A friend of mine's wife found him the ultimate birthday present, a heavily optioned and original 71 S, that has been sitting since 94. Check out the full story on the blog.
http://unobtaniuminc.wordpress.com/
A friend of mine's wife found him the ultimate birthday present, a heavily optioned and original 71 S, that has been sitting since 94. Check out the full story on the blog.
http://unobtaniuminc.wordpress.com/
Cool.
(and 10 characters so it will post).
What a great find. Would love to see more pics of the interior and how the factry placed the spare tire over the Rallye tank.
Thanks for sharing!
Ay-yay-yay! . . .
'. . . I love stories like this, even if I am not the one finding the car. This very original 71 S was found not by my friend George, but by his wife Susan. She stumbled across it and figured it would make a great birthday surprise for George (don’t we all want a wife like this!!!). So she rang the doorbell of the house and talked to the owner and his wife who initially said the car was not for sale and that she was not the first person to stop and ask. But Susan convinced them it was time to let the car go to someone who would bring it back to its former glory. It will sit nicely in George’s stable with his Pre-A cab and his Speedster . . .
. . . George was wowed by the car and did some research on it. It was heavily optioned from the factory with cool accessories like the large gas tank and sport seats. The car had been sitting since 1994. The car came with the tool kit and a lot of the original paperwork.
The car was traded in in 1974 for a VW bus at Algar Porsche Audi, the owner wanted his “cosmic adventure”. The car was than bought at Algar Porsche Audi for $10,000 that same year. The third owner (74-78) was able to provide some great period pictures.
So far George has started pecking around the car, no rust in the floors! Knowing George and his collection this car will re-appear in a few years ready for a Concours d’Elegance, Hilton Head anyone? Maybe when it is done I can talk George into trading cars for the weekend (the shot of me and my Roadster, posing with George.) . . .'
So?
What happened?
Did George ever get this car restored? . . .
. . . anybody?
George lurks here... maybe he will speak up on this thread
He just picked up his 55 Continental Coupe at 'the shop' a few days ago. One of my all time favorite cars.
His Speedster mentioned above was the Rodriguez car that sold at Amelia this past spring.
I believe he is slowly piecing the 71S back together. I have seen many of its parts around the shop on their way to refurbishment.
He's also a true gentleman and scholar of the marque.
George, maybe you'll give the board an update...?
- Bryce
I think he is finishing up on the S, this was from December I think.
Hey Guys !! Thanks for the interest in the S !! I will post updated pics when back home inthe middle of the week. I have been in Adams neck of the woods driving with the Northeast 356 fellows in the Saratoga Springs area over the weekend. The S is slowly taking shape !! George Kehler
What color is the blue car? Looks like mine but mine isn't a factory color. Sometimes a Gemini blue looks lighter in a photo and that also looks like my car.
Attachment 295555
I've got a Gemini blue that's much darker than this one. I've never seen a gemini blue this light.
Richard Newton
It does look a little light to me for Gemini Blue, but it could be the lighting, computer screen, faded paint, etc. Here is my '73 with 20 year old paint. Yeh I know, but I hate those rubber baby buggy bumpers.
SteveAttachment 295766
??????? The car is silver.
Hi Guys !!
Slow progress on the car but now the front trunk is ready for paint. Thanks so all who helped with finding the right color. The original 100L gas tank is restored and in transit. Will post pics of painted trunk with tank !!! George Kehler
Hello, George . . .
Always exciting to see other people's 'projects,' so . . . thank you for posting
I got curious when I first read that your car turned-up sitting in someone's driveway. Love stories like that! I'm especially interested in your car because it's the first '71 that I've ever heard of to have that optional 100 liter tank --- in fact . . . it's the ONLY one. Do you know what the date-stamp on your tank's sender is? The only ones that I've seen were dated '67-or-so
Looks like a solid-enough car to start with, too. What are your plans for it? Will this be a 'show car' . . . or more of something to drive?
And why was the car sitting since '94? Did something break, or did the guy lose interest, etc?
And keep those pictures coming!
PS Algar Porsche Audi, huh? I don't suppose you have a license plate frame that you could share a picture of, do you? . . .
http://www.early911sregistry.org/for...r-Plate-Frames
;)
Hi Rick !! This car was sold new by Holberts and I have a great plate frame that I will photograph and post here. Also, the 100 L tank was purchased in 1975 by the fourth owner because he could get more fuel each time he went to fill up during the Arab oil crisis. The sender is dated 1975 and was restored by the Penn. shop that specializes in restoring them. He said that it was the oldest dated one that they have restored. More pics to come of the painted front trunk !! GBK
Thanks for those details, George . . .
