Der Sportwagen

March / April 2016 25 caring for their needs, then shifting to other own- ers. During that first year, the car was to have the transmission receive new synchronizers, and any other worn parts. The engine was dismantled to receive new oversize cylinders bringing the specs to 1800 cc, 912 heads had the ports and chambers polished, and combustion chambers equalized, Super 90 camshaft and Solex 40 PII- 4 carbs. Three pounds were machined from the flywheel, adding to the tremendous acceleration. Also, a transistor electronic ignition coil was used. The engine crankcase halves went to Cali- fornia for machining to allow Corvair cylinders and new racing pistons. The car was stripped of carpet, receiving new pieces, and a new top was made locally using patterns from the old one. The engine case was polished along with the aluminum brake housings and other such items. Any rubber part not like new in appearance was replaced, along with any removable bumper part, light lens, and muffler. The 1600cc rear trim was made to read 1800cc and a rare fender mounted streamlined rear view mirror was added later. Porsche Signal Red became the new color. I hand polished the several coats of lacquer while the running gear was removed. After several months in my garage, the re-assembly was completed and the maiden drive was very exciting. The car was everything it deserved and drew staring eyes and gaping mouths sometimes. It became my pleasure to enter in a few Concours shows, including some by our local PCA and SCCA. I'd become a Charter member when several owners met at Bunker to form the K.C.Region P. C. A. Speedy trophied wherever it was entered. It was also somewhat of a girl magnet. In 1969, Art Bunker finally received the first Kansas City Porsche Franchise which was sep- arated from the VW business and location. He chose to offer the general manager job to John Ross, who in turn came to me and offered me a job as the first salesman for the Overland Park store being built at the time. I didn't turn him

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