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914World.com _ 914World Garage _ What prevents you from saying "#$@%-it "
Posted by: Mueller Dec 5 2005, 03:02 PM
Not sure if its the weather, lack of progress, knowing my 914 will never be how I really want it or my boarder-line A.D.D. 
But it's been really, really hard not just post an ad on here or on craigslist and sell it all off......I think a lot of it has to do with me having so much extra cr@p such as about 10 extra pairs of a-arms 
as well as most people have all the other "extras" laying around collecting dust and filling up boxes.
I know I'd take a hit money wise on dumping it all off, but what the heck, it's not like my 914 is going to go up in value 
Posted by: Aaron Cox Dec 5 2005, 03:03 PM
i hit that point many times....
then i take a long drive......
Posted by: Dr. Roger Dec 5 2005, 03:05 PM
one word.
Fahrvergnügen.
Posted by: Andyrew Dec 5 2005, 03:05 PM
feel better now?
Me? I want to finish my 914. drive it for 2 years, store it in a vault, finish college, get married, have a kid, then when they are 5, bring the car out, and tinker.
While having other cars to tinker with. but still having the "ultimate street racer"
I rather dont want to get rid of my car.....
Posted by: bondo Dec 5 2005, 03:06 PM
For me, I just say "At least I'm not Mueller!", heave a sigh of relief, and move on.
Seriously though... Just do a crap purge. Sell or give away parts you will never use. Get all the stuff you actually may need organized, and you will feel much better. I just did this and already need to do it again. 
Posted by: Howard Dec 5 2005, 03:06 PM
What prevents you from saying "#$@%-it ", and selling your 914(s) and walking away
1. Never figured out how to pronounce it.
2. Aaron is right. Drive it.
3. Or put it away for a few days.
Posted by: lapuwali Dec 5 2005, 03:06 PM
It's harder still when the car can't be driven. I have thought a few times about selling this one to buy one that someone else has gotten into a better state already, like at least it's all one color. I know I'd get another one even if I did sell this one, and I know I'd lose more money on the deal, so I end up keeping it.
Posted by: r_towle Dec 5 2005, 03:07 PM
Mike, dont give up.
One Autocross is all it will take, or one mountain road..
Get someone to let you drive a well prepared 2.0 liter and you will smile and keep working...
Rich
Posted by: olav Dec 5 2005, 03:16 PM
I'll take you for a ride in my car Mike and then I'll add the roller bearings and take you for another ride so we can see the difference.
Posted by: nine14cats Dec 5 2005, 03:20 PM
Hi Mike,
I'd have to say at this point I'm pretty much in the same boat as you as far as just wanted to clean up the mess of parts I have for my 914's and get on with life. As you know, I gave up on tracking a 914 anytime soon (maybe forever) and will just assemble The Beast and see if someone wants it for a good price.
JLO may not go as easy, but at this point, probably (after I finish building her).
It probably depends on which way life is taking you at that point in time. Hang in there.
Bill P.
Posted by: GTeener Dec 5 2005, 03:21 PM
Been there a few times. Usually a good day driving her changes my mind...until something else breaks and then I think of selling her again 
The I realize how much money is already invested and what will be lost if I sell her....like my affiliation with the club and fine members. And well, I guess I'm just not ready to sacrifice all that yet.
Ultimately it must be the masochist is me that keeps me holding on 
There are worse addictions
Posted by: watsonrx13 Dec 5 2005, 03:22 PM
I have now driven my car for the first time in 3 years. I bought the car with it drivable, but issues with the engine. Before I bought the car, I had a 'shop' built so that I could work on it. I also purchased 2 other parts cars. I fiddled with the parts cars, to get experience, then worked on the good one.
The way that I was able to continue with the project was by working on small manageable sections. I also had an arrangement with my wife, she would get one weekend day and we would do anything she wanted. I got the other day to work on the car. Fortunately for me, I am able to set my own work hours. I get up at 4:30 am and I'm at work by 6. I leave by 2 pm and several times a week I'll drop by the shop and do something. If you can list everything you want to do to the car, prioritize it. Then work on it a little at a time. Don't look at the big picture, but the small ones. Keep moving forward. If you run into something you can't/won't do, call for help here.
I still have the outside of the car to paint, but at least it is drivable and I feel it is in great shape, suspension/chassis/etc.
Hope this helps....hang in there.....
-- Roib
Posted by: fiid Dec 5 2005, 03:26 PM
I've been to the brink. I'm glad noone wanted to buy it because I would have sold it.
When the boost kicks in - it's just ..... spectacular. When I turn in to a corner and the car stays dead flat and just grips, it's magic. The feel of bearings that you designed ironing out every bump in the freeway.... awesome.
We were just outside letting the thing idle so I could show a couple of coworkers. Just gives me a shit-eating grin every time. Listening to the megasquirt tweaking the idle settings.
And last but not least - just knowing that there is a shed-load of torque and HP just sitting there waiting for my fingers and my laptop to unleash them.
Get it running first, then decide.
