1973 Restoration, I need help navigating thru a restoration Options

[Mary Shortridge]

I have my brother's 1973 1.7 Porsche. Lee was killed in a car accident in December, and my dad and I are having "Buttercup" restored in his honor, as Lee had dreamed of doing. I have several of his friends advising me, but no one has "914" experience. I have a MILLION questions, and would really appreciate any advice and help.
I want to make sound decisions on what to replace while we have the car torn apart, but after browsing the price of parts, I know I am rapidly blowing my budget.
I know I need an engine; where's a good place to buy one? GEX? I live in southwest Kansas, but have access to a trucker to bring it home.
I may need to replace the heater's muffler that is located in the rocker panel because of mice. Isn't there something I could substitute?
There are two holes in the "sail" area that appear to be filled. Was there an emblem there? I haven't found any photos of 914s with such.
I need misc. body parts... any suggestions besides ebay? Any junkyards known for such stuff?
THANKS A MILLION for any help! ~Mary

[Mary Shortridge]

I am amazed, and overwhelmed by everyone's generosity. I can't say thank you enough.
The car is a really bright spot right now in my family's life....when we really needed a bright spot.
Just for now, I'll post a photo of my brother in Buttercup, when he bought in in 1991. Parked next to him is my daughter, who was 3 at the time. Lee had found the plastic car in the trash, and fixed it all up for her. Crafted a panel, and steering wheel out of wood. New battery and wiring, and Uncle Lee was a real hero! Now Liz is getting lessons on driving a stick, so she can drive Buttercup when the car is done!
I'll post some progress photos soon. The UPS driver will be my hero when those big boxes of sheet metal show!
Thanks....
~Mary
BTW---I do have the original engine. Just trying to find someone to overhaul it, if possible, or buy a "new" one. The car has been parked since '93, and outside much of that time... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif)

[rick 918-S]

I am amazed, and overwhelmed by everyone's generosity. I can't say thank you enough.
The car is a really bright spot right now in my family's life....when we really needed a bright spot.
Just for now, I'll post a photo of my brother in Buttercup, when he bought in in 1991. Parked next to him is my daughter, who was 3 at the time. Lee had found the plastic car in the trash, and fixed it all up for her. Crafted a panel, and steering wheel out of wood. New battery and wiring, and Uncle Lee was a real hero! Now Liz is getting lessons on driving a stick, so she can drive Buttercup when the car is done!
I'll post some progress photos soon. The UPS driver will be my hero when those big boxes of sheet metal show!
Thanks....
~Mary
BTW---I do have the original engine. Just trying to find someone to overhaul it, if possible, or buy a "new" one. The car has been parked since '93, and outside much of that time... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif)

Hi Mary,

Many of us will watch your progress with interest. You have a touching story. There are some true 914 enthusists here that like to see these cars saved. We all know the cost of fixing your brothers car will out weigh it's market value in short order. If we can help off set the cost a little let us know. Many members here have parts sitting waiting to be put back in use.

A couple questions:

You state you have the engine: can you take a picture of it for us so we can see how complete it is?

Does it have it's original Fuel Injection or has it been converted to carbs?

Look for the block number located on the crank case near the oil filler. This should tell us what type of engine you have.

You say your getting sheet metal. I assume your body shop placed an order. One caution, If they ordered directly from Restoration Design the order may take awhile. The make the panels and the business is always backed up. I have never ordered from them but others here have. It sounds like you eventually get your parts but they are slower to send them than others.

I think you will find the journey rewarding. There are many 914 events across the country. Many owners attend without bringing their cars. You will find here, it's about the cars, but it's also about the people.

[Mary Shortridge]

I am heading out of town this morning, but will take a better photo of the engine and look for the data later this week. The engine is fuel injected, and I plan to keep that.
Thanks for all your helpful advice!!!!
~Mary