Conversion from manual to electric windows in 1978 sc targa - practical? Possible?

[mycastle]

Ripping out and reinstalling all of the interior in my 78 SC. My son asked if it was possible to convert the manual windows to electric. So, before I did any real research, I found a set of regulators and motors and am about ready to start the attempt. Then I started reading and got the distinct impression that this was not a good idea. So, looking for some corporate wisdom here.....

1. Is it Possible or Practical to do this?

2. If so, any tips or pointers with the mechanical side (electrical is more straight forward for me)

Appreciate any candid input - Thanks

[javadog]

It's obviously possible. It's a time-consuming job, all though there's nothing that you can't do. The regulators are a little bit of a pain to wiggle into and out of the doors. Running the wiring takes time. You're better off doing a little disassembly in the trunk to get things out of your way than trying to fight the wiring harness past the various parts on the driver's side. Fishing the wires through the door jamb isn't easy. Some people pull the doors to get it done. The grommet for the window wiring will have to be changed, as there should be blank rubber plugs there now. Obviously, I advocate using factory wiring harnesses (used is fine) as opposed to making your own.

Also, make sure you have regulators for a targa, not a coupe. You'll need the adjustable height stop.

Good luck,
JR

[Tom F2]

The wiring is a pain in the neck. I had a 73 with an electric windows conversion.

IMHO, it detracts from the value of your car. Most SC's had electric windows. Your car's lack of options may be seen as kind of cool.

[whiskyb]

I did this in my 69, which is far from original so value was not a consideration. In my opinion any car as old as yours or mine that is original should stay that way if you ever plan on selling. Finding a nice clean unmolested car is harder to find everyday. Now if you decide to do it, its really not that bad. Round up all your pieces first if possible to ensure compatibility. I am cheap and like using what I have on hand. I was able to use the power regulator motor off of a Ford Taurus . Its the same tooth pattern and works great!

[RWebb]

I agree!

if you do it, save all old (original) parts & do the pass. door - that way you've done 1/2 the work and done it on the side you have to lean across to open/close

if it is too troublesome you can stop there

that said, I find that the very best way to get the pass. door window up & down is to have an attractive passenger on that side

[blee]

There is an alternative. You can convert your existing regulators without taking anything out. There is a trick aftermarket kit that allows conversion of manual windows to power by simply bolting on the new motor. All that is required is to remove the manual handle, insert the new gear over where the handle screws on, install the new motor behind the speaker cutout, connect the wiring, and voila!



Basically, the motor has flexible cables that drive the window crank. It is very compact and works well - I'd say less than 5 lbs. total. I just took this kit out of my car to convert back to manual: disconnected the wires, removed the motor, and installed the old window crank handle. That's it. PM me if you want mine as I don't need it.

[diamonddh]

As the Fiddler would say, "on the other hand.." why convert...the car is small, to reach over is really not a big deal...i have a 78 targa and converted from electric to manual and not looking back...they always worked but sometimes went up real slow...it also added weight unnecissarily. Went to the RS door planels and manual and looks great and doors are lighter, tighter. Save the time, spend it riding around with your kid.

diamonddh

78 targa, lowered, chromed fuchs, straight pipe, upgraded muffler, H4s, turbo tie rods, billstein sports, targa stabilizer bars, cloth targa top, front spoiler, delete: a/c, back seats, spare, parts for spare, new lighter battery, interior sound deadening, winshield washer tub, US back bumperettes to euro, center console, electric windows, door panels to RS, next up seats, hood,trunk to carbon

[mycastle]

Thanks for all the excellent feedback. Looks like it comes down to a preference call as it appears it is quit doable (especially with the aftermarket kit).

Here is the cool part of the feedback - I bought this 78 911SC this last October with the intent of making it a project that my kid and I could do together - so I want him to have ownership of parts of this. His first call was to replace the seats and modify the windows and get rid of the gaudy bling radio the PO put in (good call on the radio). After reading the feedback you posted, my son said "you know, we really should keep this car as original as possible - it just seems like that is the right thing to do". Brough a tear to my eye to see a 16 year old make a decision not on "coolness" or "modern comfort" but with a little respect for the vintage and originality of these wonderful machines. There is hope for the future generation!

So, I want to thank many of you who gave the wise council for my son to hear, not from my mouth, but from other Porsche enthusiasts.

We will be keeping it original. No anyone who needs electric regulators and motors? Got a set cheap!

[mycastle]

(repost of previous with after spell check!)
Thanks for all the excellent feedback. Looks like it comes down to a preference call as it appears it is quit doable (especially with the aftermarket kit).

Here is the cool part of the feedback - I bought this 78 911SC this last October with the intent of making it a project that my kid and I could do together - so I want him to have ownership of parts of this. His first call was to replace the seats and modify the windows and get rid of the gaudy bling radio the PO put in (good call on the radio). After reading the feedback you posted, my son said "you know, we really should keep this car as original as possible - it just seems like that is the right thing to do". Brought a tear to my eye to see a 16 year old make a decision not on "coolness" or "modern comfort" but with a little respect for the vintage and originality of these wonderful machines. There is hope for the future generation!

So, I want to thank many of you who gave the wise council for my son to hear, not from my mouth, but from other Porsche enthusiasts.

We will be keeping it original. Know anyone who needs electric regulators and motors? Got a set cheap!