Wing Window - Change to operable?

[Chris Lovell]

It's summer and the A/C is okay but who wants the windows up on a hot day. Maybe it's only me but has anyone longed to make the little wing window operable like the older 911s? If this can be done or has been done, could you please let me know.
Thanks.

[TRE Cup]

If the car is a targa- it is easy to do. Purchase a 74-76 targa wing window assembly. You may have to powder paint it to match, but its the easiest way to get opening wings.
If a coupe, then the problem is the early wing windows have a much heavier and older style frame. In 1970, Porsche went to fixed wings. So the coupe frames will have to be disassembled after a fit check, and then powder painted. As these are larger pieces than the targa, more suceptible to visual flaws.
If you are referring to the opening rear 1/4 windows in coupes, those can be easily fitted to your car. Be careful when poking thru the headliner looking for mounting holes- they are there and already threaded. Try to find complete used ones with latches (those are expensive)

[Chris Lovell]

Mine is a coupe. (therefore the heat problem) Modifying the side rear windows is a good thought but what I really am looking for, and I KNOW I'M NOT ALONE, is an openable, pivotable vent window to redirect a ton of fresh air directly into the cabin. I'm certain theft deterance and insurance prompted the fixed window since 1970 but I, for one, would like it back.
Do you think a creative body shop or auto glass place might be able to re-invent an operable vent window?
Anyone have any other ideas?

[jeff parker]

I don't have any answers, but I too would like opening vent windows. Central Texas heat and no AC is not real fun. I bought a set of targa windows but of course they don't work in a coupe

[pwd72s]

"I'm certain theft deterance and insurance prompted the fixed window since 1970 but I, for one, would like it back." Chris??? You are being FAR to generous! BEAN COUNTERS! It's cheaper to make 'em without wing vents...it's cheaper to make them without opening rear windows. AND..."We can charge more for air conditioning...who cares if it works or not?" (BTW, my '69 912? No front vent windows...I believe the vent windows went away when the wheelbase was changed.)

[billwagnon]

is the entire door interchangeable?

[RarlyL8]

My '73T Targa had front vent windows. Never could figure out why.

[pwd72s]

Rarly? Targas had the vent windows...coupes didn't. Like you, I've often wondered why...

[Chris Lovell]

With all the creativity and ingenuity on this BBS and with these cars, I'm amazed someone doesn't have the answer to the vent window delema. I will start asking around at some of the good body shops, glass places and metal working shops. I bet one of the local engineering schools could machine the pivots and glass frame in a snap. I'll let you know what I find out.
BTW, changing out the entire door for one with a vent window is an interesting idea. A bit excessive maybe.

[jpnovak]

My 71 targa has the vent wings and the 71 coupe project will get updated to compensate for the lack of AC. I found a set of vent wing window frames from a SWB car in good condition at the local swapmeet. I will be replacing the entire widow surround with the new(old) setup with ventwings. I don't think its possible to modify a wingless frame to a winged frame. AFAIK, The entire assembly can be changed. It will be a while before I get to that point in the project but stay tuned...

Jamie

[Paul Valcourt]

I had a 73 911 coupe with the fixed vents and the drivers side frame got damaged. I looked around and found a pair of 66 912 window frames complete with opening vents and changed them out. I think the older frames were a chrome plated brass structure while the newer frame was a lighter alloy.

[Carrera Charlie]

Both my Targas have vent windows. Unlike the coupe with the opening rear windows, Targas need the vent windows to induce airflow through the cockpit (thanks to Mr. Bernoulli's principle). As well, there's no other option for airflow unless you roll down the side window (affects passenger comfort) or use the Targa soft window (if you're so lucky)!!

This begs the next question ... why not have both front and rear vent windows on the coupe? As answered already, cost must have been a factor in the single-vent decision. I would also think airflow through the cabin would be a consideration (can you imagine the vacuum generated at 130 MPH with all vents open? You'd suck the shoelaces right off of her Keds ... hmmm, this idea has possibilities!! )

Just my $.02.

Cheers!