saratoga" top and very much sought after. Good score on the car. You will find it drives much better with a different carb setup. Either dual carbs or back to fuel injection.
I thought original injection was crap (on 74's)?
Posted by: somd914 May 15 2015, 08:10 PM
No jackstands!!! 
Very nice, congrats.
Also concur that a single carb setup is not good. Caution, dual carbs and a stock cam aren't a good mix either.
Posted by: mgp4591 May 15 2015, 09:51 PM
Very nice and looking like it wants to go driving RIGHT NOW! Love the color combination and the steel wheels, very retro and definitely cool! Anxious to see what you've really got once you're into it but looks like you've got a great start. Nice to know there's more of us out there with a sense of humor for these little gems!
Posted by: cggrimes May 15 2015, 10:25 PM
Looks good, beautiful interior. I'm about 40min north of indy if you need any parts I might be able to assist. Or just to pick eachothers brains 
I'm working on an engine for mine at the moment so feel free and welcome!
Posted by: euro911 May 16 2015, 02:55 AM
Your 'new' car appears to have been pretty well kept. I agree on the progressive carb 
… you're leaving HP on the table. Did you get the original FI parts with the car? If not, there are plenty of guys out here that will have parts you'll need to convert back to FI stashed away.
Pretty much all the initial things to check have been covered, but if you experience problems with shifting (be aware, like was said, it isn't a Honda or Toyota), the shift rod bushings may need to be replaced (There are 2 of them - one at the firewall and one at the shift console on the transaxle). They are really cheap too.
Good fortune to you and your new toy - take care of her …
… and …
Posted by: budk May 16 2015, 05:27 AM
Zambezi green, great color. Looks nice. That is a "saratoga" top and very much sought after. Good score on the car. You will find it drives much better with a different carb setup. Either dual carbs or back to fuel injection.
I thought original injection was crap (on 74's)?
A lot of folks didn't understand the FI so when the had problems the simplest thing was to replace it with a carb(s). A working stock FI is a great setup and preferred by many.
Concerning your original question, dont be in a hurry to start replacing everything. Treat it like any other car.... Change the oil and drain the gas and check everything else and replace as needed. Tires can look good but old tires are not safe. Fuel lines don't need to be replaced but many, including me, replace them just to be safe.
Posted by: Jacob May 16 2015, 05:44 AM
Nice car! Like the color.
Posted by: Cairo94507 May 16 2015, 06:39 AM
Terrific color and decent looking car. I would encourage you to find a stock FI set-up and a mechanic (look here for one) who knows the stock set-up intimately so if/when you make that change it is done correctly and runs perfectly, as it should.
Take your time and assess the entire car: structure, safety, electrical, mechanical and cosmetic. Come up with a plan and tackle one project at a time so as not to end up with permanent jack stands rooted under the car.
And again,
Posted by: KELTY360 May 16 2015, 07:15 AM
Way to go! If you've lusted after 914s in the past, you're going to find out why in the future. A well sorted 914 is a blast!
Have you posted the VIN in the forum database? I'm curious about the history of your car because of the bill of sale and your gauges. The bill of sale is dated 12/74 which actually falls in the MY 1975 period, and yet the silver buttons in the center of the gauges indicate it was produced quite early in MY 1974. Apparently it sat around the dealership for quite awhile. Also, with the lack of a center console and steel wheels on a 2.0L, I wonder if the dealer may have scavenged parts from it to go on other cars. I'm sure there's also a story about the Saratoga top in your trunk. There's always a mystery of some sort with these cars.
BTW, the FI in '74 wasn't crap, but many mechanics were. It was a big mystery then, but there is vast experience here who can help you get a reliable system sorted out. I could hear groans from the peanut gallery when they saw the pic of the single carb.
Good luck, have fun, drive it like you stole it...
Posted by: arsprod May 16 2015, 07:52 AM
Way to go! If you've lusted after 914s in the past, you're going to find out why in the future. A well sorted 914 is a blast!
