New '83 SC Targa

[82680]

Just purchased the Targa with 61k mi. While I've owned a 356 Speedster for 48 years, this is my first flat 6. Everything works and it runs great. Clean PPI. Pretty good records from four previous owners in CA. Tune ups and oil changes and a pop off valve is about all that has been done over the years. My first question is what should I do with the engine?
1. Nothing 2. Chain tensioners? 3.???. It's running perfectly now and I'll probably drive it 2500 mi/yr. Just spirited drives, no racing etc. Any and all advice welcome.

[Dmitry at Pelican Parts]

I like the mindset "if it ain't broken, don't fix it" - since you're a seasoned Porsche owner, you'll know when something isn't right. Leave it alone and enjoy....until something needs to be done! I've attached a link to our DIY tech articles on the earlier 911s, use it as a guide to troubleshoot and for reference. Congrats on the buy.

Porsche 911 (1965-1989) Technical Articles - Pelican Parts


-Dmitry

[merlinfe]

Convert it to a backdated non sunroof coupe.

I kid.

Look into chain tensioners for prevenatative maintenance, but it might be more than it needs. I would just enjoy it for the time being. Stock SCs are hard to come by these days. I go back and forth about modifying anything all the time in my head. At the end of the day I usually live by a mantra of "Do no harm". Anything I do can be returned to stock, and the stock parts are preserved and put away for future use and/or refurbishment.

-Steve

[canamfan]

That engine appears to look all stock & it looks clean! Beautiful, what about new floor mats, cosmetics, if mechanicals are all in check, look at other areas that may need attention, I too (usually) operate on a "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" kinda' level that allowed me to really freshen up tired old cosmetics & accessories like quality car cover, Loyd's mats, lighted key head & fob etc. that hightened the experience for me.

[82680]

The upgrade of the chain tensioners is the obvious upgrade but is there any indication of the need to do this or should I just set aside some $$ and do it next winter?
Regarding the cosmetics of the care I'm very fortunate to have found a well cared for Targa. Even has new coco mats. Just have to deal with or live with some hood dings.
Have to keep reminding myself that it's a driver not a show queen.

[Luccia at Pelican Parts]

What a beaut! Very clean. Congratulations on the purchase and what a great first 911 to get. Remember, they're meant to be driven so give it plenty of attention and drive it. Just like you said, it's not a show queen, although she is pretty.

I'd just do some paint treatment, like a paint sealant and give it a good wax every 6 months or so. This is my process with my cars. The sealant I use is: Liquid Paint Sealant - 16oz - PelicanParts.com. Swear by these products. Enjoy!

[cpa]

82680
Good looking Targa, you'll get lots of good miles on it. Do the tensioners and find a good Dent Wizzard person for the hood. You'll be surprised at what a good dent person can do. Drive it and enjoy.

[autobonrun]

Congrats. I love the color. I went against conventional wisdom and put mechanical stops on my chain tensioners. I figured I'd just put new mechanical ones in the first time I had the engine rebuilt. That was 32 years ago and no rebuild (over 200k miles) I still think the pressure fed option is best, but the stops give you a degree of safety until you get it done. The stops are not that expensive.