This is a road well traveled for a lot of you, but I am in the process of my first 911 engine tear-down, (and top-end rebuild), and thought I'd share the experience for anyone contemplating a DIY engine job for the first time. The technical aspects have been well documented on this board and elsewhere, so this will be more of the zen and the art of 911 maintenence angle.
I have rebuilt a couple of water-cooled engines in my day, plus a VW or two, I have the tools and ability so I enjoy it if time and circumstances agree. Been a Porsche fanatic forever, even when I couldn't afford to actually own one. Bought a beautiful '82 SC coupe w/ 105k miles 1.5 years ago for what I thought at the time was a bargain price, but alas it had a broken head stud upon the first valve adjustment. Leaked a lot of oil, too, but still ran like scalded banshee. Oh yeah, 915 trans had the usual 1-2 synchro issues also.
Finally bit the bullet and dropped the engine/trans, gathered up some SSIs and 964 cams, have it down to a short block today. I was a little intimidated beforehand by the cams/rockers/tensioners situ, but here to tell you that it was much easier to disassemble than I anticipated. It comes apart in a very specific order that would befuddle anyone w/o proper books and advice, but very easy with these things. I am getting to see first hand the incredible engineering and workmanship that went into these cars, it's very enjoyable. Also, pleasant surprises as the heads and P/Cs look close to perfect. Oh yeah, I found another broken stud, (#5+#3 I knew about), and one broken valve spring, #2 intake. The cylinder linings look like "new in box". Gotta love these SCs!
I will post a running rebuild report to add to the considerable database here, but if anyone is thinking about taking the plunge and has a garage and good tools, go for it! It's less expensive than Vegas or other addictions, and a lot better for your head, IMO. Just try to match the quality of the incredible people who built these cars,
that's the zen. 
10-14-2002, 08:35 PM