Have you posted the VIN in the forum database? I'm curious about the history of your car because of the bill of sale and your gauges. The bill of sale is dated 12/74 which actually falls in the MY 1975 period, and yet the silver buttons in the center of the gauges indicate it was produced quite early in MY 1974. Apparently it sat around the dealership for quite awhile. Also, with the lack of a center console and steel wheels on a 2.0L, I wonder if the dealer may have scavenged parts from it to go on other cars. I'm sure there's also a story about the Saratoga top in your trunk. There's always a mystery of some sort with these cars.
BTW, the FI in '74 wasn't crap, but many mechanics were. It was a big mystery then, but there is vast experience here who can help you get a reliable system sorted out. I could hear groans from the peanut gallery when they saw the pic of the single carb.
Good luck, have fun, drive it like you stole it...
I'll get the vin posted shortly. The story of the top is pretty simple - this was my uncle's third 914, he'd seen them and bought one for this car. Lucky me he kept it and the car! I had to laugh at the "leaving hp on the table" statement but believe you all that the FI is better. I actually have an old motorcycle with mechanical FI and it's great, although I love carburators. I called my uncle yesterday and his counsel was "drive the shit out of it." That's the plan!
Posted by: Java2570 May 16 2015, 08:11 AM
I live slightly north of Indy as well and have a '74 2.0L. Love the green and looks like a nice car to start with! Get rid of the single carb....nothing wrong with carbs but go with a good set of duals, you could always go back to EFI at some point. I still have my D Jet setup installed and although it is sometimes finicky, it's a good system. Lots of folks here have gone with aftermarket setups like Megasquirt, etc. so you have lots of options to consider. Anyway, I know about enough to be dangerous but I still have fun working on my car.....and there are many smart folks here on this forum so it all works out! Jon
Posted by: arsprod May 16 2015, 08:27 AM
I live slightly north of Indy as well and have a '74 2.0L. Love the green and looks like a nice car to start with! Get rid of the single carb....nothing wrong with carbs but go with a good set of duals, you could always go back to EFI at some point. I still have my D Jet setup installed and although it is sometimes finicky, it's a good system. Lots of folks here have gone with aftermarket setups like Megasquirt, etc. so you have lots of options to consider. Anyway, I know about enough to be dangerous but I still have fun working on my car.....and there are many smart folks here on this forum so it all works out! Jon
Geez, what's north of indy that there are so many 914's?! This is great. I wasn't going to mess with the fuel system but have a megasquirt on my miata track car and now you've piqued my interest!
Posted by: Java2570 May 16 2015, 10:31 AM
It would be a great idea to look at replacing all your rubber fuel hoses as well as the center tunnel hard lines that run through the center tunnel to the gas tank. Also, look at rust inside the fuel tank. Tangerine Racing sells nice stainless steel line sets for fuel and so does Rotary'14 (914World member). I replaced all my lines and cleaned out my tank last summer and was horrified with the condition of all the rubber lines. Ethanol fuels are not kind to rubber lines not rated for it's use....make sure to get 30R9 rubber fuel lines.
We are great at spending your money!! 
Posted by: arsprod May 16 2015, 04:13 PM
It would be a great idea to look at replacing all your rubber fuel hoses as well as the center tunnel hard lines that run through the center tunnel to the gas tank. Also, look at rust inside the fuel tank. Tangerine Racing sells nice stainless steel line sets for fuel and so does Rotary'14 (914World member). I replaced all my lines and cleaned out my tank last summer and was horrified with the condition of all the rubber lines. Ethanol fuels are not kind to rubber lines not rated for it's use....make sure to get 30R9 rubber fuel lines.
We are great at spending your money!!
I'm making a list! Is it a doomsday scenario that the right side jack point wouldn't hold the weight of the car? I was under it quite a while today and don't see much more than surface rust... he says wishfully.
