Porsche & sports car news from sunny Devon:

1st May 2012

The workshops have been a blur in recent months with the usual 996's, Boxsters and Cayennes coming through along with a couple of early 911s - a 911L and a 911E sportomatic. Both of which have attracted a lot of attention from visitors to the garage or passing traffic. The team have seen a couple of Aston Martin DB9s recently which have had a few regular issues dealt with as well as routine servicing work.

At present the team are working on a 996 3.6, a Ferrari 348 gts, the '69 911 sportomatic, 911 3.2 carrera, 911 sc targa, 993 cabriolet.

Chris's 928gt has a problem with the psd diff - with fluid leaking from the accumulator. For the first time in four years the mighty GT is sleeping in the garage at home awaiting Ashley's genius to fashion a solution (the accumulators are no longer available). Working on the psd is a challenge as it is linked to the car's ABS system.

Ashley is in top form and has added yet another 911 to his model range (how many Porsche does a man need?), he can be seen fettling his new baby at weekends and is like a school boy searching for new parts and ideas to make the new car even better.

Dave's 944 is also residing in a garage in a sleep - he talks of selling it but we have threatened sacking if he no longer runs a Porsche... Joking aside, Dave is keen to move onto a 911.

Alen's museum of exciting and interesting models from yesteryear is growing. His 928 S4 is in top form and must be one of the best examples in the country - testament to the previous owners loving care (Ashley was the previous owner !) and Alen's meticulous preparation.

22 March 2012

 

09 February 2012

Work is ticking along well at the garage with a steady run of 996s, Boxsters, 911s, 964s and the odd 928 and 944. We have recently used a specialist in Ivybridge called AutoTrim Ivybridge. They have developed a great reputation for repairing and replacing cabriolet hoods/soft tops on a variety of cars including Porsches. Their work is of the highest standard - contact them directly if you are thinking of upgrading your Boxster hood for a glass rear window item, or for a hood repair. Link: autotrim-ivybridge

 

25th January 2012

The Braunton team have hit the ground running this year with a good selection of Porsches through the workshop doors in the last few weeks. With 2x 997 Carrera S, 996 Carreras & a 996 Carrera 4S, a 968 sport, a 964 targa, a 993 S, a selection of Boxsters and a few other interesting shapes; 2x Aston Martin DB9s, Audi Quattro, and a Ford KA (no, only kidding about the KA).

News re Porsche parts prices... Porsche have changed many of their parts prices in the last month. Braunton uses the PET Porsche parts catalogue which features the new prices. Not all the parts have increased but if you have any doubt please give us a call or speak directly to OPC Exeter for confirmation.

Braunton Menu prices have been expanded to include many of the most common faults on the 997, 996 and Boxster models. These usual suspects (which almost every one of these models suffers from at some point) include; air conditioning condenser leaks, suspension lower wishbones (coffin arms) wear, ignition coils insulation breakdown, exhaust fastener corrosion, 997 tandem oil pump corrosion. 

If you are passing by the garage in Braunton, please stop by for chat about your requirments.

19 December 2011

Recent work at the garage has seen some lovely Porsches out to play despite the stinking, wet weather; 997 S, 996 C2, Cayman S, Boxster 986 & 987, 928 S4, 968 sports & Cayenne S. Some of the cars have had new boots for the winter with Michelin topping the charts for most popular choice in the last four weeks... One of the most expensive brands, but possibly the most respected for road use when grip - wet or dry and longlife are the critical deciding factors. 

Ashley and Dave love having their photo taken - discussing a drilled brake disc to be fitted to a rare yellow Boxster S.

Work has mostly been routine menu jobs... Interestingly the 997 S has some very corroded exhaust manifold bolts and mounting brackets that involved some delicate extraction (one of Ashley's talents - with over 25 years of turning nuts & bolts, he states the talent lies all in the wrist !) But seriosuly, should a 6 year old 997 really have so much corrosion underneath including the oil pump cover? Shocking.

If you are passing by, please pop in for a chat or to pick up the service prices for your model.

The team at Braunton (Ashley, Chris, Dave, John, Alen, Steve and Amanda) would like to wish all the Porsche owners a sincere Merry Chrismas and a most prosperous New Year - Lets hope 2012 brings some sunny, dry days with clear roads to exercise our Porsches (in a safe and respectful manner, of course), All the best in 2012, Chris

15 November 2011

The team are busy with a selection of cars... A superb left hand drive SC has arrived for some minor fettling (I love these leftys - brings back many happy memories of my 1st 911, a 3.2, it's the driving position - perfection (like the old M3 evo) your hand falls right on the gearlever, with the seat pushed forward, the dash and screen are worn like spectacles! Makes me think about finding another, rambles Chris). A mint 968, a mint 944 turbo, a yellow Boxster (not many of these babes about), a Cayenne with a death-rattle and a 928 S4 with breather hose failure.

04 November 2011

Braunton will be advertising in Total 911, 911 & Porsche World and Porsche Post each month. We are developing a presence on Facebook and LinkedIn and there is some discussion in the workshops about twitter too but we will have to see...

The workshops remain busy with the Ferrari 355 having just returned for some upgraded Brembo brake discs - what a beautiful shape & the sound of the V8 is ear-to-ear grin inducing... Something to aim for for the future (...to run alongside a 911 of course). The usual suspects; Boxsters, 996/997s and 911s come and go, but generally it is a bit quieter this time of the year up here in North Devon as cars are put to bed for winter hibernation.

Chris, Ashley and Dave continue to use their Porsches throughout winter - they seem to go better the more one uses them. Laying them up has it's benefits but there are negatives too...

