NoVector

My wife’s job is taking us to Germany in a couple months and I’m pretty sure I’ll ship the GTS (and sell the 84). I can’t see putting the GTS in storage for 3-4 years and I think in the end, the cost to ship it would be less than storage(?)

I’d appreciate any advice on an international shipper if anyone has experience. And also, I installed a high-flow exhaust (with cats, etc.) from Roger a couple months ago. It’s not loud; but, it’s not exactly quiet either. Do you think that would be a problem?

Thanks, errr Danke

SeanR

Talk to Schocki, member here, he's done exactly what you are doing. If I recall, he's German AirF so he'd know best.

NoVector

Found him--excellent, thank you! / Bruce

Nicole

If you need to register the car in Germany, you have to comply with the local laws. You basically import the car, pay your 10% duty and 19% VAT on its value, and start preparing it for the vehicle inspection.

Here are a few things you'll have to do:

1. Change the head lights to H4 with aiming/height adjustment capability from the interior
2. Unless the laws have changed, you'll have to disable your side marker lights
3. Your tires need to have the proper speed rating for the top speed of your car, and an approved size. If you have anything different from factory standard, you'll have to show proof ("ABE" = Allgemeine Betriebserlaubnis) for this particular wheel/tire combination from the wheel manufacturer.
4. Your exhaust must be factory standard, with the proper stamping, or an upgrade that has the proper approvals. Contact landsharks.de for an upgrade that will drop you into a lower emissions class, add 30hp, and save you significant vehicle registration fees. No home or custom made, or loud exhausts allowed - you won't pass inspection. Emissions are retested annually.
5. Make sure everything is in working order and tight. Worn out shocks, tie rods or other suspension or brake parts; even a crack in the windshield are not acceptable.

I'm not sure, if suspension upgrades require documentation or approval. Ask Schocki - he should know.

If you make any illegal changes after inspection and get caught, your insurance can recover their payout in a liability claim, and won't cover your own collision claim. Your car could be impounded as evidence after a traffic stop.

Also, if you have not converted your AC to R-134a, you'll have to do so next time it needs service. I don't think you can get an R-12 system serviced in Germany anymore (at least, that's what I've been told).

If you speak German at least a bit, consider joining pff.de and ask questions there. A few of the members there have US model 928s.

Best of luck!

NoVector

Thanks! So, it sounds like the high flow exhaust will have to come off and the stock will go back on.... damn! That's okay I guess, I've been triping over it in the garage for the past 4 months anyway. It's a 93 so it has R-134.

I'm not sure what you mean about the hadlight adjustment from the interior though(?) I've never heard of all the military moving there having to have that capability on their imported car.

ALKada

Wow, get to drive the GTS on the Autobahnen. I'm envious. Good luck and safe travels.

racer

Remember fuel costs a LOT more so be prepared for that.

ALKada

Bruce, does this mean that you need to sell the exhaust?

mickster

I think you just need to leave it at my house until you return

NoVector

Thanks - I'm looking forward to taking it down to the Autostrada to Italy as well. Unfortunately, I don't think I'll be selling the exhaust, but someone will probably get a great deal on the 84.

77tony

Bruce, Before going to Germany, RU coming down to the Spring Fling in Rockport, Mar 25-27th? T

jleidel

Make sure you get all your tags in Germany before taking it across country lines. [especially Switzerland].

If you're moving in and around Frankfurt, make sure you try the Apfelwein.

NoVector

You bet--and looking forward to it! Thanks for puting it together. That and the Mile all in the same weekend is Nirvana! / Bruce

NoVector

We're moving to Kaiserslautern area (Ramstein Air Base). I think they have beer there(?)

cold_beer839

I'd just wrap up the stock exhaust and ship it with the car, if they make you put on, then put it on, if they don't then you'll have that extra HP and exhaust noise for your driving pleasure.