The oil filter was a bitch! I know you purists will scoff but I put a k&n filter on since they have those nifty bolts molded in. I don't want to do that again!
Posted by: earossi May 16 2015, 04:22 PM
It would be a great idea to look at replacing all your rubber fuel hoses as well as the center tunnel hard lines that run through the center tunnel to the gas tank. Also, look at rust inside the fuel tank. Tangerine Racing sells nice stainless steel line sets for fuel and so does Rotary'14 (914World member). I replaced all my lines and cleaned out my tank last summer and was horrified with the condition of all the rubber lines. Ethanol fuels are not kind to rubber lines not rated for it's use....make sure to get 30R9 rubber fuel lines.
We are great at spending your money!!
What makes you blame the degradation of rubber fuel lines on ethanol? You may have ethanol confused with methanol, used years ago, which did attack rubber. At 40 years old I suspect that most rubber is at end of life due to ozone....not ethanol.
Posted by: r_towle May 16 2015, 05:44 PM
Change all your rubber fuel lines.
Two under the gas tank, two from the rear of the firewall, all the injector rubber lines.
Rich
Posted by: euro911 May 17 2015, 12:38 AM
Snap some pix of your right side jack post - preferably with the rocker panel removed so we can have a good look at it. It's probably the most critical area to be concerned with. Hopefully it's only the sleeve and support.
Rust develops in the 'hell-hole' in the engine compartment, it's just forward and below where the battery sits. Water mixes with the acid from the battery's venting and settles in the crevasse (hell-hole), slowly eating at the metal.
From there, the toxic mix travels down the path of least resistance, and settles along the bottom of the longitudinal structural member (affectionally known as the 'long'). This is a condition many 914s suffer from. The factory should have designed the car with a different battery location, but it is what it is.
With today's sealed batteries, the problem isn't as drastic, and some folks relocate their batteries to a front or rear trunk location (and inside a protective container).
Posted by: arsprod May 17 2015, 07:02 AM
Snap some pix of your right side jack post - preferably with the rocker panel removed so we can have a good look at it. It's probably the most critical area to be concerned with. Hopefully it's only the sleeve and support.
Rust develops in the 'hell-hole' in the engine compartment, it's just forward and below where the battery sits. Water mixes with the acid from the battery's venting and settles in the crevasse (hell-hole), slowly eating at the metal.
From there, the toxic mix travels down the path of least resistance, and settles along the bottom of the longitudinal structural member (affectionally known as the 'long'). This is a condition many 914s suffer from. The factory should have designed the car with a different battery location, but it is what it is.
With today's sealed batteries, the problem isn't as drastic, and some folks relocate their batteries to a front or rear trunk location (and inside a protective container).
I misspoke - it's left side (driver's) that's the problem. Right side is fine.
Posted by: rnellums May 17 2015, 07:23 AM
Where were all you indy guys when I was at Purdue! Looks like a great score! It seems a lot of nice 914s got stashed in barns for a long time. I picked this one up out of indy three years ago. Also a 74, with steelies.
Good luck with it, they are great cars!
Posted by: arsprod May 17 2015, 07:27 AM
Where were all you indy guys when I was at Purdue! Looks like a great score! It seems a lot of nice 914s got stashed in barns for a long time. I picked this one up out of indy three years ago. Also a 74, with steelies.
Good luck with it, they are great cars!
Gorgeous! Love that color and I really like the panel stickers. May not be period correct but I'm putting them on this one... after fixing everything else!
Posted by: somd914 May 17 2015, 07:46 AM
Gorgeous! Love that color and I really like the panel stickers. May not be period correct but I'm putting them on this one... after fixing everything else!
The Porsche negative stripes are period correct, but don't sweat it even if they weren't, make the car your car and enjoy it.
