porker espana

[Guest]

Hi there

My first post here so apologies if I am in the wrong bit...
I am a newbie SC owner ('80 coupe) planning on doing a nice long run down to the pyrenees and back to break her in. The car is in good nick but I really want to have it properly checked over before such a long run as there are some small niggles such as the alarm draining the battery and going off intermittantly which could cause some strain with the missus who hasn't the same patience for old motors as I do.
I was looking at Portiacraft in north london does anyone have any experience with them?
I see there is another thread elsewhere on French/Spanish driving tips but any SC specific tips whould also be appreciated in particular in relation to the heating which is still a mystery to me!

Cheers
Flemmers

 

[Guest]

Cheers John i'll look into those spares. I was thinking of getting a pop-off valve fitted too for extra peace of mind but I'll scan the forums for advice on that.
Where are you headed anywhere exciting?

 

[Nigel Mitchell]

Sounds like a great trip and well worth getting the car properly sorted before you go. I don't have any experience of Portiacraft but I can say that JZ Machtech in King Langley, just north of Watford, really know their stuff.

 

[nervy]

Hi,
Apologies, this has nothing to do with your SC, but we have travelled the Pyrenees with our SC and a good place to stay and eat (at a reasonable price) is a small hotel called Les Cimes, in the Val de Louron. Frederick speaks English and he and his wife will give you a warm welcome.
Here is their URL: http://www.hotel-les-cimes.net/
We have been there 3 times now and never been disappointed.
Regards
Alan and June James

 

[bones]

Good luck on your trip Flemmers, if your car has an electrical problem it is a good idea as a matter of course with a car of this age to replace and clean every fuse and their holders and apply electrical grease before refitting. Remove and clean the legs of the relays and push them in and out of their holders a few times to ensure a good contact. I've fitted an extra switch between the battery and the immobilser LED so I can turn the LED off in the garage when it's not being used, this effectively immobilises the car twice and the switch is hidden so making it even more difficult for a potential thief, plus the battery stays charged. Make a spares kit of a complete set of fuses and spare bulbs, one red relay as previously suggested and one black one, a spare fan belt and shims, a few of the correct spark plugs and a plug spanner and the tools needed to change the belt. If you fit a new belt before you go and some plugs you really shouldn't have any problems. If you are planning on tackling mountain passes it might be a good idea to have the brake fluid changed, take one or two litres of oil and keep an eye on the level if you cover in excess of 500 miles, (you know how to check a 911's oil don't you? Engine running, fully warmed up, level ground, check the dipstick not the gauge) finally I recommend Jazz and Chris Turner in North London.

 

[Guest]

Many thanks all of you for your replies.
Alan & June that looks like a lovely spot we'll be sure to have a look - perhaps while we try to catch the tour de France!
Bones very helpful advice, thanks. I will have a chat with the guys at Chris Turner and go over the alarm etc. I have a feeling something similar has been put on my car but it baffles me and just seems to drain the battery. I will get moving and ordering the spares suggested. Is Pelican Parts the best source?
Thanks again all I will endeavour to post some pics of the trip and any tales and tips on my return.

 

[bones]

When you speak to Chris tell him Pete Spence recommended you, all the fuses and bulbs are available at Halfords or similar motor spares places like Euro Car Parts. Pelican is ok for larger things but make sure if you ever get light units they are of the same spec. If not I recommend
http://www.partsforporsche.co.uk/osc/
and http://www.type-911.co.uk/
for the stuff you can't get there use your OPC but get a price before you buy or your wallet might not thank you.