Hunt for 3.2L. Any experience with these engine dismantlers?

SalazarS2K · 08-13-2003, 09:29 AM

After doing alot of research, I think I've decided to souce out a 3.2L for my RS project. There have been many RS clone threads that has been very helpful and a huge inspiration for ideas. Do any of you guys with a 3.2L conversion prefer sourcing your motors from private parties or the bigger dismantler companies? I don't have much experience with this, researching the internet have netted the following Porsche websites:

http://www.911pcar.com/porsche_parts_engines_complete.htm#911%203.2 (Good selection of motors, prices are a bit high)

http://www.dcautomotive.com/wrecks.htm

http://www.germanautodismantlers.com/products.asp?dept=1105

http://instant-g.com/ (seem to specialize in more 3.6Ls than 3.2Ls. I have read a few of you going this route.)

Individuals: Harold in GE and Rednine Co. (Both have supplied motors to board members)

Any help or advice would be appreciated.

ChrisBennet · ChrisBennet's Garage

dcAutomotive: I haven't bought a motor from him but I've bought other stuff from him. He's a good guy.
German Auto Dismantlers: Formerly (the infamous) PAP. Check the archives.
intant-G: A.k.a. Steve Timmins. He's a good guy. I bought a 3.2 from him and it was as represented.
Not that you asked, but Part Works of Chicago also sells motors: STAY AWAY FROM THESE GUYS. Search the archives.
Keep in mind that the 3.2's are gettng old and you should consider rebuilding whatever you get.
-Chris

Rot 911 · 08-13-2003, 09:46 AM

I agree with rebuilding what you have, that is if you already have a 3.2 for your project. While that $6000 is not unreasonable, for that same amount I can, by doing it myself, have a completely rebuilt engine.

SalazarS2K · 08-13-2003, 10:01 AM

Kurt, I am currently working out a deal for just the shell of the car. I had an option to use the 2.7L motor or find my own motor to install, hence the 3.2L. The car's main purpose would be for autox and the occasional track day (5-6 DEs a year). What mileage is considered too high and would warrant a rebuild? I am already aware of the premature valve guide issue, are there any other "gotchas" while I am on my search? The 3.2s seem to be running in the 6k range, is this fair market price considering the age?

Rot 911 · 08-13-2003, 10:05 AM

$6k is a fair price for a 3.2 with around 50-60K miles. BUT!!!!! that is also around the time the premature valve guide wear starts to rear its ugly head. Other than the valve guide issue the 3.2's are pretty bullet proof.

rattlsnak · rattlsnak's Garage

I know of a freshly rebuilt 3.2 from Franz Blam with zero miles on it for sale for @5.5K. After he got it rebuilt he bought a 3.6 instead. The engine is just sitting there. Let me know if youre intereted and ill give you the owners info.

SalazarS2K · 08-13-2003, 10:51 AM

rattlsnak, you have PM!

Mike Feinstein · Mike Feinstein's Garage

Mark,

Surprised you didn't jump on that 3.2 for your project. Franz Blam is a premiere rebuilder. With cams, PMO's, etc., I'll bet it'd be a rocket. For $5500 it seems like a steal.

rattlsnak · rattlsnak's Garage

I've had several cars that were "hopped up" before. Im done with that stuff. I want factory driveability. It should start on the first try when its 10 degrees outside as well as 100! Hopped up cars dont do that. Plus, even after I do all those mods, it still wont be as much HP as the 993 3.6.
I know of another engine for sale.. a 3.0 that is putting out @304 HP. Completely built. Passed on it for the above reasons.

Bill Verburg · Bill Verburg's Garage

I've purchased engines from both DC and Steve Timmins, both have been good engines exactly as represented, at a fair price(IMO)

rattlsnak (what happened to the "e'?) has perfectly outlined why a 3.6 t/p is such a sweet set up. He did neglect to mention that the torque of these engines is more intoxicating and probably more important to most of us who use them as daily drivers.