Posted by: Java2570 May 17 2015, 08:18 AM
It would be a great idea to look at replacing all your rubber fuel hoses as well as the center tunnel hard lines that run through the center tunnel to the gas tank. Also, look at rust inside the fuel tank. Tangerine Racing sells nice stainless steel line sets for fuel and so does Rotary'14 (914World member). I replaced all my lines and cleaned out my tank last summer and was horrified with the condition of all the rubber lines. Ethanol fuels are not kind to rubber lines not rated for it's use....make sure to get 30R9 rubber fuel lines.
We are great at spending your money!!
What makes you blame the degradation of rubber fuel lines on ethanol? You may have ethanol confused with methanol, used years ago, which did attack rubber. At 40 years old I suspect that most rubber is at end of life due to ozone....not ethanol.
I'm pretty sure that any kind of alcohol will degrade rubber. I'm no expert but I've read this many times and heard it from lots of folks. And for what it's worth, my rubber hoses were replaced in the late 90's by a previous owner...they were not 40 years old. The hoses not rated for ethanol fuel can degrade faster than the 30R9 hoses. I'm not saying it'll happen overnight with non rated hoses but it will happen faster. I could have left my center tunnel plastic lines in place as they were in good condition but I like the peace of mind. I only mentioned it because I would think the OP would want to check the condition of his fuel lines....his may be as old as the car!
Posted by: dabird May 17 2015, 08:57 AM
I've got this one being shipped to me from my mother's house in NY. I'm a bit further south than you in Indiana but it's a another 74 2.0 added to the state
Attached image(s)
Posted by: Java2570 May 17 2015, 09:10 AM
Where were all you indy guys when I was at Purdue! Looks like a great score! It seems a lot of nice 914s got stashed in barns for a long time. I picked this one up out of indy three years ago. Also a 74, with steelies.
Good luck with it, they are great cars!
Ross - I remember meeting you at the Carmel auto show the summer before you moved. Unfortunately, I have not driven my car as much as I'd like to....
The car has been on and off jack stands since I've had it so I've got some real excuses but mostly it's my fault for not driving more.
Posted by: Java2570 May 17 2015, 09:12 AM
Any Indiana people looking for a project...saw this on Samba this weekend in Carmel, IN.
http://www.thesamba.com/vw/classifieds/detail.php?id=1788494
Not my car but I'm pretty sure I saw it driving in Carmel last year. I also saw a Zambezi green car being trailered through Carmel but I have not seen any trace of it since...I should've followed it!
Posted by: arsprod May 17 2015, 04:14 PM
I've got this one being shipped to me from my mother's house in NY. I'm a bit further south than you in Indiana but it's a another 74 2.0 added to the state
Saweet! Mine is originally from Louisville, maybe they're sisters!?
Posted by: arsprod May 17 2015, 04:23 PM
I know I should be sorting out mechanicals but decades worth of dirt and oxidation were driving me nuts. She looks beautiful! Needs a proper, professional buff, polish, and paint touch ups but this is a start.
Thanks for everyone's help and advice. I'll start posting specific questions in separate posts. I love this car!
Posted by: euro911 May 17 2015, 10:49 PM
Snap some pix of your right side jack post - preferably with the rocker panel removed so we can have a good look at it. It's probably the most critical area to be concerned with. Hopefully it's only the sleeve and support. ...
Posted by: arsprod May 18 2015, 08:39 AM
Snap some pix of your right side jack post - preferably with the rocker panel removed so we can have a good look at it. It's probably the most critical area to be concerned with. Hopefully it's only the sleeve and support. ...
Ok ok... I'm reluctant to pull off the panel 1) because the upper middle part of the bumper is a rust mess, 2) I don't want to find out that I have the long's disease, I prefer denial... but will bow to peer pressure. Probably won't be until later in the week
Posted by: Java2570 May 18 2015, 09:33 AM
Aaron - looks like the paint cleaned up very nicely!
