So.......... still doing my due diligence on the painting project. Visiting a second recommended shop as soon as the sun shows its face this week.

Related questions:
I like the flag side view mirrors and don't think I'd ever change them out. Would 993 door handles look out of place with the flags?
Is there a source where I could buy all of the gaskets and stuff as a single package or do I have to buy a la carte?
The flat black trim around the windows/doors; how is this refinished? Mine has peeled some in a spot and overall could be refreshed. Paint shop for this too?

Thanks again for the feedback.

After doing my research, talking with references and setting an appointment to drop the car off in March to be painted (and not have the car for 3 to 4 months), I cancelled.

Feel like I'm too rushed trying to prepare for things. Wasn't enjoying the process. Going to try again next winter.

I know you wanted to paint it, but I think it looked stunning the way it is... let's put in another road trip this summer/fall when I get back in town. Believe me, it's nice to not have to worry about your paint and just drive.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/JA...=w1285-h853-no
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/0I...=w1469-h854-no

Has anyone wrapped the whole car in modern clear film after a re-paint and curing period? Yes, expensive on top of an already expensive paint process, but you'll ever worry about chips again.

You bet!
I have to admit...... the recent track time with all the sand and other debris flying up from the cars ahead of me made me happy I didn't do that with a fresh paint job.

AGREE. I am a fan of "good enough"
Too nice, I don't want to drive it.
Just needs to look decent. And, I'm OK w/ patina.
But, to spend 20k+ on paint, and beat it to hell would just irritate me.
Besides, these are old cars. I'll just touch up when needed.

On the track, almost each time I'd swing wide to avoid all of the debris from cars in front of me, they'd think I was going to pass........ so I would oblige.


Which made me sort of chortle to myself.

My buddy (see pic below) just had much of his car repainted and wrapped. After spending $$$$ it looks fantastic and he road trips all year around with it. Totally makes sense and I should probably do it, but like Spyerx mentioned, I'm okay with patina, to an extent. I guess it's a personality thing, and my Porsche related fun money is limited. I'd rather spend $3,000 on suspension, tires, and mechanical updates/upgraded. Unlimited budget, sure wrap it up. Otherwise I'm going for mechanical bits.


Now that your painting plans are mothballed a bit, spend that money to redo/upgrade your shifting bits. Remember your comments after our car switch. New forward rod, short shift, golden rod and (D55) trans mount insert is the ticket. Plus you need new motor mounts. Love making these cars tighter, they are so solid and those bits really reward you constantly and enhance the driving experience way beyond the looks.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qc...=w1284-h815-no

She's in the shop right now having motor mounts and a small list of other things done.