Posted by: Headrage Dec 5 2005, 03:29 PM
I'm at that point right now as well. When I figure out why I shouldn't sell it and move on I'll send you a pm...
Posted by: Toast Dec 5 2005, 03:30 PM
Not driving it. 
Posted by: Rand Dec 5 2005, 03:33 PM
| QUOTE |
| What prevents you from saying "#$@%-it ", and selling your 914(s) and walking away |
Simple. It's my favorite car and I enjoy working on it as much as any other hobby. Otherwise it would be a complete waste of my time.
Posted by: Aaron Cox Dec 5 2005, 03:39 PM
im suffering from withdrawls....
no car for the last month. no car for the next month id guess (time to reassemble???)
but its all about the journey mike.... the end result makes you say "wow. look at what i did!. X years and Xponential dollars and its done"
"Crap.....an oil leak " 
Posted by: markb Dec 5 2005, 03:48 PM
I sent my car to the body shop in July, and have been driving the POS black car since then. I now appreciate how well the blue car was running, how well it handled, etc. When it comes back I still have to clean up all the dirty parts to put them back on before I can drive it. By the time it's in running condition again, I'll appreciate it that much more.
I've been there, I had to give up on the Dad's car project, due to many factors, but mostly because the longer it sits unprotected from the elements, the rustier it gets. And there's no way I can get it to the shop in the forseeablee future.
Personal Opinion:
Simplify what you're doing with the injection (go to stock if you have to). Get it running. Drive the pi$$ out of it. THEN start the upgrades again. Once you can drive it around & enjoy it, things will look better. Either that or put it under a tarp & walk away for a few months. The bug will get you back to working on it in no time. Just my .02.
Posted by: tat2dphreak Dec 5 2005, 03:51 PM
take some time off, you can get frustrated if you have any type of deadlines... that's the way I am anyway...
Posted by: SLITS Dec 5 2005, 03:51 PM
I'm to lazy to inventory the shit and sell it................
Posted by: Dave Bell Dec 5 2005, 03:55 PM
My past practice was to keep one car drivable and then have another one to tinker on... best of both worlds since a basic 914 is really not that expensive... best of both worlds... always have one to drive and one to dream/tinker with.... My wife fixed that when she crushed the second car with our truck... at least she did not get the good one.... my current job assignement keeps me way to busy... thinking of giving it up in 6 months to a year to get back some free time... for stuff like upfixing the 914.
Yea and I have stacks of stuff too.... I think I am down to 2 sets of trailing arms having throne some away.
I did a major purge about 4 months ago when a neighbor rented the biggest roll-off bin available... Andy S. came by while I was cutting up a roller in the driveway... which mostly went in to the bin.
So my advice to Mike... (1) Do a parts purge... (2) build, buy, steal, obtain a 914 that you can drive and not modify any more... one you can enjoy... get a second car that you can tinker on... or not tinker on and not feel frustrated since you still have one you can drive.... If it doesn't fit in the garage... nice excuse to buy one of those nice lift systems that should easily be able to stack up 2 914's in a single garage space. If it gets too expensive... just go help someone else tinker on their car... very low cost intertainment.... 2 weekends ago I was at Andy's house to install 3 of his 4 fiberglass flares... very intertaining... didn't cost me a thing.
- Dave
Posted by: VegasRacer Dec 5 2005, 03:57 PM
Mike - If you are looking for logic and reason, I have none to offer. It is passion and emotion that insures I will always have a 914. It is one of those "If you have to ask, you wouldn't understand" things. You know what I mean. I know you do.
Now quit with this crazy talk and get back to work. 
If you need a serious fix, have some one take you for a ride in their 914.
Posted by: McMark Dec 5 2005, 03:57 PM
Mike, you and I are so similar it's kinda weird sometimes. We both tend to over think things which ends up leading to bigger and bigger projects. For me, and I think for you too, it's time to get back to basics. It's time to get rid of all the non-essentials and focus on the car. Imagine a clear uncluttered garage with just one single project to work on. It's very overwhelming to go out into a garage to work on something and subconsciously you're thinking about the ten other projects that aren't getting finished. It's a real buzz-kill. Call me if you need to vent.
Posted by: rick 918-S Dec 5 2005, 03:57 PM
Two words, This club.
Posted by: Lou W Dec 5 2005, 03:57 PM
The last time I drove my car was 13 years ago, I took it apart 11 years ago and now its been on jackstands for the last 3 years. I'd feel real guilty taking a perfectly good car apart and and selling it as a basket case or in pieces. So... whenever I want to give up, I close the garage door or put a cover on it and just give it a break. Following the progress of some of the members is a true inspiration for me to get back to work on it. Buying parts here and there that I'll need keeps me motivated to finish the job too.
Posted by: Spoke Dec 5 2005, 04:39 PM
After having relatively new cars for the last 15 years, I forgot the joy and sense of accomplishment of actually working on a car. Today's cars with computer management and ABS and such really can't be worked on without a computer. I try to work on things such that I can keep the car on the road as much as possible.