19 October 2011

Current projects include two 996s in for a variety of jobs, from servicing through to one with a burnt out engine wiring loom and a faulty cam solenoid. There is a feeling of great satisfaction completing such projects and then driving a much improved (rescued) 996 which is returned to it's former glory. An Aston Martin graces the premises at present with a Ferrari 355 due in for routine work in the next week or so, a Ferrari 456 'has just left the building'. We have Cayenne S with a gearbox fault undergoing Dr Ashleys surgery. Other jobs include routine work to a Boxster S, and an anniversary edition Boxster 550 spyder.

Braunton Engineering have initiated an advertisement in 911 & Porsche World - please look out for the advert. Initially these will be fairly run-of-the-mill looking ad - the second edition of adverts will be more "off the wall" but still retain a mature attitude (sorry, there wont be any semi-clad hot-chicks adorning Porsches)... but we will endeavour to liven up the pages of the magazine in an appropriate, typically Braunton manner - watch this space ?

Chris believes his 928gt requires a clutch release bearing - the clutch was replaced by an independent a few years back when the car was in the care of its previous keeper. However, the independent did not replace the release bearing at that time, simply fitting a friction plate, and the old one is whirring badly. A full inspection will tell.

Dave's 944 is behaving well and Ashley's 964 is due for MOT. Alen's 928 is clean and now residing in an oxygen tent... We joke that he has set up a tv with sky for the old girl to watch, such is the TLC that his 928 receives.

Busy days indeed, but please do not hesitate to call for a chat or drop by if you are passing !

 

6th October 2011

Sun, then rain, wind, then sun once more - what a day. A special day for Braunton with 24 Commando Engineers parade having returned home from the war in Afghanistan. With the high street closed for 3hrs, people lined the kerb with Union Jacks, friends and family of serving soldiers, proudly stood to, as first the band then 24 Commando paraded past - well done boys!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

23 September 2011

The last few months have been a busy time for the team at Braunton, a nice variety of cars from a number of air cooled 911s, turbos, to Boxsters, 996s, 997s, and Cayennes, a Ferrari, TVRs Cerbera, Chimaera. The summer months bring a lot of cars out for repair & servicing, some of which, dare I say it are garage queens, but in such great original condition - a credit to their owners.

Work on our own Porsches has been shelved due to the workshops running at full capacity - we hope to attend to our own cars faults as things naturally quieten down in the winter months.

We have a new "For Sale" page on the website. Customers of Braunton are welcome to email info of their Porsches/exotics for sale for free listing on this page. The page is optimised for the search engines.

For Sale: Porsche Boxster 3.2 S  42,000 miles, FSH  - (Now SOLD 23 Sept 2011)

MOT to June 2012, taxed to Nov 2011.

2001 model year. Porsche Boxster 3.2S (252 bhp), offered by Porsche specialist Braunton Engineering www.sportscarrepair.co.uk

Recent major service.

Blue leather seats, Electric hood, electric windows, spoiler, cd/radio, ABS, AC, airbags. 6 speed manual.

18inch Porsche (genuine) alloys. Pirelli P-Zero Rosso tyres. Supplied with Braunton Engineering's own 3 months warranty.

Extensive pre delivery multi-point check in accordance with Porsche service schedule. Braunton Engineering is a MOT vehicle testing station.

Contact: Tel 01271 814144

email: info@brauntonengineering.co.uk 

Vehicle Summary Performance & Economy Fuel consumption

Fuel consumption (extra urban) 36.2 mpg 

Fuel consumption (combined)      26.4 mpg

0 - 62 mph        5.9 seconds

Top speed         163 mph

Cylinders           6

Valves   24 v

Engine power     252 bhp

Road tax: £215 per annum

26 July 2011

The workshops are busy with: Porsche 968 club sport (the original NEC show car for Porsche GB), Porsche 930, Porsche Boxster 3.2S x2, Porsche Boxster 2.5, Porsche 996 Cabriolet, Porsche 997, Porsche 944 S2 cabriolet. Workshop two sees the Testarossa near completion and the Lotus Elan SE receives ongoing work to bring her back to former glory. 

19 July 2011

Secure parking for your pride and joy; the beauties sleep indoors with alarmed security.

The team are at full speed at present with some regular servicing and specific area repairs to an awesome collection of iconic shapes. Chris comments, "It is a joy to come to work at the moment - to walk through the workshops and witness such a diverse collection patiently awaiting attention."

The workshops see a gaggle of Porsche Boxsters of various flavours and a few Porsche 996's in for MOT, servicing and minor fettling - the usual age and wear related issues. Workshop 2 sees a Lotus Elan SE in for suspension and brakes rejuvination. The Ferrari 456M returns from a pan continental trip which included the Le Mans race. A service and check over keeps the Italian beauty in fine shape for another trip later this year. Like the Testarossa, this car is used weekly and driven how it was meant to be, garage queens these are not. Having a familiar and caring specialist inspect a car like this is worth it's weight in gold when it comes to delivering future reliability and correct running. Braunton spend some time ensuring their customers cars are in fine shape and advise whenever anything is amiss.

Other delights for the Braunton crew; a Porsche 930 - the original 911 turbo - this one is in Porsche original racing colour - grand prix white - this will be with us for a few days as we MOT and replace some corroded fuel pipes. This is a very special car - a mint example that has had some suspension, engine work along with some larger alloys fitted. Although it features slight cosmetic changes, these are easily reversible for the original spec - to retain future value. If you are considering a change of wheels, it may be a good idea to keep the originals for when you decide to sell the car (?)