Hi Guys !!
Here is the plate frame from Holberts !!! Perfect for my car !!! Enjoy !! George Kehler
Eeeeeeeexcellent!
Hey Guys !!
Here are pics of the front trunk with final paint. Hope that you'all like. The car still has the black tar paint on the top of the shock towers and brushed black paint on the front of the battery boxes. Also, the black paint runs where the brushed black paint was applied under the lower trunk latch. Neat details that we have documented and will reproduce !! Enjoy and have a nice weekend !! George Kehler
Any progress to report, George? This one must be getting close
Hey Guys !! Sorry for the delay in updating the progress on the 1971S !! Been working on the rockers and about to replace the drivers side. More rust than espected, esp. just under the door jam . There is a bulge like piece of metal that is rusted on both sides. I used a donor from Jim at EASY and replaced the one on the drivers side. But, with the rocker in place, no one knows that it was done !!! But we are true devotees !!! Suspension has been removed and sent to Elephant Racing for restoration. No updates, just stock !!!! For some fab news !!!! Walt at Competition Engineering has just finished my engine !!! He says that is was one of the more challenging rebuilds that he has ever done !!!! But he is the man for such challenges !!! Also, my deep six wheels also came in from Harvey !!! So progress !!! Enjoy the pics !!!! George
Everyone is excited to find no rust in the floors. Actually that may be the last place in the car to rust. Rust is always like the iceberg - you can only see 10% of it. The Italians invented rust and the Germans perfected it.
Richard Newton
Looks/reads like you've got your project well under control there, George
The rocker business doesn't look too-too bad. What/who's panels are you using? Curious about your choices + thought-process, here. And any other surprises? Looks like a good/straight car, otherwise . . . the trunk + rear compartments look really nice --- I'd be pleased. How 're the doors?
Keep those pictures coming . . . + thanks for posting your progress!
Thanks !! I am using panels from Restoration Design. We will hang the doors with final fitting. We will por 15 or other treatment before welding the outers in place. The rear parcel shelf is out and again using RD parts. Doors are looking fairly good with just two minor spots that will be addressed. Car was never hit so no BIG issues in that respect. Gauges were restored by palo alto speedo and i have lakewell dash and basically entire interior from them. I bought all that early last year thinking that this restoration would only be a year !!!! Boy, was I wrong !! I appreciate this forum and all the great info/advice it contains !! GBK
Latest update on this project. The rockers on now on both sides !! The inners where OK and treated before the outers where welded in place. The pieces had to worked and reworked to fit nicely. Welds to be ground later today. The 100L factory gas tank is finally with top coat after being reburbed internally. We will paint the exposed bottom the same silver metallic, of course. Suspension is to arrive in 2 weeks from Elephant Racing. Next, to work on the wheel wells and then the fenders, again repros from Restoration Design. We felt that theirs would ultimately save time over trying to salvage the originals. Thanks for reading this thread !!! Enjoy the pics !!! GBK Attachment 308892
More pics !! Attachment 308893
More pics !! Attachment 308894
More pics !! Attachment 308895
More pics !! Attachment 308896
More pics !!! Attachment 308897
Nice work, George, Keep the photos coming, please!!!
Hi Guys !!! Not much action other than some filler on the rockers. Waiting on front oil cooler from Elephant Racing so we can weld the bracket and then paint. Attachment 310645
Attachment 310642
Hey Guys !!! Here is a pic of Mr Bud Laws who is my master body restoration fellow who is showing a front horn that he cleaned the inside with Evapo-Rust, safe rust removal avaiable at Harbor Freight. It looks like it removed the rust and dirt as compared to the other side that he has not treated. After cleaning, he hooked up to battery and the magnet works and the horn should be operational. He will do the same to the other side. How nice that they should work !!! George K Attachment 310648Attachment 310647Attachment 310649
Hey Guys !! I also put up some new "additions to the family" in our kitchen. Ex. Geneva Auto Show Porsche booth banner 1961. Thanks for following my thread !!! Enjoy !!! George KAttachment 310650Attachment 310651
Izzat-izzat? . . .