I'm also in love with the fact that driving the 914 is such a blast. It is my daily driver when it doesn't rain or snow. I've waited so long to buy a sports car that I couldn't imagine not having a sports car to drive. As my neighbor said, "looks like you're driving your mid-life crisis". Yep, and having a good time at it.
The only things I need now for the 914 is a new engine (1.7L from 1971 is a turd now) and solid longs (just ordered Engman's inner long kit) 
Spoke
Posted by: Bruce Allert Dec 5 2005, 04:52 PM
BIN THERE... DID T H A T
However, I do miss the feel of how it drove.
But the Miata starts everytime & keeps on tick'n 
BWAAAAAHHHAAHAAHAA 
........b
Posted by: Mueller Dec 5 2005, 04:57 PM
| QUOTE (Bruce Allert @ Dec 5 2005, 03:52 PM) |
| But the Miata starts everytime & keeps on tick'n BWAAAAAHHHAAHAAHAA ........b |
don't tell anyone but I test drove (for the 2nd time in a month) a new RX-5 (Miata) last Wednesday
Posted by: Mark Henry Dec 5 2005, 05:02 PM
| QUOTE (McMark @ Dec 5 2005, 05:57 PM) |
| Mike, you and I are so similar it's kinda weird sometimes. We both tend to over think things which ends up leading to bigger and bigger projects. For me, and I think for you too, it's time to get back to basics. It's time to get rid of all the non-essentials and focus on the car. Imagine a clear uncluttered garage with just one single project to work on. It's very overwhelming to go out into a garage to work on something and subconsciously you're thinking about the ten other projects that aren't getting finished. It's a real buzz-kill. Call me if you need to vent. |
That make's three of us...The Brothers Grim
Posted by: black73 Dec 5 2005, 05:02 PM
I was at that point about a year ago. But a few more $$$ and a few more busted knuckles, and I was good to go. Don't give up it will all work out in the end.
Posted by: Bleyseng Dec 5 2005, 05:06 PM
Its almost been a year since I drove mine and I have been pretty frustrated at times.
I won't give up as so far nothing I have driven is a fun as the 914. Shoot, Blair even has one sitting in the yard now......I don't think the neighbors have seen it yet.
Shit Mike, you just miss the crazy adventures with Bradholio! 
Posted by: SirAndy Dec 5 2005, 05:09 PM
| QUOTE (Mueller @ Dec 5 2005, 02:02 PM) |
| post an ad on here or on craigslist and sell it all off...... |
hey, cool!
i need the long wing-screw that holds down the 1.7L air cleaner and a brain-mounting-bracket ...
Andy
Posted by: Joe Ricard Dec 5 2005, 05:09 PM
Mike I got just the thing to fix you up.
Our next Autocross is 18 December. You get down here and you can drive the Red Neck Racer. That should fix you and motivate you to GET YOUR CAR DONE.
Posted by: vortrex Dec 5 2005, 05:11 PM
| QUOTE (Bruce Allert @ Dec 5 2005, 02:52 PM) |
| BIN THERE... DID T H A T However, I do miss the feel of how it drove. But the Miata starts everytime & keeps on tick'n BWAAAAAHHHAAHAAHAA ........b |
I'm with bruce. you know there are other cars out there that handle better than a 914 (and can pass a mini van on the highway when needed).
I actually had great luck with my 914 and the MANY miles I put on it. the 1-2 times it gave me problems though were not fun, especially when it was my only car. right now, I just have no interest in working/staring at a car. I would rather turn the key and be off whenever I want without the worry of a break down.
and at the rate of 914 prices, I'm not so sure I will have another...
Posted by: tommy914 Dec 5 2005, 05:15 PM
| QUOTE (Mueller @ Dec 5 2005, 04:57 PM) |
| don't tell anyone but I test drove (for the 2nd time in a month) a new RX-5 (Miata) last Wednesday :o |
If you are looking at new Miatas, at least take a look at a good used Boxster. Boxster is more like the 914, but with all modern stuff.
Posted by: ws91420 Dec 5 2005, 05:27 PM
There are two things that keep me going.
The fact that when I'm done I will have something that not everybody will and I did most
of it myself.
And the fact that my Dad who passed away in 1991 gave me the knowledge and the
passion to work on a car for myself.
Posted by: ArtechnikA Dec 5 2005, 05:29 PM
donno.
sold it.
walked away.
Posted by: Vacca Rabite Dec 5 2005, 05:37 PM
Walk away? Shoot, I just started here!
Sometimes I walk in and see the things that ihave to do and feel a little overwhelmed, but I still have the youthfull exuberance about it.
Plus, I like mechanical hobbies, so long as I can keep the spending in check.
Zach
Posted by: J P Stein Dec 5 2005, 05:57 PM
I'm luckier than some, I think.