27 June 2011...The Devon workshops are at full speed with some great shapes passing through the doors in the past month or so. A fleet of Porsche 996s and Boxsters have passed through in the last six weeks, and some lovely condition 993s and 964s, with the star award going to a mint condition 930 in grand prix white which had men tripping over themselves and girls smiling wildly here in the high street of Braunton - well, one does not see a 911 turbo very often these days !

The Ferrari 456m left after thorough servicing for a continental trip, the 355 left after a top end engine rebuild – six inlet valves were bent from whom so ever previously put the cambelts and tensioners on and incorrectly set the engine timing.

The Le Mans trip was a huge success… The road trip with cars, Porsche 964, Porsche 928gt, Porsche Boxster S, Porsche 928gts strosek, Aston Martin DB9 & Aston Martin DB2/4 went very well with some great sectors to Poole and then on the road from Cherbourg to Le Mans – all the cars behaved and so too did t-data; name="longtitle" News into the circuit was of monster proportions and probably provided more of a test the cars than any high speed runs, especially as it was such a hot day. There were a few stretches of hi speed pursuits, but all participants were observant of the speed restrictions stated on German autobahns...

 The camping facilities with 1^st Tickets were excellent, secure compound, central marquee with tv coverage, bar and tea coffee facilities, good shower and toilet facilities – other groups in our compound included AMOC (Aston Martin Owners Club) Pistonheads.

 The Le Mans race is a true spectacle - such a test of the cars and teams throughout the time period. It represents an endurance challenge to the spectator wanting to follow certain cars progress – tuning into Radio Le Mans with live English commentary was the only way to pick up the story after the odd snooze, walk or meal !

The Le Mans road trip represents an epic five days escape, with the highlights for many being the convoy of cars with walkie talkie support making their way in flying formation and with great team spirit – the convoy made its way in swift (but mature) fashion past slower vehicles… The only mishap was an errant stone/missile which landed on the DB9’s rear window causing it to shatter on the return to Cherbourg… the window proceeded to craze as we all stood and watched in silence. Other than that the cars and intrepid (tired) travellers enjoyed a superb Le Mans experience and we look forward to next year's race or maybe the classic.

Le Mans 2012… We are considering organising a group trip to visit Le Mans in 2012 or the Classic Le Mans 2012. The group will consist of… the key Braunton Engineering team with friends and customers. If this trip is of interest to you please email Chris on info@brauntonengineering.co.uk to register for further information later this year…

10 May

Workshop 1: Porsche 993, Porsche 996, Porsche Boxster, Porsche 911 brighten the workshop in sunny Devon this week with routine work and some specific area repairs.

Workshop 2: A TVR Chimaera with work to the clutch operation and some tweaks to exhaust hanging and the Ferrari 355 top end engine rebuild proceeds with some new valves ordered to replace the ever so slightly bent ones Alen and Ashley discovered in their Sherlock investigations. Next week sees another Ferrari due in for Le Mans road trip preparation... 

The teams Le Mans road trip preparations proceed with each car undergoing a top to toe loving embrace of new parts, fitting, modification and testing. The mickey taking of each others efforts reachs new heights with hearty gaffaws as individual tastes are expressed and criticised - each to their own.

Dave prepares his new sh 944 engine supplied from Pro 9 when his previous unit expired after rigorous tesing over Exmoor ! Better that it went here than on the continent. Chris' interior is looking a bit better and should be complete for the June trip, with some new rubber due any day now; new set of Bridgestone SO2s and a full set of cooling hoses for the 928 GT. Ashley's 964 is back on the road after the engine has seen some serious TLC, Ashley style (such passion for oily things ;))  The new Fabspeed exhaust has delivered extra power and sounds awesome - thank you Fabspeed USA !  

The Fabspeed Porsche exhaust is a piece of artwork worthy of display.

Some jobs still to do for the intrepid road trip entrants. The two way radio testing did not go very well and the items were returned, with some higher power items due in soon - the radios are supposed to make convoy travelling easier but if reception is down to 1km it seems a pointless exercise.

3 May 2011

Workshop 1: With regular servicing to Porsche 997 & 996, Boxster and 911s the team are turning the jobs around well whilst fault finding and repairs to Porsches take extra time to correctly diagnose efficiently, the technicians enjoy the challenge presented with each weeks offering of Stuttgarts finest shapes - a terrific variety of modern era Porsches & the older 1980's Porsche requiring TLC from the Porsche fanatics of Devon.

Workshop 2: A Ferrari 355 minus it's engine - the engine is undergoing a top-end rebuild on site due to a fault with the valves on one head resulting in rough running and loss of power. The technicians have something to get their teeth into and love working on engines such as Ferraris multi valve V8 - a rewarding job for experienced technicians Alen and Ashley who work with due diligence and bring some great humour to the workshop - thank you.

28th March 2011

The workshops are full with some inspiring cars:  Porsche 996 turbo, 3x Porsche Boxster S, Porsche 928S2, Lotus Elan se, Ferrari 355, Porsche 911 3.2 cs. Some minor fettling and some for major strip down to cure faults.  The Ferrari 456m GTA has just left after some modification to the drivetrain & alarm system to cure irritating faults. Work is progressing well and team spirits are high to see another Ferrari and such a good selection of Porsches... The Porsches are starting to emerge from winter hibernation and book in for servicing, MOT and repairs in North Devon. 