. . . 'pepita' carpeting?
Ay-yay-yaaaaay!
;)
Very observant eyes, Rick !!!
Thanks guys for reading this thread !! Here is Mr Laws showing the new front oil cooler from Elephant Racing. It fits to the fender and and the battery box. Very nice design !! Attachment 312940
The shock towers are now primed for painting prior to suspension install. The Elephant Racing suspension has arrived !!! We will repaint black where the factory applied in this area. Attachment 312941
The rockers are ready for paint !!! Attachment 312942
Here is Mr Laws shop dog keeping watch over the restoration !!! Note surface rust on rear quarter panel. Attachment 312943
Hand sanding down the paint. Some small dings noted that were covered in bondo years ago. These will be attended. Thanks for reading this thread !!! HAPPY THANKSGIVING DAY TO ALL !!! Attachment 312944
thanks for the updates- looking good!
Nice update, George. I am keeping an eye on your part stash at Pat's.
Let's get that thing done and down here for proper sorting
Bryce
Hi Guys !! I visited Skip Trammell in Knoxville who is putting together the rest of the engine that Walt Watson at Competition Engineering masterfully rebuilt. Here is a picture. Attachment 313653
Skip is also rebuilding the transmission. Attachment 313654
It looks to have a nut that is out of shape. Skip will further investigate. Attachment 313655
Today, I visited by body restoration expert, Bud Laws. He took out the headliner and noticed that on the drivers side some of the metal above the door frame is rusted. He will replace it. Funny how these cars rust in the weirdest places !!! Attachment 313656
On a good note, the shock tower tops are painted !!! We will repaint the black "stuff" that was on it as well. Attachment 313660
I'd like to see this same heading with a TODAY'S DATE! Or at least the same year.........ANYONE? SEEN ANY OF THESE IN DRIVEWAYS LATELY? Obviously AFTER you buy it on the spot!
Hey Guys !! Here is an update on the car. Bud Laws has sanded the body to beautiful bare metal !! Attachment 314941
Here is close up of previous damage. Poor previous repair. Bud will hammer most of this out. Attachment 314942
Here is the other rear fender. Note pitting rust that crept up the paint over the years. Attachment 314943
Here is the top. Some pitting noted. This will be attended as well. Attachment 314944
Everything is out !! Attachment 314946
More fun !! Attachment 314950
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL !!! Thanks for reading this thread over the past year !! I really appreciate it and keeps me going with this project. Here is the aluminium rear license plate area with assistant Daniel Riddle sanding. The prior owner placed two badges and drilled thru the aluminium !!! Ouch !! Mr Laws with gently weld the holes up with a material that melts at a temperature lower than aluminium as to avoid warping. Attachment 317096
Here is the passenger door stripped. A few small rust spots with be removed with small metal patches. Overall, the doors are in good shape. Attachment 317097
Here is the aluminium rear deck lid stripped. I few dings will be attended. Several of the P O R S C H E letters were just glued on !!! [ATTACH=CONFIG]317098
Here is the hood stripped. Really excellent shape with no prior damage !!! How nice to see this !!! Attachment 317099
Now to the rear of the car. There was a small crease here that Mr Laws tapped out and looks much better. Attachment 317100
You have seen this area previously. Mr Laws has tapped this area out as well with much better results than the previous old .35 inch thick bondo "repair" years ago !! Attachment 317101
This rear area has a few rust areas that will be cut out and new metal placed. Note area that has been cut already. Attachment 317102
Here are the insides of the doors. Overall, good shape but a rust hole in another unusual place on an inside corner. I also wish everyone a HAPPY NEW YEAR and will continue to keep you posted on this restoration. Maybe finished in 2015 ?? Stay tuned !!!! George Kehler in Tennessee Attachment 317104Attachment 317103
Great stuff, George
Always like seeing these cars 'inside/underneath' --- + the way they were originally finished-off --- just a car . . .
Hey Guys !! Santa came early last week bearing a vintage dealer flag. Bought from a lady in Jacksonville, FL so I wonder if it was in the Brumos dealership in the early '60's ??? Attachment 317163Attachment 317166
Hey, George . . .
When I first came to this site --- ~6 years ago, now . . . all I wanted to do was troll for a car. I'd heard of The Early 911S Registry years before, already --- back when Craig Stevenson bought an untouched '67 'S' and was all excited about recruiting people. I'd dismissed the whole idea, back then, never followed-/kept-up with things . . . and so, had no idea what The Registry was about . . .
