CRASH, BANG Collaspe

[Grady Clay]

Slan,

Keep us informed of the progress.

The next step is farther diagnosis of what is necessary for the repair. The critical issue is the condition (rust damage) of the frame sheet metal.

Now is the time to do some preservation for the engine and fuel system. Neither likes just setting. Some preservative lubricant is in order while you can start and run the engine. These links focus on winter storage but much is applicable to keeping your car in shape.
“Winter Storage Checklist”
Winter storage checklist?
“Rust vs. Humidity vs. Storage”
Rust vs humidity vs storage
“What do you do about winterization?”
What do you do for winterization?


For further diagnosis, you are going to want to remove your engine, transmission, and rear suspension soon. Can you find someone to fabricate you a dolly for the 911 (or just the rear) to sit on? You want something that won’t interfere with the repair process and can stay with the car when it is taken to shops.

No, coil-over shocks are not a solution or even much of a preventive measure. The problem was caused be rust, probable stress from road conditions and the structure not being strong enough. When I say not being strong enough, IMHO there is a theory that Porsche applies to the strength of suspension components. That is the weakest is most outboard and they get progressively stronger to the main chassis. It is easy to replace a wheel, strut, trailing arm, etc. It is very difficult (and expensive) to repair a bent chassis. I think Porsche’s intent was to have the torsion bar tube be the “last line of defense” before the chassis got bent. Only later did they add the tunnel reinforcement due to the heavier cars.

Hopefully you can have an all-Ireland Pelican Gathering. Great camaraderie, useful help, and technical information. Who knows, you might get some Yanks. We will toast a Guinness to you all.

Best,
Grady