Sunday, March 24, 2013

Off Topic: Autoblog and I (separately) visit the Arctic

I recently returned from hunting the Northern Lights (aurora borealis) with my family.  The very night we returned, Autoblog posted this article and video on their trip to the Arctic.  Our paths exactly overlapped on for the Fairbanks to Coldfoot, AK portion of their trip.  Fortunately, it was a little warmer when we visited.

It was a little strange seeing photos of very, very remote places you were standing published.  I can even tell you the exact spot the photographer shot from when taking the northern lights photo (kudos to him for getting into that position!).

Enjoy!



Saturday, March 23, 2013

Porsche Photoshoot, March 2013: Ella Makes a Friend

Ella made a friend for this photoshoot.




Porsche 993 photoshoot



Whereas the February shoot turned out more good photos than I expected, I struggled with this one.  The light was a bit harsh, I was using a wide angle lens for the first time and the disparity in the cars' colors all contributed.  Fortunately, I happened across a professional photographer and he offered some pointers.  Hopefully the next shoot will be better!


Wednesday, March 13, 2013

Bug Infestation!

I arrived home tonight to find my driveway infested with green beetles!  I guess I should be kinder to Porsche family relatives ;-).



Monday, March 11, 2013

New Mats!

My parents got me two new floor mats custom fit for my 993 -- a much needed replacement!  Thank you :-).  I love the red "Porsche" logo.  Here is a side-by-side comparison of new and old (the photo is a very good representation of the real appearance).



I was initially concerned about the shape difference, but Lloyd's included a note saying the shape had purposely been improved.  They fit great, and I was very happy that Lloyds included the plastic nut for attaching the floor mats to post on the floor.

Sunday, March 10, 2013

A Commitment

"I will not buy any more parts for Ella until I finish installing the parts I already have."  -Me

[Update July 9, 2013:  The projects are all done.  I can start shopping again! :-)]

My enthusiasm for buying (or receiving as a birthday gift :-)) parts for Porsche projects has outpaced my ability to actually get the projects done.  It has gotten a little out of hand, so I decided to use this "public" commitment as a motivational tool.

Here are the outstanding projects:
  1. [Done] Door handle gasket replacement.  Parts 99353763100 and 99353762100.
  2. Front lighting upgrade
  3. [Done] LED 3rd brake light replacement.  Disassembly here and LED info here.
  4. [Done] Install (used) TechArt strut tower brace.

Thursday, March 7, 2013

Rear Control Arm Rubber Boot/Gasket Repair


Update 21-Apr-2014:  After more than a year and 2500 miles, the repairs looks to holding up well.  I can't tell for sure without removing the control arm, but installed there are no visible openings in the boot.

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While installing the H&R springs, we tore the rubber boot on the rear lower control arm (Part number 99333104301).  This was easy to do as the rubber was clearly worn around its typical crease position.

This ball joint is press-fit into the control arm with the rubber boot as an integrated part of the assembly.  Despite significant effort, I couldn't find anyone who could replace it, or any boots that even came close to having the same design.  (If anyone does know of either, leave it in the comments!).  The other option is to replace the entire assembly, but that is over $200 to fix a worn boot!

After a bit of searching on the web, I found two different suggestions for dealing with this issue: 1. use silicone sealant to repair the gap or 2. make a patch with a bike tire tube.

My plan is to try the silicone sealant first, and fall back on the bike tire tube if necessary.

Here are the steps I followed.
1.  Rough-up the area to be patched with some fine-grit sandpaper (I used 1000 grit).
2.  Clean the area.  I used an alcohol swab.  I doubt this is the best cleaner, but figured it was good enough.
3.  Apply the silicon sealant.

4.  Smooth out the silicon sealant.  One useful tip I read online is to wet your finger with water.  I was amazed at how well this actually worked.

Here is a look at the finished product.  I will keep an eye on its durability and post back how well it held up.



Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Photoshoot: Feb. 2013

During the last week of Feb, we had a little impromptu photo shoot.  I took advantage of some terrific evening light and the hill behind our house, and had a little fun with my camera.

Leave a vote for your favorite and/or any constructive criticism in the comments.


Photo #1

Photo #2

Photo #3

Photo #4

Photo #5