Engine drop?

[GSpreeman]

I've read Wayne's book, especially the section on dropping the engine. Well, it seems that I'm the proud new father of a 356 Porsche in need of an engine. How similar is the procedure? Can I do it myself (without breaking something?)

[Tim Walsh]

for a 356? I wouldn't think it would be much different, just disconnect everything and slowly drop it down.. but I've never touched a 356 before.

[Superman]

I was told that 356 engines, trannies and rear axles all come out together. I once heard of a guy who did a clutch job in 45 minutes, at a gas station stall he rented for 2 hours during a road trip. The local grease monkeys couldn't believe their eyes.

[GSpreeman]

Any suggestions on what I should be dropping in for an engine? The guy said he would send along a VW engine. I would guess that that will kill my resell price.

[targa80]

This is a post for the 356 board, but I believe the 4 cylinder 912 motor will go in without to much trouble.

[jmohn]

Should be easier than a 911, I've never done either one but I have LOOKED at them, the 356 is much less complicated and less "confined". As to engine (no VW, no, no), you don't say what year 356, so, unless you're concerned about originality, start looking for a late 356 ('63, '64) engine, once again "newer is better". They will all "fit" but the later engines were superior (unless you come across a 4-cam Carrera-- not likely). Get on a 356 specific board they'll be happy to guide you. I envy you, I'd love to have a 356 to put alongside the SC.

Jerry M
'78 SC

[jmohn]

Pat Henry's correct, but only the early 912's, the later "E" model used a VW engine (no, no, no).

Jerry M
'78 SC

[targa80]

Hey !

How about a nice big chevy V8!!!!!!!! Just kidding

Don't post that request on the 356 forum because you will be shot for sure.

[Wayne 962]

NO - the engine comes out without the transmission and axles. In fact, I believe that's the factory procedure. Compared to a 911 engine, it's very easy. First time for me, it took about 45 minutes to an hour or so - there just isn't too much to disconnect...

-Wayne

[boyt911sc]

This is a lot simplier and easier than a 911 engine drop. The engine easily separates from the trans and very few things to disconnect. Removing the the four (4) nuts from the transmission housing is the major task. After that, wiggle and pull the engine using a large floor jack.

[GSpreeman]

Wayne, or anyone else, have you written articles on the specifics of pulling the 356 engine? I picked up two books on restoration but they don't mention how to get the thing out of the car.

[tryan]

look underneath. if it's like a bug , the tranny is supported at the bottom. if you can bend a cheap boxed 17mm, she'll come out in about 20 minutes. heater cables, throttle cable and a few wires.

[Doug E]

Congrats on your new addition - a picture of a 356 and 911 side-by-side in one garage is sure to make some of us jealous!

BTW, a friend used to tell me that after a few drops on his Dad's 356 they had it down to just about 20 minutes. I was always skeptical but if Wayne is saying about 45+ minutes for the first time it sounds like he might not have been that far off.