. . . or how far things had come
So, when I decided to look for an Early 911, and found/visited this site? . . . I had No Idea. Instead of finding justa bunch o' cars + parts? --- I found stories, advice, from people whose names I recognized, histories, archives w/ tons of photos --- many images that I'd never seen before . . . not-to-mention cars + details + facts + figures + all kindsa links + pics, but --- most/almost best of all? . . . finding projects . . .
. . . like this one . . .
http://www.early911sregistry.org/for...1-Saving-a-69S
. . . and this one . . .
http://www.early911sregistry.org/for...-of-a-RHD-2-2S
Seeing/reading stuff like this --- watching people bring their cars back . . . showing what they've found, what they're doing, who they worked with and what parts they used . . . then taking the time to explain the steps, even taking pictures --- sharing stuff as they go along . . .
. . . inspired me to take on my project --- and try to do the same
And so now ---- your car, George . . . the way you found it, the stuff you're finding, the work that needs doing, how you're going about things . . .
. . . means that there 'll be at least One More Early 911S running that wasn't running before
And who knows? Maybe someone else will read your story, then check-out another drive-way? . . .
. . . maybe find another car?
. . . maybe write another thread?
. . . and so it goes
As for my 'enthusiasm'? --- George! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . your carpets, Man!
;)
Hey Guys !!! Time for an update !!! Bitter cold even here in Tennessee !!! Here are pics of progress to the rear seat and parcel shelf area. The side walls are now wire wheeled and will be POR 15'd. Please note holes for roll bar that was installed at Al Holberts race shop in 1972. These will be welded up and instead a hoop will be installed. The shelf is in place to be welded later today. Attachment 318963Attachment 318962
Now for rear window corner work. A common rust area !!! Attachment 318964Attachment 318965
Here is Mr Laws surverying his work !!Attachment 318966More trunk views !!Attachment 318967
Here is where the front seat 5 point restraints, also installed at Al Holberts race shop, attach to the floor. Is the a customary area to drill these holes ?? Looks like some kind of reinforced part of the flood with factory welds ?? Attachment 318973
Leaving with a nice pic of original rear trunk black paint hiding beneath a bolt ........ !! Attachment 318979
Hey Guys !!! More updates !! Here is Mr Laws surveying his welding in the rear shelf. This piece is from Restoration Design. Attachment 319335Attachment 319336
More pics. Had to add tabs for the engine compartment insulation. Next, the welds will be ground down and the rear lid brackets welded in place to the new tray.Attachment 319337Attachment 319338
They have just started working on the small imperfections of the front and rear lids. The rear is feather light !!! Attachment 319339Attachment 319340
Hi Guys !!! Time for an update !! Here is a door that is undergoing repair with the masters tools on top. Attachment 321048
Here is the other door with outer skin finished. Smooth as a babies backside !!! Attachment 321049
This is the drivers side fender light corner replacement. Attachment 321050
Here are the holes where Al Holberts raceshop placed the roll bar. I am replacing with a hoop from TRE Motorsports to replicate it. Attachment 321051Attachment 321052
Nice post. Excelent restoration with a lot of pics!! Thx. I enjoy reading this at this sunday afternoon.
Congrats. Good luck.
Great stuff, George! . . .
Really interesting the way that your roll bar was installed . . . super-tidy + well-thought-out, I think . . . not rushed
Have you found out anything about the car's history, or the original owner . . . and about this install? Seems like an elaborate kinda thing to commission --- especially back then . . . more-specially from Al Holbert. The only other car that I know of that had a roll bar installed was 119300874 . . .
http://www.early911sregistry.org/for...ight=119300874
. . . but I haven't seen any detailed pictures of how this was fitted
Anyway --- looks like things are moving along nicely . . .
Thanks for the updates!
Thanks for your analysis, Rick. The second owner wrote me that his father bought the this car for him on the condition that the car be equipped with "safety features". The car was originally bought at Holbert's and they took it there for the rollbar, square TTG driving lights, and the 5 point restraints. The father thought that this car could be too much for his college attending son to handle !!! They bought the car at Algar Porsche/Audi Rosemont, PA on May 6, 1972 with 11193 miles on the odometer. I posted on this forum if there were any PCA members in the Philly area who might remember this car but no success.
