Simple question... I think
 

Hi All,
Am doing some work on my 84 911 and need some better access to the alternator/fan housing. There's this black shock looking thing located toward the left side of the engine compartment that somewhat blocks access to the fan. I'm sure I'll probably irritate one of you experts with that description. Sorry, don't know how else to describe it and I'm still rather clueless about this stuff - though I am rapidly learning. But the question is what is this thing and could you loosen a few bolts here and thereby get better access to the fan housing? Wish I had a pic I could post of it but at this time I don't. Anyway, if anyone could give me some guidance - can you remove it, will you screw anything up if you do, etc, etc, that would be great.

Mike

It's a vibration dampner for convertibles. Just take it out to ge to the fan.
I'm sure Porsche has some fancya$$ name for it, though.

I knew it was a simple question :) thanks so much Wayne. The thing is driving me nuts. What purpose does it serve anyway? Mine is a 911 cab.

I believe that is is to suppress the vibrations/twisting of the motor that are transmitted throughout the body. Coupes don't need them as they have the stiffness of the roof. We coupe owners use the cabriolet motor mounts for extra stiffness for better "feel". They aren't a solid mount but are stiffer than the regular ones.

Is this device present in a targa?

Thanks Wayne,
Good to know. As I said, I'm learning...thanks to all you guys. What a great forum!

Mike

Not on my '85 Targa, believe its only for Cabs.