Posted by: euro911 May 18 2015, 11:29 AM
… I hope you didn't try jacking the car through the little hole on the left side of the back bumper - that's a towing hook attachment point. The rocker panels run along the bottom of the car on each side between the wheel wells ...Remove the fasteners on the bottom of the panel and gently pull it away from the car without totally removing the panel (there are roughly 10 plastic rivets securing it on the top) - Pull it away just enough to snap a few shots in and around where the jack point is (straight down from where your door handle is). You may need to brush off mud and dirt to get to the metal … road debris has a way of collecting on the jack points.
Posted by: arsprod May 18 2015, 11:58 AM
No, not that stupid (yet). I thought I had to remove the bumper to get the panel off - my fault for reading Haynes manual without looking. That's easier than I thought
Posted by: Han Solo May 18 2015, 12:37 PM
Even if there's little or no rust under the rocker covers - there's certainly dirt and rocks thrown up in there unless the car was never driven. You want to get that junk out because that's what captures the moisture and promotes the rust. There's a couple of other spots prone to that condition - in the front wheel wells behind the door jamb, the rear wheel wells below the sail and all the way to the rear behind the tail lights. Blow those areas out with pressurized air. If the car has dealer applied under coating (called Ziebart back in the day) that stuff is really bad after 40 yrs. with cracking and capturing moisture. Removing it is a major task unfortunately.
That's a good looking 914 and I'm sure you'd like to keep it that way.
Posted by: arsprod May 21 2015, 08:43 AM
Where are the cupholders in this thing?!
Posted by: Java2570 May 21 2015, 09:26 AM
rnellums is making ashtray cupholders that pull out....
http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showtopic=224108
Posted by: Geezer914 May 21 2015, 10:53 AM
Welcome to our world. Change the trans fluid also. I would replace the brake lines and flush the system. Check the calipers and pads, make sure none of the calipers are froze up. Change all the fuel lines, especially the plastic lines in the tunnel. Check the fuel tank for rust and crud. Suspension bushings and shocks later on down the road. You want to be sure the car is safe to drive! They are fun to drive, like a go cart for grownups!
Posted by: struckn May 21 2015, 01:52 PM
Glad you found us, you're in a good crowd.
I'm going to suggest that you follow your Uncle's suggestion, "Drive the heck out of it" for now and hold off swapping out Carb and doing other major changes until you get to know the car. Get a Haynes Manual you'll need one.
Couple things to mention, OIL is the Blood of the 914, don't put the usual off the self Oil from the Store in it as the Oil for an Air Cooled Engine needs to be such that it will help keep it cool. Brad Pen, Swepco, ETC, for example, are made with the specific properties these engines should have.
A single Carb......if the car runs and drives, drive it as is, and down the road if you want to drop $$$$$ in it do it later. (You may find that you have only one fuel line from the tank to the Carb. FI Cars have two lines, the second is a return line. FI Cars run 30lbs of fuel pressure where as cars with Carbs only run 3Lbs of fuel pressure). The fuel lines run through a Tunnel between the Seats so if there's a leak it's a major problem. Stainless Steal Fuel Lines are available.
All for now keep us posted on your progress. We've all been there done that.
Doug
Posted by: Ian Stott May 21 2015, 03:45 PM
Drove to Tangerine Racing on Sunday and back home on Tuesday, 650 miles plus each way. Poured rain on Tuesday AM, wipers on full speed for quite some time, kept speed around 60 MPH. In the afternoon when sun was out and roads were dry picked her up to 70/75 MPH a nice comfortable speed which these cars can do all day long. Takes a bit longer to fill up with gas as people come over and talk to you about your Fiat X 19 or your Fiero, I just let them talk, one guy actually did a good job washing my windshield. Point of this story is to let you know how it can be, all the above info is spot on, I have taken all the advice offered here and appreciate what a great group this is.