Time for another update !!! Here are photos of the doors. Mr Laws has corrected some waves in the doors the were in the metal from the factory. Attachment 321696Attachment 321697
Here a photo showing where one of the doors had several holes found in it. There was a dent in it and was "pulled out" in the old fashion way. Mr Laws welded these. Attachment 321698
Here is Mr Laws removing the rubber from the transmission mounts. Tough German rubber !!! Attachment 321699Attachment 321700
Here we are actually pushing the rubber bushing out !!! Attachment 321701Attachment 321702Attachment 321703
Here is the transmission mount without bushings. Now for replacements and powdercoating. Thanks for reading this thread !!! George K Attachment 321704
Hey Guys !!! Now, for some GREAT news !!! Finally, a vital part has been placed back on the car, instead of removed !!! Here is the aluminum rear lid in place with its original hinges. Mr Laws enjoying some good news. Some final fitting and it is set !! Attachment 322485Attachment 322486
Here are the doors in primer and getting close to paint !!! Attachment 322487Attachment 322488
Mr Laws was able to fill several holes made by previous owner for two Badges. Can you imagine drilling into this aluminum panel ?? Mr Laws used a low temp metal to fill gently as not to warp this delicate metal. Attachment 322489
Now for another original gem !! Here is an original factory red mark to show the this bolt was firmly in place. I will replace when back from restoration. Enjoy !! Attachment 322490
Hi Guys !! Now, we have the TRE Motorsports hoop that I want to install. It will have to be cut and welded in place. We will weld up the Holbert holes and use the mounts provided by TRE. Attachment 322972
Here I have a friends parcel shelf with rare Blaupunkt speaker. Using it as a template for welding the luggage strap mounts on the parcel shelf. Attachment 322973
Hey Guys !! After -13 degrees F last week in Tennessee, I went back to the shop to check on things. Mr Laws is working on the roll bar. What a project !! I was not aware about the angles and precise cuts. Attachment 324221
Here is Mr Laws who is using a plumb bob for correct positioning. The bar is from TRE. Attachment 324222Attachment 324223
Here is where various holes where welded. Included are holes from the old rollbar. Thanks for looking !!! Keep warm !!! George KAttachment 324226
I'm enjoying the pace of your work, George --- also the details. This is fun --- like dropping-in on a work-in-progress. Appreciate your sharing this
Interesting to see this roll bar part. I remember one of our posters --- Raj . . . asking for opinions about what to do w/ old war-scars + battle-damage on a 914-6 racer he had
What's your thinking regarding these 'old holes'? Clean 'em up? . . . or leave 'em be?
Hi Rick !! Thanks for your insightful words !! There is a tense medium between patina and function. This bar can be taken out if needed with little effort. And trying to correct some past gremlins. Best of both worlds in my opinion. George K
Hey Guys !! Sorry for the delay but I was in LA for the Literature Meet, Shops, and Anaheim swap meet weekend as well as attending Amelia Island Concours this past weekend. Enjoyed seeing old friends and great cars !! While away, Mr Laws was playing !! He has put two coats of primer to the body. So nice to see !! Attachment 326668Attachment 326669Attachment 326670Attachment 326671
Mr Laws Por 15'd the floors. These are original !! Attachment 326672Attachment 326673
Here is the rollbar nearing install. We are having problems with the headliner metal ribs being too long, new from Porsche. Anyone else have this problem ?? We want enough clearance to clear the bar. Thanks for watching my posts. Attachment 326678Attachment 326679Attachment 326680Attachment 326681
Hi Guys !! Here is an unusual area to rust. Looks like where the hood rubber bumper attaches water collected. Mr Laws will replace. Attachment 326850
Thanks Jim for taking the time to read about my car. Your "metal" has been carefully grafted into my car !! Great to meet you at the LA meet !! George
Hey Guys !! Sorry for the delay in pics !! Here, Mr Laws repaired the rusted area in the hood. Attachment 329927
Here is another unusual rust area where the drivers visor attaches. Will repair. Attachment 329928
Here are some crusty critters !! Attachment 329929
Here is another crusty critter, my fuel pump. I have decided to just buy a new one from Porsche, rather than rebuild. Attachment 329930
Another view. Hopefully, there will be some light at the end of this tunnel !! Attachment 329931
Hey Guys !! Here is another update !! Here, Mr Laws is putting a primer coat on. Attachment 330781Attachment 330782
Just one more primer coat for the doors !!! Attachment 330783
Finally, we finally found good used headliner bows and test fitted so we can proceed with the install of the rollbar. The bows new from Porsche just did not fit. I am going with the black headliner !!??!!Attachment 330784
Great News !!! The roll bar is FINISHED !! Now, it is at the powder coaters. Attachment 330937
The hood, rear lid, and license panel now have primer. Not long before tackling the fenders. I am using Restoration Design new fenders. Attachment 330942Attachment 330943
Roll bar back from powdercoaters !! Attachment 331135
Hey, George . . .