The team are starting to think about finalising their cars for the Le Mans trip - six cars are travelling to meet at Le Sarthe, five to leave from North Devon in convoy in June; Aston Martin DB9, Aston MArtin DB2/4, Porsche 928gt, Porsche 964, Porsche 944 to meet a Porsche 928gts from Paris at the circuit. After much debate and mickey taking, Ashley is keen to take tables, chairs, cooking equipment to cater for all 12 but Chris is still clinging to the original lightweight, mountain man plan - army rations, trangia and moderate discomfort.

28 February - The workshops are full with some pretty shapes - all hands to the pump this week. The building is undergoing a face lift with some localised building and decorating work to the front. The team are in high spirits to be working on such great cars - thank yous offered to the supercar gods.

Week 21 February - Things are hotting up in North Devon... The garage is currently blessed with some exciting exotics which adds a spring to everyone's step and a smile to the face. Workshop 2 exceeds all expectations this week with the shapes: aston martin V8 part-resto nears completion, aston martin Db9, maserati 3200gt, ferrari 456gta, tvr cerbera. Workshop 1 sports the continuing 911 SC commissioned-resto, routine Boxster and 996 servicing, 928 suspension repair, and the distinctive 968 leaves the North Devon fold to return to owner.

 

Week 14 Feb - The workshops are buzzing at present with Porsches; 968, 997, 928, 911 SC, 964 & a Ferrari 456M. The team are on target with each project - all going forward at a steady pace. Next week the exotica continues with a Maserati and a TVR Cerbera turning up for rust proofing and MOT.

 

 

 

 

 

 

1st February - The workshops are 'cracking on' with huge advances with the 911 sc restoration ready for the paintshop booking. Regular servicing of a variety of Stuttgarts finest. Repairs to a 928 with a coolant leak, a second S4 requiring investigation into an engine noise. The gloomy day brightened when a mint condition Ferrari 456M GTA turned up for some investigation to an engine management light and a few other issues. The Aston Martin V8 is due back from the paintshop in the next few days. 

The workshops see a variety of cars at present; A 996 cab for MOT and repair, a mint 928 S4 with cambelt change and repairs to make perfect for a fastidious owner along with a 996tip and a Boxster for servicing. The 911 targa restoration continues and the Aston Martin V8 part-restoration nears the final stages. A Boxster S is readied for sale on behalf of one of our customers. Chris and Ashley's cars (928gt & 964) await preparation for this year's Le Mans trip; some jobs to do to make perfect.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5 January 2011 

2011 ! Happy New Year to all sports car enthusiasts! Here's to some blue skies, sunny & traffic-free days for exercising our pride and joys.

Braunton team are in good spirits and back up to full speed with some exciting cars booked in for servicing and repair. Restoration projects continue at a steady pace.  We will be following the fitting of a Fabspeed exhaust to a 964 - watch this space for a forthcoming article - the Porsche Fabspeed exhausts are works of art - very well presented stainless systems that deliver extra horses and a sound to 'loosen undergarment elastic across the county'.

Recent work includes welding to a Porsche 944 floorpan due to water ingress over a long period of time allowing water to sit under the front seats. Owner beware... If you have water ingress in your Porsche from: hatch rubber seal, sunroof seals, sunroof incorrect park, targa roof seals, hatch hinges, door seals, correct seating of hatch and/or doors, aerial seal, window seals, front windscreen seals, scuttle panel seal failure, heater matrix, blocked drain holes in scuttle panel, doors, hatch aperture, wing recesses etc, do not let this go. It is important to stay on top of water ingress and to find the source of the leak and find a solution so that your car remains dry inside. We see some terrible corrosion due to water ingress leaving either carpets damp or worse, a level of water sitting at the low points of the floor pan and inner wing recesses. Porsches that tend to suffer from this are the Porsche 944, Porsche 928, Porsche 964, Porsche 993, Porsche Boxster, Porsche 911. 

It can be very difficult to find the source of the water ingress, the first clue to the source is the wettest, highest located part of the dampness - if that makes sense. Most common sources for water ingress are listed above, and sometimes can be a combination of more than one leak especially in cars which are older than ten years.

20 December 2010

Save the Nurburgring ! A facebook campaign to rescue the famous circuit from doom, link to a Christmas wish and an appeal by racing driver Sabine Schmitz about the financial problems the management company face at the Nordschleife: Sabine Schmitz

Snow on the road means the Porsche stays at home? Most folk with a sports car are reluctant to drive them in iffy conditions, and it is understandable - it is not just that it is tricky driving the contraption itself but it is those other drivers who drive without enough consideration that one has to look out for...

It is a little quieter this week as we lead up to Christmas and with the bad weather we have had some postponed bookings, rescheduled for the new year. It is a great time to have a look at the classified adverts, to check what is for sale - tempting. This is the best time of year to pick up a low priced Porsche, or TVR, Lotus for that matter. Selling mid winter, especially around Christmas time is a bit hit or miss and vendors tend to lower their prices to try and secure a sale.

Restoration projects continue in the workshops and a few routine servicing bookings keep the technicians busy for customers keen to beat the VAT rise on 4 January 2011.

