Is it OK to drive in the rain?

[dhopkins]

I am sure this has been discussed before but I need your latest thoughts and comments. Is it OK to drive an early 911 in the rain?

Don Hopkins
1970 911T Targa
2006 Cayman S

[Frank Beck]

Is this a trick question?

I'm pretty sure it rains in Germany where the cars were built.

[RSTarga]

Really? This is the only place I find Porsche owners who have doubts about this.

[Richardnew]

If you have the original window seals/gaskets on your car it's not ok. It's not even ok to wash your car.

Water will run down into the rear seat pans and just rest there. Then you get this.



The same thing happens with the rear package shelf. In this case it's a leaking gasket on the rear window. Water gets in and rest in the seam.



The interesting thing is this sort of rust is most common in hot dry climates. The sun simply dries out the rubber. People in Montana never this problem.

Once you get all of the gaskets/seals replaced you should be just fine.

Richard Newton
My Way Over Budget 911 Project

[mac73s]

Don't forget how exposed the forward and aft wheel wells are which if you've ever disassembled one of the critters you can see that EVERTHING to include rain, dirt, sand and salt) can pack into the rocker sections and onto lamps, horns, oil tank, etc. Not then a surprise that cars of this vintage (not just Porsche) rusted the way they did. Todays cars feature much improved anti-corrosion treatment beginning with the sheet metal and primer/paint process...plus most are lined entirely underneath with 'tupperware' to keep all that crap from spraying inside and onto those critical areas. JMHO....your driving style and choice of how and when to use your car in less than idea weather is respected.

[911MRP]

Don't think you'd be the first to drive 911 in the wet but depends on your abilities and if old example whether there are any rust holes in floor



Is 911 in the picture above water cooled?

[steve shea]

Yes I have done it many times, snow too and I live on a dirt road.

[dporsche74]

Targa's totally get smelly ..

[mfitton]

I am sure this has been discussed before but I need your latest thoughts and comments. Is it OK to drive an early 911 in the rain?

Don Hopkins
1970 911T Targa
2006 Cayman S

No! Do I win a prize?

[Jrsully]

I have restored too many trailer queens that I would almost drive into a guard rail to avoid a 6" wide puddle, no more. The 71 Targa I'm finishing will be paractically brand new on the top, will stay original on the bottom and puddles and rain be damned