PORTECH
Uncertainty about air-cooled Porsches
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[1] Models from over half a century ago, such as the 356 and narrow, are also acceptable. This 356C is almost the final model, manufactured in 1964. [2] This is one of the earliest 930 Turbo models. It had been left unused for over 30 years, but it is said to be working again.
It’s been 26 years since the Porsche 911 was equipped with a water-cooled engine, but air-cooled models are still extremely popular. However, maintenance is a major headache for owners.
There are very few mechanics who are familiar with air-cooled 911s, and some have retired, making it difficult to obtain parts. More than anything, there are endless worries about where to ask for maintenance, and while there are several shops that handle air-cooled Porsches, can you really trust them?
Experienced former Sanwa mechanic
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[1] This is the latest model of the 930 Turbo. [2] This is a 1997 993 Carrera S (Tiptronic). It’s a popular wide-body model.
There is good news for air-cooled 911 owners. PORTECH, which opened in Gotemba, Shizuoka, is a maintenance garage specializing in air-cooled 911s. It was established by mechanics from Mitsuwa Motors, the official Porsche importer when the air-cooled 911 was on sale.
The mechanics who carry out the maintenance are former Sanwa mechanics with extensive experience working on air-cooled 911s, so you can trust them with your old 911. The vast factory is equipped with four lifts, and they can handle everything from light maintenance such as oil changes and vehicle inspections to more time-consuming work such as engine overhauls. They can also find hard-to-obtain parts from all over the world, making it a very reassuring experience. Apparently, they even bring in vehicles that other factories have turned down.
Indoor storage service also available
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[1] A complete set of owner’s manuals. These are all hard to find these days. [2] The tools used during the Sanwa Motors era are still in use. This case was apparently provided by Porsche headquarters.
There is also a wide selection of special tools, manuals, and other materials inherited from Sanwa Motors, making it seem as if the space itself has traveled back in time. In addition to maintenance, the facility also offers indoor vehicle storage services. While your vehicle is in storage, they will also charge the battery, check the oil, and start the engine regularly. We recommend leaving your beloved car there and visiting on the weekend or vacation to enjoy a drive around Hakone or Fuji Speedway.
It is compatible with not only the 911 but also the 356. It is a must-know for anyone who owns an air-cooled 911, as well as those who are thinking of buying one.