Interesting --- I did NOT know that RD was making/selling these
And I would've thought that even Bunged-up Old Stock was preferable + available. Are the RD bits expensive?
And how do they fit?
And lotsa attention to all the 'body stuff.' Meanwhile . . .
. . . what's going on w/ your motor?
Jus' bein' nosy
:o
Thanks for everyones patience with this build. My mechanic is old school and only recently discovered digital photography. But, he then develops into photos. Here are some from earlier in the year. Transmission has been rebuilt as well. Attachment 331452Attachment 331453Attachment 331454
In my case, the fenders had rust and we decided that time was better spent with replacing. Labor repairing vs. replace. We will hang the RD fenders this week. Will report more later in the week. Thanks for following !! George K
Here are the fenders from RD. Fitting will take place later in the week.
Attachment 331597
More updates !! Continuing final sanding. Attachment 332781Attachment 332782Attachment 332783
Mr Laws noted rust wicking thru the metal on this seat mount. Hard to disengage the bolts but a little "gentle persuasion" will get them out !! This mount will be replaced. Attachment 332784
Hey Guys !! Thanks for your patience with this restoration !! First trial fit of the fenders on the car. Wish Mr Laws would open his eyes !! Attachment 334216
Now for the details of fit. This is the first time on the car and we will be tweeking (stretching) the car for better fitment. Very snug. Attachment 334218Attachment 334219
On the drivers side, the signal/horn area will have to be realigned. Attachment 334220
Nice fitting in the door area. Will be hanging doors later this week and will report.Attachment 334221
Time for an update, George! . . .
George, I really appreciate you sharing all this build information. Two questions; first in one of the photos of the inside of the top there appeared to be sound deadening, was it and was it on all of the roof? second, the photo of the engine showed later SSI heat exchangers, with all the intake heat, etc. One had none. What did you eventually go with?
Thanks again, can't get enough detail on these projects.
Rusty
Hi Guys !! Sorry for the delay on updates. This has been because of our fender fit issues. The first reproductions from Restoration Design from a previous post are too shug and almost hit the hood. Yesterday, the next set of fenders came from Stoddard, actually from Porsche. The fit is better than the Restoration Design ones. These fit about in the middle from original ones ( perfect but lots of rust) and the Restoration Design ones (poor fit). Please keep in mind that this car was never fit and had original fenders. These are the Stoddard fenders on the car:Attachment 338512Attachment 338513
These are the originals. Please note the nice gaps. Attachment 338527Attachment 338528
Here is the problem with the reproduction fenders, esp. the Restoration Design ones. The lip is much too wide. The originals are almost a 90 degree angle, thus the nice gap. The reproductions have lost this. Thus, i do NOT recommend the Restoration Design fenders. Attachment 338530Attachment 338531
Good thing that we removed this seat track mount !! The bolts were a rusted bear to remove. Attachment 338532
More photos. A big box from King of Trim came with the chrome door trim and rear quarter panel windows chrome trim and front/rear hood latches. Still a ways to go !!! Thanks for following this blog !!Attachment 338533Attachment 338534
Does Porsche source their new repro fenders from Dansk?
Thanks Michael. Now George, the heat exchangers?
Rusty
Hi Rusty !! PM sent. Thanks. George
Thanks Rick !! Sorry for the long delay in updating !! I always appreciate your enthusiasm in these blogs !! The pics below post #131 show the difference between the factory (upper pic) and the RD (lower pic) fenders. RD did not seem interested with this info. Thus, the Stoddard ones. Now, onward .... !! George
Many of the parts, including the fenders sold by Restoration Design are not their own stampings, they are simply resellers of poorly fitting Dansk parts.