The 914 is in the shop & if it pisses me off, I don't have to stumble over it all the time. It's been pretty grim on a few occasions. Up on blocks for nearly a year when I was doing the conversion....in my garage, pre shop... & when I was painting it last year come to mind. My family laughs at me when I have 3-4 projects in the air at once, but they seem to forget I do (eventually) get em' done. As I've said before, being stubborn helps.
The 914 is the same.
The luck part is when I fix the car( tho it ain't broke), it stays fixed till it ain't broke again . It's a seasonal thing, the leaves fall off the trees & the shit box goes up on blocks. The leaves come out in the spring & so does the car. DIY is fun, but some reward is required....for me at least.
Posted by: Kargeek Dec 5 2005, 06:00 PM
I’ve asked this question many times over the 26 years I’ve owned my car. First during the six years I had it apart and then over the seventeen years I’ve had the car completed. During the last five values are finally catching up so, I don’t have that reason anymore. Having a car that you can tinker with, enjoying the information that other club members are sharing with their cars, driving something unique (whether it’s a daily driver or a weekend car) is something really special. Look at the big picture in that it’s only a hobby, never think that it’s an investment or that your soul is tied to the car and just have some fun with it. I know lot’s of guys that buy-sell car after car, never taking things too seriously and just have a good time with the hobby. ( wish I could be that that but, cars are part of my family) If you get bored with the Porsche thing find another brand- same emotional issues are going on with XYZ brand enthusiast.
Set you plan for what you want and finish the car to the plan’s expectations and just have fun.
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Posted by: Jeroen Dec 5 2005, 06:11 PM
Face it... if it makes sense, it's no fun
I will succeed (or die trying )
Posted by: Robert21 Dec 5 2005, 06:21 PM
When i think of sell my car . i just think about the money i have in the car.
Then i think of putting it for up for sale, You guys looking at it and saying this is wrong ,that is wrong.
And then offer $4000. I didn't get into this car to make money. just to have fun.
I could buy a new porsche but thats no fun i like old cars they have a soul .
I'm going to drive this car even with all the problems until i die
just my thinking.
Robert21
Posted by: qa1142 Dec 5 2005, 06:23 PM
Never do bigger project than you can finish during the cold ass winter here
And drive the shit out of it durring summer 
Posted by: scotty b Dec 5 2005, 06:29 PM
| QUOTE (Mark Henry @ Dec 5 2005, 03:02 PM) | ||
That make's three of us...The Brothers Grim |
4. I've currently got my dads 914, my 944 a 36 h.p. VW engine build + 3 customers cars at werk. Haven't touched the 914 in about 3 weeks, prior to that it was about 4 months. Haven't touched the 944 in 2 weeks, prior to that it was 2 months. VW engine is my Sunday project for 3 weeks now, customers cars are the only ones that get any werk done 
Posted by: Bruce Allert Dec 5 2005, 10:23 PM
| QUOTE (vortrex @ Dec 5 2005, 04:11 PM) | ||
I'm with bruce. you know there are other cars out there that handle better than a 914 (and can pass a mini van on the highway when needed). I actually had great luck with my 914 and the MANY miles I put on it. the 1-2 times it gave me problems though were not fun, especially when it was my only car. right now, I just have no interest in working/staring at a car. I would rather turn the key and be off whenever I want without the worry of a break down. and at the rate of 914 prices, I'm not so sure I will have another... QUOTE (Mueller @ Dec 5 2005, 04:57 PM) don't tell anyone but I test drove (for the 2nd time in a month) a new RX-5 (Miata) last Wednesday |
If ya take all the $$$ spent on our 914's and put it toward a $4000 low mile Miata, add headers ($400), a cold air intake ($200), a 2 1/4" exhaust system with a Magnaflow or Borla muffler ($300) there's a $4900 140+ hp jackrabbit that has the capability to run 250,000+ miles if you take care of the engine properly. Now, add a DIY bolt on kit Jackson Racing supercharger ($2300) & that'll boost the hp 40%. There ya got a 200+ hp car for a lot less than what I or most others have put into our 914's.
But, before I'm gonna add that supercharger I'm goin for the adjustable Koni/ shocks & springs package ($500). Then I'll be right back "ON RAILS"
Think about it... $8000. I had alot more in the 914.
I admit I had mega fun with it until the last 6 months and it's last engine.
Truthfully, I'll probably get another 914.... later, but not now
I'll always love the 914
.......b
Posted by: Leo Imperial Dec 5 2005, 10:26 PM
#$@%-it
#$@%-it
#$@%-it
And that is all I have to say for now!!!
Posted by: porsha916 Dec 5 2005, 10:26 PM
I feel the same way once in a while , But then I come to my senses, I think the 914 is the best production sports car ever built!!! 914's are not to expensive, and you can have any level of performance you want. You can have a v8 rocket, a 1.7L daily driver, classic car you drive to shows, a radical custom car, a racer or something in between!!! Get a Driver and then build your dream car!!
I have found I enjoy helping other fix there cars! I have more projects than I could ever finish but I guess I like it that way or I would do something about it!!
Posted by: boxstr Dec 5 2005, 10:30 PM
Mike go out and buy a Boxster and a Go Kart. Then quit bitchin.
