82 SC Project List - would like your input.

[pfyoung]

I am finally a Porsche owner....let the fun begin. I am outlining a "project list" to include interior and exterior items that need to be replaced on my 82, but am also interested in starting a list of things I can do to get the best performance out of my 3.0L. Any suggestions on things that you have done to accomplish this would be greatly appreciated.

[Blanco]

Best bang for the buck = Driving Event.

[Rodney Nelson]

Hey Peter,

Here is what is on my list:

1) H4 Headlight upgrade, done
2) Pop off valve, done
3) Carrera chain Tensioner upgrade, done
4) Short Shift Kit, done
5) Lower front end, done
6) KandN filter, done
7) New intake custom cover, done
8) Stereo/CD upgrade, done
9) Keyless entry, alpine alarm, done
10) SSI heat exchangers, purchased but not yet installed
11) Dansk dual in dual out muffler, purchased but not yet installed
12) New numerical style temp gauge, done
13) upgraded A/C compressor, done
14) Fan Powdercoated, done
15) Metal Porsche Crest, interior door pulls, done
16) Euro Side marker lights, purchased, not yet installed
17) 3rd Brake light, snorkel type, done
18) polished wheel porsche crest centers, done
19) Black Stone Guards, in front of rear fenders, done
20) leather mirror bras, done
21) new Rubber front Spoiler
22) Wish list 930S steering Wheel,


Good Luck and have fun spending all of that money!!!

[JK-81SC]

Congratulations on the nice ride! You didn't say if it was stock or not.

First, get Wayne's 101 project book. Tons of help for upgrades and fixing the car yourself to save a ton of cash.

The SSI exhaust/new muffler is the best bang for the buck.

Since you're in a mild climate, you might consider removing the the A/C parts. I just removed mine, and I was amazed by how much all parts weigh.

If you need to replace the clutch, get an aluminum pressure plate too. It's lighter and spins up quicker.

When I get enough pennies saved up, I'm getting the tbitz EFI kit. You'll get better throttle response, a bit more HP, better gas mileage...

[pfyoung]

Thanks!!!

Comments:
Yes, it is stock. I am looking to do as many improvements as "low profile" as I can but I am not crazy about keeping it 100% original as this is my first of many 911's.

Rodney, I have completed #'s (1,2,3,5,6,8) plus Euro Rear Fog Light and 160MPH Speedo.

JK, thanks for the insight on my AC. It actually doesn't even work so I should pull the weight out.

Questions:

1. What is up with the SSI Heat Exchangers/Exhaust, are they really that good?

2. Is the Bursch single in/single out replacement exhaust @ $300.00 a good value, or should I look at another (I would like to keep the single in/out.

Boy, this is really addicting.......

[Rodney Nelson]

Peter,

I like the Euro Fog light !!! I better put that on my list.

I also have the 160 mph speedo, I forgot to add that.

I can't believe you havn't heard about the SSIs yet, those are every man's dream just like Tall, Tan, Blondes (sorry off track). Anyway, yeah I guess they add about 20 bhp and the sound is great. There have been tons of discussions on these, but the end fact is that the Stainless Bling Bling is too much to resist. Yes you can use any exhaust you want but once you buy the SSI and see the pretty polished stainless, you will NEED to match up the exhaust, Dansk 2 or 1 out is what most prefer.

I noticed that you said that you didn't do the short shift kit yet, that really improves the overall shifting of the car, it is wierd at first because it feels tight and close, but after a week you won't believe how sloppy it used to be. That might be your next cheap upgrade.

[JK-81SC]

If you do a search on SSI, you will find hours of reading, and many many opinions on which exhaust to use. I went with a Dansk single out. If you get the SSI's, then you will need a dual in muffler. Then you can go with either a single or dual out.

The biggest thing to keep in mind with the SSI's is that they can NOT be used in states with strict emissions laws. They work so well because they are equal length headers, and they eliminate cross-over tubing and the catalytic converter. In Colorado my car is old enough for classic car plates which means no more emissions testing. The SSI's have the O2 bung, so the O2 sensor screws into the exhaust. Some people have sneaked by the visual inspection part of emissions since the SSI system confuses techs that aren't familiar with 911's.

[Mookster]

Before you spend a ton of money on "upgrades" establish a base line.

1. Flush out the old brake fluid with new. Replace ruber brake lines all 4 corners
2. Change the transmission fluid, Swepco 201 seems to be the popular choice of fluid.
3. My favorite...don't ask why, flush the gas tank and re-coat.
4. Wayne's book, 101 projects.
5. ...get the Bentley manual as well
6. replace shifter bushings.
7. refreshen the suspension, new rear shocks/ front inserts
8. change the motor mounts
9. Save for new tires if the skins are thin
10. replace rotor and cap
11. change the spark plug wires if arcing is noted
12. Have your a/f mixture tested by shop. I highly recommend this one..
13. buy some good metric tools so you can start doing some of the work outlined above.

and finally buy an extra fuel pump relay. $30 bucks well spent when you find yourself stranded

Nice looking ride.

[scottcip1562]

I got a 79SC about 5 months ago. A few things I did right off the bat was.

1 Carrera chain Tensioner for peace of mind.
2 Wevo shifter $$$$ but what a differance
3 Plugs, wires, cap rotor
4 Changed all fluids, brake trans, oil.
5 Motor mounts
6 Rear Shocks
7 SSI with Ben's Muffler, you will like the sound. I did the 2 in 1 out, did not want to cut the rear valance. I keep thinking I am done, but this site keeps me finding more things to do.

Welcome to the club.