Hey Guys !! Just a quick update. Mr Laws has added some shins to the middle of the fenders to make them fit better. These are the Stoddard Porsche fenders. It seems that the metal is more pliable and thus easier to fit. Attachment 339406Attachment 339407Attachment 339408
These are trial fits but the gaps look promising. A little tight and will use a piece of wood and hammer to encourage compliance !! Attachment 339409Attachment 339410
Hey Guys !! Here is Mr Laws with the fenders. He is cutting them in. Attachment 340992Attachment 340993Attachment 340994
Final primer coat to the doors. Attachment 340995
Please note the stamping underneath the drivers fender. There is what looks like an antenna stamping but in the wrong place. We added the antenna hole at the same place as our original fender. Attachment 340996
Hey Guys !! Hope everyone is enjoying their summer !! Here are some photos of the drivers fender and the tank which is part of the emissions system. Mr Laws made a new bracket that was NOT on the Porsche reproduction fender. Thanks for looking !! Attachment 342113Attachment 342114Attachment 342115
Here are photos of final prep on lids with inner silver paint tomorrow !! YEA !! And, some black primer on the front vent area. Thanks for looking !! George KehlerAttachment 342116Attachment 342117.
Hey Guys !! Paint, Paint, Paint !! With clearcoat. Attachment 342244Attachment 342243Attachment 342245
More pics !! So nice to see. Next, the brushed black for the inner panel. Thanks for looking !! George Kehler. Attachment 342246Attachment 342247
Gettin' there, George . . . turning into a car, again
Excited?
Hell Yeah !! GBK
Hey Guys !! Sorry for the lapse in reporting !! Mr Laws has put two coats of blocking primer on the car. Slow meticulous work !! Attachment 346874Attachment 346875Attachment 346876
Seat base mounts undergoing final prep. Attachment 346877
Any updates, George?
I'm dyin', here
I just asked my wife, "How come George's wife Susan found him a 911S in a driveway and a 51 Coupe?"
She then showed me pics she had saved for me on Pinterest. Thoughtful but not the same. I'm hoping Susan can teach a class on "Wife Porsche Hunting" at the next Registry holiday. Don't let her get away George!
Hey Guys and Adam !! Sorry for the delay in updates. Thanks Adam for the kind words about my wife, Susan. Well, she worked her magic again and I now have the original engine to my 1955 Porsche 356. She convinced the longterm Texan owner of it to finally sell and here it is !! I drove it back to Tennessee last week and is now nestled next to her womb. Susan is the BOMB !! Attachment 353374
Hey Guys !! Now, back to the 911. Mr Laws has been busy the past few months finishing a Austin Healey 3000 for its 80 year old second owner. Back to the body with bumper work. Now back from the blaster and ready for finishing coats. Getting closer to paint. Thanks for watching this thread !! George Attachment 353379Attachment 353380Attachment 353382
George,
Congratulations on finding the original engine for the '55! You'll have to tell me the story some time.
Give me a heads up next time you come to "the shop"
Bryce
George what a great thread. Just ran across it last night. Nice work. Been lurking around but never post. My 70T is pretty close to the same progress as yours. What is Mr Laws going to do about the space created by the washers. Will you be using the tape between the body and fender? What color and product will you be using? Here are couple pics of mine. Sorry for the side ways pics but not sure how to change.
Hey Guys !! Nice weather here in Tennessee today so I checked on the car. The front bumper is stripped and straightened. Please note the seam where the two pieces are attached. Attachment 354121Attachment 354122Attachment 354123
Here are the other bumpers and fog light covers. Attachment 354124Attachment 354125
Some of the boneyard !! Attachment 354126
Mr Laws has tirelessly massaged the body and is ready for paint. But first is placing the textured look under the doors. Attachment 354127 This is the paint/color we are using.Attachment 354128
Hey Guys !! Now for some EXCITING news !! Silver metallic paint !! Mr Laws took some pics of his latest work. Here paint on the door jams. Attachment 355796Attachment 355797
More silver metallic !!
