1961 356B Cabriolet Restoration.

While searching every Porsche website and German and American Porsche publication, Charles Taylor discovered this beautiful 1961 356B Cabriolet about 70 miles from Munich. He will take on the challenge of restoring this rough piece of elegant metal into something pure and divine...we hope. His surface examination reveals deep cuts in the metal, an incorrect engine, signs of a very shabby restoration attempt and the typical 356 rust. However, the car appears solid in the more critical spots. Once completed, he will add this gem to the two other Porsches tucked away in his garage. (a 1999 996 and a restored a 1964 356C)

Charles Taylor, Northern Virginia

 

We Look forward to seeing the pictures of her transformation. She's got lots of potential.

 

*Update 27th October 2003*

Things are moving along on the Cabriolet restoration. Current work includes replacement of the longitudinals, attacking early stages of door rust, repairing small sections on both sides of the front nose, replacing the bottom half of the left door skin and tackling a few spots under the wheel well. Although the floor pan is 80 percent solid, we made a decision to replace the front floor pan. The work is becoming increasing more aggressive now that Winter has arrived. Hopefully, this project will be nearly complete by January 2004.

Charles Taylor, Germany.

*Update August 2005*

Here is the latest update on Charles Taylor's 61 Cabriolet.

All the bodywork was completed in Germany. While the work was superior, the door gap on the driver's side is noticeably wide. In addition, the body shop failed to plug the European license plate holes before finalizing the gorgeous paint job. Thanks to the expert advice and assistance of German physicist Manfred Sappler of Munich we were able to rebuild the engine in 16 hours. The carbs were adjusted and the engine purrs. Unfortunately my restored gauges and hub caps were stolen while in the hands of the German shipping agent in Bremehaven. But the car endured no body damage as it crossed the Atlantic for its new home in Northern Virginia. Today this magnificent beauty awaits break lines, gear shift linkage, carpeting and fuel lines.

I will keep you posted on my progress.

 

It looks like your on the home straight, stunning transformation, thanks Charles, keep us updated.