Comedy Moments:

Link to short film on you tube - An amusing take on having one's pride and joy dinged in a car park: You dented my Porsche

Buying a Porsche? Have a look at this short film on you tube for an amusing tale of a vendor selling a Porsche 993 and a fussy, unrealistic buyer: Porsche 993 for sale

RUST PROOFING - Its a messy job but someone has to do it:

Using your Porsche during the winter? It pays to wash your vehicle thoroughly and give the car a coat of wax on a frequent basis. Washing the underside is worthwhile and some customers book in around Spring time to have an underside clean and rust proof of Waxoyl. With the extra salt and grit on the roads at the present moment coupled with the fact that the South West tends to have a salty atmosphere from predominant weather off the Atlantic Ocean, corrosion to our cars is a very real prospect that every owner needs to stay on top of. An underside clean and waxoyl starts at £150+vat which includes the labour & materials for cleaning and application of the waxoyl. You can do this job yourself, and I have, over the years of owning TVR, Lancias, Porsches spent much time lying on the floor spraying waxoyl everywhere (not just on the car). One top tip if you plan some waxoyling once the local area is clean and dry, stand your waxoyl in hot water prior to spraying - this thins the waxoyl and allows a much stronger spray pattern and prevents blockages - the waxoyl will go that much further. Black waxoyl is great but hides the corrosion so you cannot keep and eye on it in following years. Clear waxoyl allows one to keep an eye on the area and lets you know when the area needs attention again. 

14 December 2010

Exciting motorsport news from Porsche this week: The new Porsche GT3 R Hybrid runs at Atlanta and Zhuhai (China), significantly the fastest GT at Zhuhai, the most efficient too... Are the days of Le Mans winning diesels coming to an end - lets hope so.
The GT3 R Hybrid uses a kinetic energy storage system (similar to F1 KERS) but with an electric flywheel accumulator... Further reading at: Porsche - GT3 R Hybrid - the future of racing

This week started with an Aston Martin DB9 for investigation to a fault. Restoration work continues on the Porsche 911 SC and the Aston Martin V8. Routine Porsche work includes cambelt and balance belt, water pump and rollers to a Porsche 944s, servicing and brakes replacement for Porsche Boxster S, annual service to a Porsche 911 3.2, Porsche 997 and a Cayenne.

Mince pies galore - the team keep their spirits up in these cold times with hot mugs of coffee and the odd mince pie or pasty. Despite the space heaters in the workshops, the technicians represent a tough, committed breed to work during the winter - working on cold nuts and bolts, and cars which sometimes wear quite a coat of road filth takes an enthusiast who can deal with the hardship but keep an eye for the detail.

Braunton Engineering will be advertising in the Porsche Club GB monthly glossy magazine for the next year with a listing near the back with a map of the UK. If you have thought about joining the Porsche club, one of the incentives is that AON/Footman James insurance company offer 10% discount form the annual insurance premium on 'classic' and 'future classic' insurance policies. The saving on the insurance premium almost covers membership of Porsche Club GB, so it makes sense to join just for this reason alone (?) Members receive a monthly glossy magazine which features regional news, model news, some interesting editorial and advertising for members cars and established Porsche traders offering a great variety of models. Other benefits include social events with members monthly meets, drives and places of interest to visit. Link to the Porsche Club GB website

The Braunton  Engineering team: Ashley, Chris, Dave, John, Alen, Steve and Amanda would like to take this opportunity to wish Braunton customers and fellow Porsche enthusiasts, the very best of seasonal wishes for Christmas 2010 and a prosperous New Year! Here's to some great days, driving Porsches in 2011 !

6 December 2010

Just when you though it could not get any colder, it does! Freezing, the temperature gauge outside recorded -6 degrees.

Porsches in for work include a lovely maritime blue Porsche 968 sport for some new Bridgestones, drivers door handle fault and bits and pieces. Porsche 928 S4 for a cambelt and water pump change with tensioner rebuild and some other minor fettling. With routine servicing on Porsche Boxster 987, repairs to a Porsche 996 Carrera 4S, servicing to a Porsche 993, and investigation into a Porsche Cayenne with dreaded timing chain stretch. Renovation projects continue with the Porsche 911 sc, Aston Martin V8.

30.11.10

The team are in high spirits despite the frosty temperatures - the workshops feature new space heaters which keep the chill out nicely.

Work continues on project cars; Aston Martin V8 with a new article following the local area restoration to the front inner wings coming in the next week. Some intense fabrication and detailed welding work by Dave as he brings back a gem of a car to top condition with his spanish fabricator (Mig Welder). The local area has had the rust cut out and new panels shaped and welded in to exactly match the original factory finish. Restoration continues with the 911 SC.

Regular servicing and repair takes the shape of 928 S4, 996, 968, Boxster and Cayenne models this week.

Some new web pages are due on the website soon - watch this space.

Visitors are always welcome, if you are interested in restoration, please drop by to inspect the Aston or 911 sc.

22.11.10

With regular servicing and repair work, restoration projects the team also look to develop and fettle their own cars during the winter period. Power increases and performance modification are on the list as well as the constant rejuvenation required by some of the older cars in the fleet.

Work progresses with; Aston Martin V8 - tuning and front brakes renovation and some accident repair to the front. With the front aluminium double skin, the bodyshop looks to use discreet methods to remove a small dent from the front wing with no use of filling material - a job for a patient technician. Porsche 964 undergoes oil leak rectification and then fitting of a Fabspeed exhaust. A Boxster requires some magic to the operation of a window and investigation into battery charge and possible parasitic load.

A 928S4 is due on the Beissbarth for geometry alignment after suspension overhaul and subsequent lowering - setting the suspension up accurately according to the factory settings after reassembly of suspension can be a time consuming business, not least because ride height is affected by a vehicle being jacked - frequent road tests between adjustments allows the ride height to settle to its natural level. 911 Sc restoration work continues - a rewarding job especially as the restoration is a commission from a returning customer who previously commissioned a volvo P1800 restoration with Braunton a number of years ago. 

On the list of jobs to do this week, we will be looking into developing the car collection service, the costs etc and looking into establishing a good rate on car rental or possible leasing courtesy cars in the coming year. 