CCLINFUNDRIVE
Posted by: Bruce Allert Dec 5 2005, 10:37 PM
| QUOTE (boxstr @ Dec 5 2005, 09:30 PM) |
| Mike go out and buy a Boxster and a Go Kart. Then quit bitchin. CCLINFUNDRIVE |
......b
Posted by: LvSteveH Dec 5 2005, 10:46 PM
Think of it this way, the more you put into something, the more you will get out of it. You will have such an overwhelming appreciation for having a running car that it will make it all worth while. It will also make you think twice about being too ambitious with projects….. I’ve learned that one recently. I have $30k+ worth of 914 crap, and am thrilled to death to be flogging 70hp around. I agree that the best approach is to have two 914’s, one in project mode, one in driver mode, at all times. What fun would life be if we didn’t have something to bitch about, you’ve got 4,000 other people in the club to commiserate with…….. priceless.
Posted by: jimtab Dec 5 2005, 10:46 PM
| QUOTE (rick 918-S @ Dec 5 2005, 01:57 PM) |
| Two words, This club. |
IT'S NOT A CLUB....!
Posted by: boxstr Dec 5 2005, 10:52 PM
You mean they have a club for these things....what will they think of next.
CCLIN
Posted by: jimtab Dec 5 2005, 10:57 PM
The fact that I'm a piss-poor mechanic and I finally have come to terms with that, and that this is my 5th 914, and I'm over the worst of the "boy racer" deal. Couple that with a lucky buy of a solid car and my Los Panchos thing (thank you Mike) and I'm just happy to have one that gets down the road, it's fast enough to scare the shit out of me occasionally and now that it's been "reabilitated" I even get an occasional thumbs up from the hoi-palloi....I love the damn thing. What can I say....quit fixin em and start drivin em..... 
Posted by: Mueller Dec 5 2005, 11:19 PM
I think I'm over my funk....figured out that I can get my garage back to a more useable space by a combination of some stealth backyard storage compartments......going to build some "planter boxes" that'll hold a few storage shelfs worth of stuff....about 2'x2'x20' which should help somewhat...that and tossing or giving away a lot of items that I know I'll never need again or if I do, I know they'll be cheap enough not to worry about having to buy 'em....
I figure I'll be more of a cool dad with the 914 when it comes to dropping off or picking up the future rug rats when they get older
Posted by: Korijo Dec 5 2005, 11:33 PM
| QUOTE |
| What prevents you from saying "#$@%-it " |
Posted by: Porcharu Dec 6 2005, 12:47 AM
Hey Mike,
Your going to NEED the 914 (and those other shop toys) for your time outs with the twins. I know I am going to need mine and I only have one kid on the way. I hope I can get alot done in one hour "time outs". I like the planter box idea. You should see some of my 10lbs of crap in a 5 lb box storage ideas that I am just finishing up.
Posted by: Andyrew Dec 6 2005, 12:52 AM
| QUOTE (Mueller @ Dec 5 2005, 10:19 PM) |
| I figure I'll be more of a cool dad with the 914 when it comes to dropping off or picking up the future rug rats when they get older |
Your DAMN right.
Im really glad dad got his car when I was in 7th grade.
Got me hooked. Got me out of the whatever that grade nitch that geeks and nerds get it.
I'll tell ya, Being picked up and dropped off in that car for a dance did wonders for my self confidence...
Now I drive the race car around, in a new leather jacket, with my MP3 player in my pocket, laptop in the other seat, and sometimes the girlfriend sitting next to me.
When It hits the boost, my homework troubles just melt away.....
Andrew
Posted by: PatW Dec 6 2005, 03:55 AM
| QUOTE (Mueller @ Dec 5 2005, 01:02 PM) |
| Not sure if its the weather, lack of progress, knowing my 914 will never be how I really want it or my boarder-line A.D.D. :wacko: |
Sold my 914
big mistake. At least I sold to someone here. Don't do it mike. Its not like you'll have much time to work on it very soon? You'll still be kicking yourself if you do. I need another 914. I'll look for another one as soon as my pickup is sold.
Posted by: blitZ Dec 6 2005, 06:38 AM
Likewise, I just got started. Removed the interior and nasty old sound pad, the hard part. Started adding new interior parts and seeing the results is very motivating.
This board is also inspirational. My next project is to have this hood emblem installed.
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Posted by: Dead Air Dec 6 2005, 07:09 AM
The car was a birthday present for my girl friend, so it's not mine to sell. But my name is on the title 
And finding pictures like this on the "Club":
How things could be in a perfect world!
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Posted by: pfierb Dec 6 2005, 08:02 AM
Let me see in my time I have owned
2 Fiat 124 spyders
3 Alfa Romeo spyders
1E type Jaguar roadster
1 Porsche 944
1 Porsche 944 turbo
1 Sunbeam Alpine
1 Fiat 128
2Triumph TR-7s
1 Saab monte Carlo
assorted Mustangs,Camaros,VWs,SUVs,Sedans,Motorcycles,Pickup trucks plus many other forgetable cars.
