'86 Targa - Are Side Body Braces Necessary?

[lfhunt1]

Hello All -

I have heard that early 911 Targas need side body braces… Are these really necessary for an ’86 911 Targa? I do not race it and felt it would only be adding weight. However, if I was to install them – would I really feel a significant difference in handling? Please advise – and thanks for any and all input.

L. Hunt

[Eagledriver]

I'll start out by saying I don't know what braces you are talking about. I've owned 3 targas. A 72, and 2 86's. The 72 had alot of "cowl shake". The 86 Targas seemed to be much better. I know they made them stiffer after 1983 when they started making the Cabs. If I still owned a Carrera Targa I wouldn't feel the need to add anything. I drove mine many times on the track and didn't notice a problem with shake or flex. I got a ride in a Ferrari 308 open top car and it was horrible for flex. It was on the track at buttonwillow and the thing chattered and shook on every corner. Very unnerving.

-Andy