15.11.10

Wow, what a finish to the F1 season - Alonso cant be the first person to be miserably stuck behind a Renault ! Much sympathy (but what goes around comes around as they say). Fist shaking anger. Those who have done the same to an innocent Renault driver put their hands up?

The Abu Dhabi track fails to impress because drivers find it difficult to overtake (surely an oversight on the designers part  "they shoot horses don't they." ...fetch the shotgun Bernie!) apart from the championship finale, what a dull procession, I was expecting Massa or Alonso to execute do or die efforts to overtake.

Vettel is a class act - Well done to Red Bull, the double. Much respect to Adrian Newey for designing the best car without a doubt. 

F1 blathering aside, the team have dropped the hammer (for want of a better expression!) on the current projects in the workshops, or maybe I should re-phrase that (hammer meaning accelerator - wordplay), An Aston V8 with vacuum booster issues, 928gt track suspension modification (engineering modified adjuster nuts & spring seats), 911SC a commissioned restoration project, Original Alpina - rebuild project, and some routine servicing & brake replacements on Boxsters, 996s and 997.

In addition to customer cars, the team have a schedule of work due on their own cars in preparation for the trip to Le Mans in 2011. It would be nice to see our cars as examples of the standard of work we practise at Braunton. Dave's 944 - you can see a very high standard of welding which is his speciality. Employing a specialist like Dave is critical when restoring 911s and the like - the finish he creates is to the highest level, recreating the 'factory look'. 

Braunton Engineering are now an official Fabspeed supplier, offering a fitting service. We await Fabspeed exhausts this week and will follow with an article and possibly a web page devoted to promoting the supply and fitting as a approved Fabspeed distributor.

09.11.10

It feels like winter is taking its grip with temperatures starting to fall. The team are preparing the Aston Martin V8 which has some issues with brake vacuum, clutch and cold start with some bodywork to come. The 911 SC targa features a repaired gearbox and is ready to leave the fold. Long term projects; 911 SC and BMW factory Alpina part restoration progress at a steady pace which benefit from distant deadlines.

We are proud to be ordering FABSPEED exhausts from Pennsylvania USA. A 964 is having the upgraded stainless max flowed system from one of the highest quality performance exhaust manufactureres available. Visit Fabspeed website: Fabspeed exhausts to peruse their product line up and read their customer reviews. We will be following the fitment of this exhaust with a technical article on a website near you soon and hope to be appointed as a UK fitting agent.

In addition to FABSPEED products we are big fans of MPL products who make an upgraded clutch slave cylinder to fit Porsche 993 and Porsche 964. The cost of the product is £175.00 +vat, made by MPL in Germany. The difference in the feel of the clutch pedal before and after fitment of the reduced effort MPL slave cylinder is amazing. Reduces 993 & 964 clutch pedal effort by about 30%. To view the MPL clutch slave please click on this link: MPL 993 Clutch slave. We will be posting a technical article on this great product on the website soon with some other technical notes on the 964 clutch release arm which was superseded by a new part at Porsche due to a slight shortcoming. We hope to be appointed the UK fitting agent for MPL products and have a stock of these on the shelf at present.

There is a 928gt is due to be lowered this week and have the geo set up check and adjusted. With fitment of wider Porsche alloys which should feature in some photos and a new 928 article.

01.11.10

Work progresses with a 996 turbo - some minor fettling, a 964 C2 various issues including clutch noise, A, err, Aston Martin V8 for MOT repairs and some rust prevention (this cars a ripper - four weber carbs!), 911 SC and Boxster S, 996 Cab with alternator fault.

The front of the garage now sports a fence - part of the ongoing update.

We have been working on behalf of Cridfords and Specialist Cars of Malton - warranty work for vehicles that they have sold in the past year. We have found both of them to be easy to work with - they keep their customer in mind which represents great after sales service and they have been a pleasure to deal with.

 

25.10.10

964 city at Braunton - one just completed, collected and now returned to France after a variety of jobs including some common 964 issues - heater control faults. 964 and 993 suffer from corrosion around front windscreen - scuttle panel refurbishment required which is more work than one might expect - see info in the section on 964 - scuttle panel refurb.

Another 964 awaits a new exhaust and heat exchangers and we are looking into FABSPEED exhaust systems which offer a complete stainless flow tested performance system for the 964. A third 964 awaits major service and a look into scuttle panel rust bubbles around the front screen.

Other cars of interest this week... A 996 turbo which is not quite up to par - awaits Ashleys attention. An Aston Martin V8 carburettor model for clutch fault, and MOT test. 915 gearbox rebuild. 997 in for minor faults. And a few other sporting chariots line up for some TLC.

The first really frosty morning - took an age to scrape two cars this morning and the 928gt slithering to work indicated some slippy road conditions too.

Formula 1: Felipe grasps some pride back with a 3rd place... Poor Webber shoots both shotgun barrels into hs feet - will he recover - the mark of a true champion-to-be? Alonso faultless and deserves some attention... Hamilton drove the McLaren puppy to an awesome 2nd place. Two races left and who will find the crown? Sorrow for Rosberg who was taken out unexpectedly - looks like Rosberg will be a top runner in the coming years. F1 only entertains when you support a driver/team - debate ? Porsche in F1, if only (too much to lose?)

Week - 18th October+

The workshop is brimming with Stuttgarts finest shapes at present. 997, 964,993, 928, 911sc and even an early bmw alpina decorate the workshops and look to keep the team busy for a while.