But have never owned a car that was as much fun to drive as my Zambezi green 73 2.0 914 even with it's idiosyncrasies.Went to the local super market with it Saturday and as I was getting in it a 20 something year old with a cell phone came running over and said hey that is the coolest looking car I have seen in a long time.....well that kinda helps to make your day.This car is the most bang for the buck ever.
Dont get rid of your car you will regret it.
Posted by: jimtab Dec 6 2005, 08:32 AM
| QUOTE (pfierb @ Dec 6 2005, 06:02 AM) |
| Let me see in my time I have owned 2 Fiat 124 spyders 3 Alfa Romeo spyders 1E type Jaguar roadster 1 Porsche 944 1 Porsche 944 turbo 1 Sunbeam Alpine 1 Fiat 128 2Triumph TR-7s 1 Saab monte Carlo assorted Mustangs,Camaros,VWs,SUVs,Sedans,Motorcycles,Pickup trucks plus many other forgetable cars. But have never owned a car that was as much fun to drive as my Zambezi green 73 2.0 914 even with it's idiosyncrasies.Went to the local super market with it Saturday and as I was getting in it a 20 something year old with a cell phone came running over and said hey that is the coolest looking car I have seen in a long time.....well that kinda helps to make your day.This car is the most bang for the buck ever. Dont get rid of your car you will regret it. |
Lemme see, 73....me, 2.0.....me, zambezi green, me....hell I'm really close on this one....and I agree, I've had lots of cars, faster and slower over 40 plus years of driving and I keep coming back to the 914....I must be defective I guess....
Posted by: 0396 Dec 6 2005, 08:51 AM
| QUOTE (Mueller @ Dec 5 2005, 01:02 PM) |
| Not sure if its the weather, lack of progress, knowing my 914 will never be how I really want it or my boarder-line A.D.D. But it's been really, really hard not just post an ad on here or on craigslist and sell it all off......I think a lot of it has to do with me having so much extra cr@p such as about 10 extra pairs of a-arms as well as most people have all the other "extras" laying around collecting dust and filling up boxes.I know I'd take a hit money wise on dumping it all off, but what the heck, it's not like my 914 is going to go up in value |
Mike,
KNOW the feeling.. just this part weekend, I was driving my -6 and still trying to get the bugs out!!
I was wondering it I should 1) keep it and fix the bugs myself 2) take it to some one and just pay to have it all fixed 3) sell the thing and move on the my other cars.
Losing patience with this car... don't have all the time to tinker with it.. now that winter is here, you know Whistler is calling me.
ps Some times I think my neighbor must think I'm nuts- working on my -6 every weekend - looks like I have no life except for the cars.
Posted by: pfierb Dec 6 2005, 09:38 AM
| QUOTE (jimtab @ Dec 6 2005, 10:32 AM) | ||
Lemme see, 73....me, 2.0.....me, zambezi green, me....hell I'm really close on this one....and I agree, I've had lots of cars, faster and slower over 40 plus years of driving and I keep coming back to the 914....I must be defective I guess.... |
Heck you are just a kid I have 60years of driving experience first one 1947 Dodge business coupe how's that for an exciting car? and I know I am defective.
Posted by: DNHunt Dec 6 2005, 09:40 AM
The only thing that keeps me going is I hate to quit. Last weekend I would have given it away. I couldn't start the new engine. Checked the spark, it was fine. I found out that injector bank 2 (cylinders 2 and 4) had no fuel. I checked and rechecked the harness and it checked out fine. I pulled the fuel injection out of it and started checking things. Inj2 wasn't firing until 350 rpms on the stim. There was no juice on the driver for that bank. I was ready to tear out the driver and replace it then I stumbled onto an obscure post that says injector bank 2 can be turned off during cranking. Sure enough, I had them turned off. Luckily, I didn't keep cranking and cranking, there should still be some assemmbly lube in there.
Damn MS, why the hell would there be an option like that.
Now, I should have it up and running in a couple of hours.
Dave
Posted by: Mark Henry Dec 6 2005, 09:46 AM
That made me laugh a bit!
I stored my teen at my dads last winter...went to start it in the spring and no go. WTF it was running perfect when I parked it!
I forgot that I set the RPM fuel cut (rev limiter) at 500rpm in case someone tried to steal it.
Only took me a 1/2 hour to figure it out. 
Posted by: GWN7 Dec 6 2005, 10:07 AM
| QUOTE (Mueller @ Dec 5 2005, 01:02 PM) |
| Not sure if its the weather, lack of progress, knowing my 914 will never be how I really want it or my boarder-line A.D.D. But it's been really, really hard not just post an ad on here or on craigslist and sell it all off......I think a lot of it has to do with me having so much extra cr@p such as about 10 extra pairs of a-arms as well as most people have all the other "extras" laying around collecting dust and filling up boxes.I know I'd take a hit money wise on dumping it all off, but what the heck, it's not like my 914 is going to go up in value |
It will be 6 months before I can drive mine again. Winter will be over in May. That is if I can figure out what the kid did to it on it's last trip out (came home on the back of a hook....trans or clutch?).
