1974 914 Engine Compartment Originality, Rear Deck Lid Torsion Bars Options

[gcrotvik]

Did the factory place a rubber separator (small section of rubber hose) between the torsion bars where they cross to minimize friction between the bars and thus, reduce the possibility of rust in that area?

I have looked at several 914's my year and a few have the separator but most do not. What was original?? My body shop guy put a separator in but I don't know if it's correct/original to my year.

The picture below was taken when the car was disassembled.

Thanks,

Greg

[Pat Garvey]

Greg,
I misunderstood also - thought we were talking about the lid.

The lid torsion bars should move away from each other as the lid is rear boot is raised, then come to rest close to each other but not touching when the boot is lowered. Don't if this carried over to later models, but there is a u-shaped structural piece welded in the the center of the rear bulkhead covering the torsion bars (don't see this in your pic, but it may have been removed in the '74s). I don't know for certain, but its purpose may have been to keep the bars in place if a roller broke...?

No rubber snubber on early cars in this location. Mt 72 has not had the rollers replaced (please, please), and the boot raises and lowers with no problem (please, please), and the crossover point still has all paint on the torsion bars. So, it apparently works. Still curious about the deletion of the welded-in u-shaped structure.

I can take pics, but it will be difficult since the car is assembled and that point is tough to view. Will try if any interest.
Pat