A side bar notice!! My good buddy Line Pelletier is in the final 2 of Master Chef Canada, winner to be revealed this weekend. She will be the celebrity chef at a Bistro in Nova Scotia in June and I am organizing a Porsche convoy to go to that dinner! Mmmmmm
Ian Stott
Moncton
Canada
Posted by: arsprod May 21 2015, 04:30 PM
Glad you found us, you're in a good crowd.
I'm going to suggest that you follow your Uncle's suggestion, "Drive the heck out of it" for now and hold off swapping out Carb and doing other major changes until you get to know the car. Get a Haynes Manual you'll need one.
Couple things to mention, OIL is the Blood of the 914, don't put the usual off the self Oil from the Store in it as the Oil for an Air Cooled Engine needs to be such that it will help keep it cool. Brad Pen, Swepco, ETC, for example, are made with the specific properties these engines should have.
A single Carb......if the car runs and drives, drive it as is, and down the road if you want to drop $$$$$ in it do it later. (You may find that you have only one fuel line from the tank to the Carb. FI Cars have two lines, the second is a return line. FI Cars run 30lbs of fuel pressure where as cars with Carbs only run 3Lbs of fuel pressure). The fuel lines run through a Tunnel between the Seats so if there's a leak it's a major problem. Stainless Steal Fuel Lines are available.
All for now keep us posted on your progress. We've all been there done that.
Doug
Thanks and that's my plan. I have a Haynes manual and receipts going back to when he purchased the car. It's amazing how little work was needed over the 41 years.
I thought the oil key was zinc (zddp) like in vr1?
Posted by: arsprod May 23 2015, 06:34 PM
OK gang, finally got the panels off and here are some pics. I don't know what I'm looking for but look pretty good to me
Posted by: Garold Shaffer May 23 2015, 06:38 PM
Not to bad. The jack post areas look to have some rust damage, but NOT a major problem.
Posted by: Porschef May 23 2015, 06:51 PM
Drove to Tangerine Racing on Sunday and back home on Tuesday, 650 miles plus each way. Poured rain on Tuesday AM, wipers on full speed for quite some time, kept speed around 60 MPH. In the afternoon when sun was out and roads were dry picked her up to 70/75 MPH a nice comfortable speed which these cars can do all day long. Takes a bit longer to fill up with gas as people come over and talk to you about your Fiat X 19 or your Fiero, I just let them talk, one guy actually did a good job washing my windshield. Point of this story is to let you know how it can be, all the above info is spot on, I have taken all the advice offered here and appreciate what a great group this is.
A side bar notice!! My good buddy Line Pelletier is in the final 2 of Master Chef Canada, winner to be revealed this weekend. She will be the celebrity chef at a Bistro in Nova Scotia in June and I am organizing a Porsche convoy to go to that dinner! Mmmmmm
Ian Stott
Moncton
Canada
Ian, when in June does this take place?
Posted by: euro911 May 24 2015, 01:55 AM
Yep, you got a little bit of work to do on your jack posts (both sides). Hopefully it's just the supports that need replaced (which are available from Restoration Design).
It would be a good idea to inspect the insides of the longs to be sure everything is good in there anyway. A fairly inexpensive Harbor Freight inspection camera would be the ticket for doing that. There are two oval-shaped rubber plugs on each long inside the passenger compartment that the camera can be inserted into. You'll need to lift the carpet on the longs to expose the plugs (one is forward, one is aft). By viewing your pix, I'd say you only need to look rearward through the aft openings - the fronts look pretty sound.
Posted by: arsprod May 24 2015, 07:05 AM
I can tell where guys live from their response to rust! You Cali guys wouldn't get my excitement, dare I say elation, when I saw this. That's not rust - just a little Midwest strong dirt!! Kidding aside short-term I'm going to coat it with ospho and put the jack posts on the 'to order' list.
Posted by: Han Solo May 24 2015, 07:29 AM
I can tell where guys live from their response to rust! You Cali guys wouldn't get my excitement, dare I say elation, when I saw this. That's not rust - just a little Midwest strong dirt!! Kidding aside short-term I'm going to coat it with ospho and put the jack posts on the 'to order' list.