The memorys of when I last drove it (the good and the bad) keep the drive alive. Medicine Hat McD's where the guy made the "guys who drive those cars have small dicks" comment to his buddy and their girl friends and I knocked on the window and I shook my head, then held my hands about a foot apart and grinned like a fool. The shade of red he turned was priceless. Or the Mustang GT that the salesman was trying to sell when I blew past them twice on the highway near Brandon, MB in a 30 yr old car. The look on the 10 yr olds face when I opened up the front hood to put gas in and there was no motor....
A journey of many miles starts with one step....
A great 914 starts with the turn of one wrench......
Posted by: RON S. Dec 6 2005, 10:13 AM
The thing that keeps me going,is all the @#$%^ money I've poured into it.
If I quit,I'd never here the end of it.
Now that I do have it running,I can finally smell,and hear the sweet sound of success.
I also got something that no-one,and the Ron means no-one,in my area can lay claim to also having.
Ron
Posted by: Goge Dec 6 2005, 10:30 AM
My daughters (7 and 9 yrs old) won't let me get rid of it. They think it's the coolest thing in the world. Even my wife, who I think has only ridden in it once, won't even let me talk about getting rid of it for some reason. My 2-year-old daughter seems to dig the car too.
So on those down days when I think it's too much work or fears of never finding replacement parts get in the way, I just go talk to them.
And they set me straight...
Posted by: olav Dec 6 2005, 10:51 AM
| QUOTE (Goge @ Dec 6 2005, 08:30 AM) |
| My daughters (7 and 9 yrs old) won't let me get rid of it. They think it's the coolest thing in the world. Even my wife, who I think has only ridden in it once, won't even let me talk about getting rid of it for some reason. My 2-year-old daughter seems to dig the car too. So on those down days when I think it's too much work or fears of never finding replacement parts get in the way, I just go talk to them. And they set me straight... |
Three daughters! You're out numbered!
Posted by: MW 914 Dec 6 2005, 10:56 AM
| QUOTE (Mueller @ Dec 5 2005, 09:19 PM) |
| I figure I'll be more of a cool dad with the 914 when it comes to dropping off or picking up the future rug rats when they get older |
I can't get my daughter to ride in my Tahoe now. She only wants daddy's "cool little car"
Posted by: dion9146 Dec 6 2005, 11:18 AM
I've owned 3 914's in the past 12 years. I restored the first two and got totally burned out on the 3rd, so I put it away. I am fortunate enough to own a garage that I could just shove it up into the back corner and throw a car cover on it for the past 4 years. Plus, my Wife wouldn't let me sell it. She's driven the car in autx's before, and is still hooked on that memory. And like she always said, it isn't costing me anything to leave it parked in the back of the garage.
So, I took some time off, went Formual Vee racing with the SCCA, had 2 kids, now I'm back and re-energized towards the 914. The race car is being sold. The short block 2.0 Six is back together and we should have the car on the road in April.
Plus, I've been getting pressure from the 3 year old to ride in Daddy's cool red car.
Dion
Posted by: airsix Dec 6 2005, 12:25 PM
| QUOTE (Mark Henry @ Dec 5 2005, 03:02 PM) |
| That make's three of us...The Brothers Grim |
Or do we call it the fab four (don't leave me out).
Keep it? Sell it? Track only it? I don't know anymore.
Mike, to deal with the borderline ADD I have developed a system of "hobby rotation" where I intently focus on a specific hobby to the point of fanaticism for up to 90 days and then develop disdain for it and drop it like a rock for 18 months. I rotate through my hobbies* like this on an ongoing basis. I haven't touched my 914 for almost a year. It's just about up for another tour of duty.
nutball projects past and present:
PEFI (done)
DIY turbo (done)
home-made flares (done)
rebuilding broken surface-grinder (current)
top secret project (current - hoping to pattent)
home gunsmithing (past/present next up: mill compensator ports on the 1911A1)
2.7 six conversion or not? have parts. (project stalled 2 yrs ago)
subaru conversion or not? no parts yet. (future?)
*autocross, 914 wrench-spinning, shooting/gunsmithing, machining, knifemaking, scuba, falconry, flyfishing...
Posted by: Mark Henry Dec 6 2005, 12:31 PM
you forgot kids
Posted by: fiid Dec 6 2005, 12:33 PM
| QUOTE (DNHunt @ Dec 6 2005, 07:40 AM) |
| ...Sure enough, I had them turned off. Luckily, I didn't keep cranking and cranking, there should still be some assemmbly lube in there. Damn MS, why the hell would there be an option like that. Now, I should have it up and running in a couple of hours. Dave |
Dude... Been there - got the T-shirt. I had neglected to set the "invert output for EDIS" flag. It would get to about 3500rpm and then miss horribly. It was stuck at 10 degrees advance at all times. I had to go RTFM like 3 times before I figured out what was up.Posted by: airsix Dec 6 2005, 01:46 PM
| QUOTE (Mark Henry @ Dec 6 2005, 10:31 AM) |
| you forgot kids |
Right! I forgot.