Now with fenders, rear lid, and doors attached. Silver peeking out. Next week, BODY PAINT including fenders. I cannot wait. An early birthday present as I turn 51 next week. Thanks for following this thread !! Attachment 355800
Hey Guys !! Visited Mr Laws and took some pics. Aiming for Tues for paint. Attachment 356430Attachment 356431
More fun !! Attachment 356432Attachment 356433
GREAT NEWS GUYS !! First picture of Silver Metallic !! Mr Laws painted today as the conditions where ideal. Tomorrow, clear coat. Will take more pics then. A GREAT DAY IN THE LIFE OF THIS CAR !! Thanks for following this thread !! YEA !!!! Attachment 356899
Way to go, George! . . . . . . . and, of course --- Mr Laws
I'm staying tuned
More photos. Here, Mr Laws is wet sanding a few imperfections. Attachment 357036Attachment 357037Attachment 357038
More sanding. Attachment 357039Attachment 357040
Here are photos of the bumpers. Attachment 357041Attachment 357042Attachment 357043Attachment 357044
Here is the texture at the outer rockers. Attachment 357045
More light sanding and clear coat later today. Then more buffing. Thanks for following this thread. George Kehler. Attachment 357046
Hey Guys !! Went to see Mr Laws who is busy wet sanding the car after clear coat. The roof is finished and looks great, though hard to photograph under fluorescent lights. Attachment 357572Attachment 357573
More wet sanding shots !! Attachment 357574Attachment 357575
Here is new help, Freddie, also getting into the wet sand act. Attachment 357576Attachment 357577
Here are sport seats to be broken down with bases to go to Bill Kemper in Mentor OH for restoration and seats to go to Autos International for restoration and houndstooth inserts !!! Attachment 357578Attachment 357579
HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL AND THANKS FOR WATCHING THIS THREAD !!! George Kehler
Hey Guys !! Went to visit Mr Laws and he had a surprise for me. He hand painted the engine compartment and replicated the factory finish including RUNS !! This car still had them so he wanted to keep them. Keeps from being too over restored !! The finish was still drying so will not be as shiny when dry. ENJOY THE RUNS !! Attachment 358232Attachment 358233Attachment 358234
He also detailed and painted this area that was so dirty and grimey !! Attachment 358235
Here is the front data plate with correct rivets. Attachment 358236
Not long until suspension from Elephant Racing will be attached. All stock !! Attachment 358237
Sport seats are disassembled and ready for shipping. These seats are soooo HEAVY !! Base restoration going to Bill Kemper in Mentor OH and the seats to Autos International with houndstooth inserts !! Attachment 358238
More fun .... Thanks for watching this blog !!! George Kehler. Attachment 358240
More goodies to install including brakes restored by PBM. Attachment 358322Attachment 358323
More fun ...... Thanks for looking !! George K. Attachment 358324
Seasons Greetings to all !! Thanks for watching my car !! Here are some pics of suspension action. Attachment 360797Attachment 360798Attachment 360799
More suspension shots. From Elephant. Attachment 360800Attachment 360801Attachment 360802
Here is Mr Laws showing more suspension parts. Note factory makings. Attachment 360803Attachment 360804
Here is brake line work. Original was plastic !! Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and Healthy 2016 !! George Kehler Attachment 360805Attachment 360806
Thanks so much for the heads up !! I appreciate any tips as I am a first timer in restoring one of these cars. They are much more complicated than the 356's that I am more familiar. George
Hey Guys !! Just another update from Tennessee !! Here is Mr Laws working on the front suspension and brakes. Note the old master cylinder !! Crusty and heavy !! And the gas tank peeking out !!Attachment 363069Attachment 363070Attachment 363071Attachment 363072
Here is the tank that was placed in the car in 1975 during the OPEC oil embargo. The fourth owner wanted to get as much gas as he could when his time in line came !! Attachment 363073Attachment 363074Attachment 363075Attachment 363076
Here is Mr Laws comparing the original shocks with new Konis. The bottom half is larger in the original. Thanks for watching this blog !! More to come !! George Kehler. Attachment 363077Attachment 363078
Hey, George . . .
Man --- car's looking good. I never asked . . . whatcha gonna do with it? --- when you're done? Looks really/too nice/tidy for a 'driver'
And pretty interesting tank! Looks like it had an underhood-fill @some point? I've never seen that kinda 'block-off' before
Really enjoying reading/seeing all your progress . . .
"Factory paint"? I see that the car was a Tennessee car. Did Jim Watson do any maintenance on it? One of his trademarks was a blotch of yellow paint on parts he worked on.
Thanks for the observation. The car was never in Nashville but mainly in the Tri Cities area. George K