The main workshops sport new roof lights which allow more light through - part of the buidings ongoing facelift. The front will sport a new fence to separate the cars and generally spruce up the high street facade.

Great to see the Aventura 993 C4 leave after a variety of work over the past four weeks, including paint to rear bumper, AC evap & blower, HT leads etc - This car is heading to New Zealand with an emmigrating owner. 993s are rare in the land of Kiwi which assures owners of good resale value - which quite possibly covers inport costs. One of the best 993s we have seen for a long time - bon voyage.

FOR SALE: One? ?c?u?s?t?o??m??e?r?s? car?  ?i?s??? for sale:  1x Boxster S x-plate with 42k miles - excellent condition. Here's a car we are happy to put our name to if we sell on behalf of the owners. Please enquire fo more info.

Week 11/10/10 

The workshops are busy with quite a few Porsche projects featuring repair and replacement - such as 993 exhaust heatshields, 993 crank oil seal replacement, 928 brake hose replacement, 928 MOT repair to route out electrical gremlins, 997 with some minor faults, 964 clutch slave cylinder replacement with modified slave for 30% less effort. It is good to see Porsches arriving for work and completed cars leaving; the red 911 3.2 cabriolet part-restoration, Cayenne Turbo, Boxster S and 928 s4. As Porsche enthusiasts it is great to see such a variety of models passing through the doors and we remind ourselves how lucky we are to see such a great many models - mostly in very good condition with a good history of maintenance that makes ongoing work easier for the technicians.

The team are in good spirits with work ticking along nicely although temperatures are starting to drop in the workshop  ...Ashley promises everyone thermal undies this year, but new space heaters are preferred by the team! Chris reports new inquiries and bookings and has updated the printed menu-price servicing sheets for each Porsche model - please pop in if you are passing; for a chat, to pick up a printed price list, and/or have a look in the workshops at current projects, or email Chris to receive the prices for your model: info@brauntonengineering.co.uk

Formula 1 - Jap GP - great live viewing ...for the insomniacs amongst us? Alonso moves closer whilst Vettel returned to form - great to see but a shame Massa duffed up in quali and then rushed the dash to the first bend ! Nooo ! Is it me or is the standard of driving in Formula one decreasing with the increase of techology ...the drivers seem to make silly errors (that even Mrs Miggins and her tabby cat in the Micra would not) and have less respect for each other - traits that weren't present ten years ago?

Week 04/10/10

993s, Cayenne, 911s, 928s fill the workshops at present with a variety of work required from MOT repairs, tyres, servicing and some TLC to bring back to top condition (993 rear bumper support tubes and exhaust heat shields tend to be a fairly common request). Cayenne prop shaft issues, 2x 911s with gearbox issues (915 boxes). Some website articles are being prepared with photos - coming to a website near you soon.

Sad to hear Tony Curtis passed on - Does this make the Persuaders a cult tv programme now ...is the question the team are mulling over !

Looking forward to the Jap GP next weekend... Will Alonso put red first again?

Week 20.09.10

993 City at Braunton this week ! We have some fine fine 993s in this week which are always a joy to work on - Chris considers chopping the 928gt in and straying back to the other side of Porsche motoring - engine in the boot conundrum.

The 993 is much loved by the team - one of our favourite recommendations is the fitting of the uprated clutch slave cylinder by MPL tuning of Germany - reduces clutch effort by 30% - watch out for a forthcoming article as we follow the fitting of the clutch cylinder to one of this weeks 993s.

The main workshop is in the process of having the roof windows replaced (out of hours) - part of an ongoing face-lift to the building.

The team are in good spirits and are off on the weekly mountain bike team event tonight.

Work progresses with the restoration project (black 911 SC) and the opportunity to buy and restore an Alvis which is complete but requiring major restoration. Regular servicing work on 996, Boxsters and 997s throughout the week. Part restoration on the 3.2 cab has been completed - its a great feeling to bring a corroded car back to life with new parts - 100% job satisfaction for Dave after a few months of battling dreaded rust.

If you are passing by, please do drop in for a chat.

Week of 13 Sept ...rain again ? No even better, wind and rain, the team flirts with the idea of a sunny foreign holiday

Ashley continues to develop the 'noise' from his 964 exhaust - Chris begins to tire of 'who owns the loudest exhaust competition' and favours armchair motorsport, slippers and a smoking jacket - possible due to the weather or the fact that Ashley has a great sound coming from the 964 'bagpipe'.

What a superb Italian Grand Prix!

Awesome to see Ferrari back at the top of the pile. Chris' long term support of Felipe Massa seems worthwhile as the little Brazilian continues back to form for a 3rd place, despite last years accident and becoming a father - which Chris thinks has possibly rounded off Felipe's edge - reminding us how Massa showed Kimi Raikkonen how to win the other year. Alonso is super confident and has the talent too but can he control the Spanish Bull that lurketh? Button's drive was exceptional, Hamilton's unlucky.

This week sees Posches Boxsters, 997, 911, 964 and 928 in the workshop for various servicing and minor repairs. Ashley is building a Boxster engine for Babbacombe Garage in South Devon and this is going smoothly with more intermediate shaft bearing and thin oil from birth queries being raised this week... Watch this space for a forthcoming article on IMS - intermediate shaft, and what an owner can do to look after their car to protect from the dreaded IMS Failure. Visit U.S. website LN Engineering for some info on IMS.

997 with corroded exhaust flange bolts here this week? Surely not this old 996/Boxster issue all over again? Brauton Engineering cure this by cutting the old bolts/fasteners off and placing STAINLESS STEEL bolts and nuts on the flanges... Why oh why do Porsche not do this from new or when they replace corroded fasteners at OPC... Braunton recommend stainless fasteners to erase this issue from your exhaust for good.