Mike, you're having pre-first-birth male anxiety. It's normal. Don't panic.
-Ben M.
Posted by: bd1308 Dec 6 2005, 01:58 PM
everytime I turn the key--I get a chill down my back. This car spells Porsche for me, and fits my personality. This car also represents old-world technology and was built during a time when there was no such thing as cup holders or DVD players in the back seat or plastic *EVERYTHING* This car is simple, elegant and I can almost see the life brought to this car from hours and hours of REAL man labor to put this car together. It's no mystery why there are still so many around.....
b
Posted by: horizontally-opposed Dec 6 2005, 02:01 PM
The sounds and the smells...and having it for 16 years now makes me feel like I am not ALLOWED to sell it...
I get to exactly where you're at regularly. Storing the 914 in SF (at ($200+ a month) is a PITA and money drain. The Boxster does EVERYTHING better, and it's comfy for long trips in any weather. Sounds better, handles better, brakes better, goes better...
All for less than that Miata you're looking at!
BUT, after driving everything else, the 914 still puts a smile on my face that's equal to most of those cars... I say pick a sunny day and come on by for lunch... the oil will be warm.
pete
Posted by: Bruce Allert Dec 6 2005, 02:51 PM
| QUOTE (horizontally-opposed @ Dec 6 2005, 01:01 PM) |
| The sounds and the smells... |
Got to agree on that too. I miss the old car, oil & gas mixture smells that seeped through the cracks in the door from the garage and into the house. That alone would put a smile on my face
.......b
Posted by: Jeff Bowlsby Dec 6 2005, 02:57 PM
Mike, its simple, just focus on one project at a time...
"the Force Mike...use the Force..."
Posted by: jhadler Dec 6 2005, 03:01 PM
Mike, don't do it!! You'll regret it if you do, and you know it.
We've all been there. Heck, I've been there a few times in the last few years when the most I could do with the car was sit in the driver's seat and make vroom-vroom noises.
This last weekend saw a major hurdle come and go. I went from half a motor and a pile of parts, to an assembled long block. The engine tin is getting powder coated as I type (may even be done by now), and there's actually a light at the end of the tunnell now.
What kept me going? A few things... A desire to follow through on my project and see it to completion for one. An understanding wife (can't tell you how helpfull that is). And a knowledge that when I'm driving the car, it will be a car that -I- built. Not some off-the-shelf pseudo-sports-car with an "R" badge on the back, but a car with history, and performance, and probably the best "support group" around.
I like the idea of going to an autox and showing what a really good handling car can do.
I've driven more cars in competition in the last few years than I'd care to admit. And some of them were without question, the cream of the crop. I've learned what I do and don't like in the handling of a sports car, and the 914 has it!! Sure, I could go out and spend 30k for a car that handles as well. But it won't -feel- as good driving. The 914 is purely visceral car. You don't get in it, you wear it! (and yes, I've driven formula cars that you really -do- wear).
914, it's not just a car, it's a passion, and an obsession... 
So take a break, make a list of what simple things you could do now, have a brew , and then know that when it's all done, you'll have the car that you want.
-Josh2
Posted by: toon1 Dec 6 2005, 03:04 PM
Been there done that? Hell, I am there right now. Bought one as a commute car, non runner, thinking it will be easy to get going. That was two months ago, things are comming together but still seems like I am no closer. I have never owned one, And being on this site I am seeing the good, bad, and ugly. What keeps me going is sheer will and determination. After hearing everyone say how much they love their 914,
I WANT TO DRIVE THE EFFIN THING
Posted by: shoguneagle Dec 6 2005, 04:11 PM
Mike,
I know what you are going through. I have had the feeling several times with different cars; I got out; short time later, back into the game again.
Most recent events with the move required me to get rid of the Alfa GTV, Lotus Esprit, 914, and 90 corvette. The idea was to reduce down to where I could live without the cars. While these cars are being moved or waiting moves to the their new owners, I bought a rolling 914-6GT. Even hauled it to Flagstaff. Back in the game again!! it turns out I am stuck on these little cars; I have the "curse" for the 914.
Gotta build; gotta build; gotta build........
There are several people, and you are one of them, that gave me this "curse".
My next question is where you will satisfy your "engineering" talents? I think you will always be involved in projects and engineering new things for cars.
You can shake it; we need you and your expertise along with the rest of this group.
Welcome back. It is not the same if you leave your project.
Hey, Dude, what's cookin' on the engineering back burner? Will need your suspension bearings and .........
Steve Hurt
shoguneagle
Posted by: BMITCHELL Dec 6 2005, 04:15 PM
Getting together with friends and driving thru the So Cal twisties like we did last saturday. I forgot all the pain and frustration of working on a 
teener. I left with a smile on my face and can't wait until the next run.
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