Backdate/Restoration Specialist

Jamminman · 08-30-2023, 05:46 PM

I have a '79 911SC that I've stripped down to a shell. I'd like to backdate it to something similar to a 2.8 RSR. I have a very reputable engine/transaxle builder lined up and I was contemplating contacting RS Werks....who are now out of business. Now I'm looking for a restoration/builder specialist. I'm not real familiar with the Porsche world but with many makes, there are more shady builders than reputable. Wondering who people recommend and especially who people have had positive experiences. If you've had negative, I would appreciate a PM (many may not want to publicly trash someone). I have an idea of many of the parts I'd like to use for the project but I'm not set on carbon vs metal for the fenders, so would need a well-rounded shop.

Appreciate any and all feedback!!

chucksmith · chucksmith's Garage

Air Cooled Classics in Knoxville TN does an excellent job

rac390 · 08-31-2023, 01:56 AM

Where are you located? Automobile Associates in Canton CT is one of the best shops around.

Jamminman · 08-31-2023, 03:52 AM

Midwest/Minnnesota. I would prefer a smaller shop. Kelly Moss racing is fairly close by. Big shop with emphasis on racing

shoooo32 · shoooo32's Garage

Kelly-Moss, 0-60 Garage and Mancuso Auto Body are all either "not taking on new clients" or 3+ years out even starting a new project. Living in the Midwest, those were my go-to recommendations. Nowadays, it's anyone's guess for what shops have the bandwidth and reasonable lead time to accomplish a top shelf build.

phunt · 08-31-2023, 09:58 AM

I know it sounds weird and would probably be a three day drive but call infinite diesel in shingle springs ca (NorCal) ask for mike and ask about his Hotrod shop. Did some patch panels on my 66 better then the shops I was recommended to came up from socal yes it is far and most likely not an option but worth a call 530-677-9229 ask for mike

Racerbvd · Racerbvd's Garage

Quote:

Originally Posted by chucksmith

Air Cooled Classics in Knoxville TN does an excellent job

I 2nd this, Don literally Pioneered backdating 964 Porsches.

https://aircooledclassics.co/services/

Jamminman · 08-31-2023, 10:21 AM

Thanks for the feedback. They’re clearly experienced. A friend had mentioned Zurlinden Gruppe but I went to their website and it’s inactive. Not usually a good sign.

shoooo32 · shoooo32's Garage

Marc Zurlinden has built some solid cars, however I think he subbed the metalwork out.

Jamminman · 09-01-2023, 07:18 AM

I do have concerns about a company that farms out critical work.

colingreene · 09-01-2023, 12:19 PM

you could try getting a hold of Flat Six in minneapolis.

https://www.aaronhatz.com/

RSTarga · 09-01-2023, 01:41 PM

Do you have an idea of how much this will cost and the time it will take?
Cheaper to buy a finished car

Jamminman · 09-01-2023, 07:06 PM

You are absolutely correct that it is far cheaper and quicker to buy a finished car………..but I want what I want and won’t be happy with someone else’s dream.

I have tried to get in touch with Aaron. Hard guy to reach.

PTRL HD · PTRL HD's Garage

He's geared more towards hot rods but Fast Freddie's in Eau Claire, WI does excellent work. I have no doubt they would do it right. "John's Datsun" was one of the first import builds they did and ended up getting some awards at SEMA. And Fred's a great guy who will stand behind his work.

https://fastfreddiesrodshop.com/

I don't think he's done much with Carbon Fiber, so that would be something to discuss if you reach out to him.

Rodsrsr · Rodsrsr's Garage

I personally wouldn't take a Porsche to a shop that specialized in American Muscle.

mepstein · 09-02-2023, 11:24 AM

It just depends on their talent. The formula is easy and has been done to death at shops and in peoples garages.

Jamminman · 09-02-2023, 03:30 PM

I agree, a Porsche specific shop would be a must. Simply knowing the various venders of Porsche aftermarket parts is not likely to be in the wheelhouse of an American muscle shop

Rodsrsr · Rodsrsr's Garage

If you're willing to ship cross country then Perfect Lines Restoration in North Hollywood, CA did a fantastic job on my backdate, and they specialize in full restorations.

I pulled the engine/gearbox and fuel tank to ship the car down to them and they completed the job in less than 4 months. I was told the same 1-3 year wait time by most of the other shops out here.

Their shop is in So Cal, and I'm in Nor Cal about 6-7 hours away so I actually never stepped foot in their facility, but the communication was great. They would even send me pics of the progress. I did however let them know that I was looking to knock it out as quickly as possible and pay all at once. I don't like my cars sitting in a shop for years on end.

Here is the thread:

https://forums.pelicanparts.com/porsche-911-technical-forum/1142378-turbo-backdate-goes-major-surgery.html

Matt Monson · 09-03-2023, 04:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jamminman

I do have concerns about a company that farms out critical work.

Sometimes. Sometimes it’s the other way around. You have a general contractor remodel your home, but he usually calls in a plumber to do the pipe work. A mechanic who doesn’t do what someone can do better is a wise man.

3rd_gear_Ted · 3rd_gear_Ted's Garage

This guy is one of the best in SoCal,

https://www.kinningerracing.com/