Help on my Frankenstein 80 SC front end!

[toddetch]

Hi everyone,

I don't know why, but it seems that at some point in the past at least part of the front end of my 80 SC Targa was replaced with parts from a 73 or earlier. I found this out when I bought a protective plate (part #911 341 161 04) that was missing and couldn't figure out how to get it attached. When I inquired back with 20th St. Auto and shoed them the pics I've posted below, they told me the cross brace was from a 73 or earlier model. Later, this was confirmed by my mechanic who did manage to get the alignment into spec.

So, I'm wondering how to proceed. I'm still new to my SC and have never done any suspension work myself. For now, I have left it as the car is in alignment and is driving well. The mechanic didn't see any reason to replace it. I would like to get the protective plate in place to protect my new fuel pump. I have considered working with the mechanic to modify the protective plate to get it in place. However, I'm also wondering if I decide to start refreshing/updating/upgrading the suspension if I'll end up with a Frankenstein front end or if I can move forward with no real issues. Should I source the appropriate cross brace and have the mechanic remove the current one and put the correct one in? Should I continue on as is since it is in alignment?

I'm including the pics I took of the underside to see if any Pelicans with more knowledge than me have some thoughts here.

Thanks in advance!

Todd

[juanbenae]

the steel cross member was in play until at least 75 as my S has the unit like you show. in speaking with staff at JWE if it was worth considering switching out to the aluminum later unit they shuttered and said no way. they would not backdate an aluminum to the steel, but stated let that sleeping dog lie as the steel one are just fine.

I might wonder why it was installed? possible severe front end contact with a curb or some other low immovable object.

[ossiblue]

Here's a picture of the front suspension you probably should have.



Notice the square shape of the cross bar, that will account for the different belly pan attachment. More important, IMO, is that the early cross bar does not account for a front mounted fuel pump. How is your fuel pump currently attached? The later cross bar has a bit more room to fit the OEM fuel pump between the bar and the fuel tank.

I'm no expert on front suspension, but I believe all your current parts will fit a later cross bar. Your mechanic will know.

[boyt911sc]

Do not waste your time and money for the alignment. Start buying the correct suspension parts for your SC and have them installed. I would budget about $500 or less to replace the missing SC suspension parts. Prepare a list of parts needed and post them at the classified section and you will have an idea how much they would cost.

Tony

[Uwon]

+1