Excellent. You'll save yourself a lot of trouble by doing so. It makes me wonder why Porsche didn't have rocker cover removal and cleaning as a maintenance item. Probably because these cars weren't supposed to last 40 years.
Posted by: euro911 May 25 2015, 01:45 AM
I was going by what you posted previously, Aaron:
... and although they don't look too bad for where you're located (you're very fortunate to have very little rust), if they made a crunching noise and didn't feel solid whist attempting to lift the car, they're not going to get better as time goes by. Short term, OK, but don't wait years is all I'm saying.
Posted by: arsprod May 25 2015, 07:19 AM
... and although they don't look too bad for where you're located (you're very fortunate to have very little rust), if they made a crunching noise and didn't feel solid whist attempting to lift the car, they're not going to get better as time goes by. Short term, OK, but don't wait years is all I'm saying.
No disrespect of sage wisdom intended! You're absolutely right that I need to address it and I will. I'm just thrilled it's not imminent disaster and I can keep driving!!
Posted by: euro911 May 25 2015, 11:08 AM
Posted by: Philip W. May 26 2015, 06:50 AM
Zambezi green, great color. Looks nice. That is a "saratoga" top and very much sought after. Good score on the car. You will find it drives much better with a different carb setup. Either dual carbs or back to fuel injection.
I thought original injection was crap (on 74's)?
No, original injection is the way to go, if you want the best MPG and performance. with that said, if the car drives right now, enjoy some seat time while you address other more pressing issue such as your fuel lines, and brakes. Since you will have the car stored in the winter, plan for some other work this winter when you cant drive it.
Glad you found us, you're in a good crowd.
I'm going to suggest that you follow your Uncle's suggestion, "Drive the heck out of it" for now and hold off swapping out Carb and doing other major changes until you get to know the car. Get a Haynes Manual you'll need one.
Couple things to mention, OIL is the Blood of the 914, don't put the usual off the self Oil from the Store in it as the Oil for an Air Cooled Engine needs to be such that it will help keep it cool. Brad Pen, Swepco, ETC, for example, are made with the specific properties these engines should have.
A single Carb......if the car runs and drives, drive it as is, and down the road if you want to drop $$$$$ in it do it later. (You may find that you have only one fuel line from the tank to the Carb. FI Cars have two lines, the second is a return line. FI Cars run 30lbs of fuel pressure where as cars with Carbs only run 3Lbs of fuel pressure). The fuel lines run through a Tunnel between the Seats so if there's a leak it's a major problem. Stainless Steal Fuel Lines are available.
All for now keep us posted on your progress. We've all been there done that.
Doug
Thanks and that's my plan. I have a Haynes manual and receipts going back to when he purchased the car. It's amazing how little work was needed over the 41 years.
I thought the oil key was zinc (zddp) like in vr1?
yes, Valvoline VR1 racing oil 20/50 is what i have been using for some time- it has the proper ZPPD and excellent ratings for wear with this type of engine. others have used other brands such as Bradd Penn or Joe Gibbs racing oil.
BTW i would also do the gear oil. My car had some crappy shifting when i got it and whent to drain and change the gear oil and none came out LOL! it was that low, - be ready for the seals which have then dried out to leak, but all hese things can be worked out over time.
- btw, my car spent over half its life in indiana and ohio, and that is why i also have jack point rust!!
-that rust can be easily fixed and you have a guy not far from you in indiana Brad Mayer(914LTD) who is one of the most experienced in this community .
Posted by: arsprod May 26 2015, 08:55 PM
-that rust can be easily fixed and you have a guy not far from you in indiana Brad Mayer(914LTD) who is one of the most experienced in this community .
Thanks! I think I "met" Mr Meyer through another 914 owner in Indy. He sent me pics of his car getting rust fixed... how weird is that?!
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