Ashley is looking to sell his 1990 928 S4 Auto - metallic blue with linen leather - its one of the best in the UK... 964 fever has replaced 928 love ...for now.

Some website articles are being developed for updates to the website in the coming weeks.

Mon 6th September ...rainy monday

Work progresses with the long term projects; restoration of 911 sc silver hoop targa and with the 964 back-date projects.

The 911 cab part restoration is nearing completion.

A 350z has entered the workshop for repairs to wheel hub and clutch mech - great to see an alternative take on the powerful sports coupe mould - impressive. Takes Chris back to his Datsun 240z Samuri days - a long long time ago (where is Spike Anderson?)

The swarm of silver Boxsters have left the hive and returned to their respective owners.

A few regular customers return to the fold for routine jobs/ menu servicing.

The team are finalising the plans for the le Mans 2011 trip and look to book something soon.

 

Tues 31/08/10

This week sees an assortment of Porsche arriving for servicing and repair with Two Boxster S' for servicing/ repair, one Cayman S  for servicing, plus ongoing projects nearing completion (3.2 cabriolet), 964 ready for collection, and return of some loyal customers and new found friends with weekly inquiries by potential new customers.

The sun is shining in North Devon which is most welcome since the last few weeks has been stinkers!

The team are in good spirits and work is progressing at a good rate.

23/08/10

Rain rain go away... the damp continues in North Devon.

This week sees the 3.2 cabriolet being refitted having returned from the bodyshop.

The Boxster 2.5 engine has been stripped down and the heads are ready for machining.

The 928gt has developed a coolant leak - from a hose of the expansion tank - deep sigh from Chris - its been a few years with the gt requiring nothing but routine servicing and exercising 

964 C4 in this week all the way from Cardiff

Some routine service work due in

The team are enthusiastic about a mountain biking evening this week - the Devon hills beckon

 

9/08/10

In true The Persuaders, Roger Moore & Tony Curtis style - driving their cars through the title credits to the meeting, (you know, the start of the program?) Ashley and Chris arrived at the garage in a synchronised manner, and parked up. Ashley stepped out of the 911 wearing flares and a flower power, large lapel shirt, and Chris fell out of the bucket seat of the 928 wearing smart brown cords and a beige leather drivers coat, and so, the week started with some comical moments.

(Just kidding about the clothing part)

The Testarossa remains with some tuning tasks and a little bit of rust proofing

The 964 C2 is being examined for a battery parasite to the heater control unit

The 2.5 boxster has its engine removed ready for stripping and then rebuild - photos to follow

The 3.2 cabriolet is in the bodyshop being rubbed down for spraying

a 944 is due in - coming all the way from Germany !

Chris' 928 gt will need a clutch, some suspension work and the interior finishing before next years planned team trip to Le Mans -Dave's 944 is going to need some tlc to fit MOt standard - Ashley's 911 is ready to go - Alan's XJR is still living in an oxygen tent, Mike's BMW Alpina is due into the workshop this winter for recommissioning ready for the trip, Phil claims the DB9 is not going to Le Mans next year but reckon he will weaken nearer the time - hope so.

2/08/10

This week is sees the Ferrari Testarossa finalised for the customer with some tyre fitted, MOT test and road tests to investigate a fault.

Work on models; 928 S4 with a coolant level sender problem, 997 C2 servicing, bodywork respray to a carrera 3.2, gearbox work to  911 sportomatic, electrical faults to a 964 C2.

Some interesting info on a potential Ferrari 308 purchase

Some building work to the front of the building (groans)

And hope that the sun returns for a great August

If you are passing by, please pop in for a chat and a guided tour

26/07/10

This week the team are working on Porsches, Cayenne Turbo, 911 3.2, Boxsters x2, 911 SC, 964.

Ashley is encouraging the team to commit to the Le Mans 2011 camping trip convoy and much humour and gentle mickey taking of certain cars is taking place. Chris is adamant about taking a Ferrari despite the fact that the 928gt is a better option and that he lacks the funds and courage to enter into the Ferrari stable…Chris remains Ferrari mad despite the F1 teams recent disgrace at Hockenheim – Massa being a great role model of a stellar talent maligned by circumstance and misfortune.

The idea this week is to free up ramp No.3  for a Boxster engine extraction with the track car being mobile once again.

 19/07/10

This week the team are turning out a couple of 911s which have had the SSI stainless steel hi performance exhaust manifolds & system fitted. This system frees up some power most noticeable to the driver by seemingly quicker, cleaner revving.

EDITORIAL CONTACT:

www.brauntonengineering.co.uk & www.sportscarrepair.co.uk are copyright protected publications. The website is compiled, written & photographed by Chris Clopet with technical input by the Braunton Engineering technical team. Braunton Engineering (sportscarrepair.co.uk) is the trading name of AJB. The website design, navigation and structure remain the responsibility of Gold Coast Media Ltd. Website SEO responsibility is a collaboration between Chris Clopet and Gold Coast Media Ltd.

The information at the date of publishing has been approved by the technical team, however if any piece of information is incorrectly listed or published out of context, or a mistake has been made, please contact the editor, Chris Clopet. The information & photographs published on this website remains the copyright of Chris Clopet, Braunton Engineering as the sole author 2010.

Editorial Contact: Chris Clopet, Business Manager, Braunton Engineering Tel 01271 814144 Email: info@brauntonengineering.co.uk