according to Heckmann & Thiemann, a 914 isn't a VW OR a Porsche Options

[davesprinkle]

So I've got a rattle from the right front strut. I stop in at an independent service shop in Portland -- Heckmann Thiemann VW Porsche Audi. 2 911s, one early, one late, are in the lot. Up on the lift is a VW van.

I pull up in the 914 and walk into the office. Three guys are there, none of them speak. After a few seconds, I ask if they would be able to tighten the cap on the strut. Simple job, should take less than 15 minutes.

One guy mumbles something about trying to reduce their workload; they're really busy. So I say, OK, when can you work it in?

Then I find the real reason -- "We don't work on 914s."

"Really?", I say, "that 914 front end is identical to that 911 over there." "And the engine is the same as the one in the van, only with Porsche cams and ports."

"Yeah, well, we've never worked on 914s and we're not going to start now."

So there you have it -- not a real Porsche, not a real VW. Bizarre.

[Jake Raby]

Every instance where I have had an engine end up with complications upon initial fire up it was installed by a "Porsche Shop" that generally had "35 years of experience".
That should read 35 years of close minded parts changing... I swear most of these guys have no brain and if they did they would not know how to apply it..

The last one charged EIGHT THOUSAND DOLLARS to install an engine that came to them 100% turn key in a crate. They didn't know how to crank for oil pressure.. They removed the clutch and pressure plate to "inspect it" and ended up leaving the fasteners loose which ruined the flywheel and etc...

Needless to say, I have been interrogating installers prior to even engaging in engine builds these days.. The more you brag about 35 years of experience the more I question what you have been doing for those 35 years and why you deserve the privilege to work with advanced technology.. If after 35 years you are doing the same thing and haven't advanced, there is probably a reason behind that.

The worst thing this shop could have done was take on your 914, be glad that they didn't take it on and don't be pissed... Trust me, the outcome is in your favor.