Shane Balkowitsch's

1965 Porsche 356C Coupe

Outlaw Restoration Project

Before

As purchased on July 4th, 2009 in Connecticut.

After

As completed on January 18th, 2011.

 

The Project:
Ever since I can remember it has always been a small childhood dream of mine to own a Porsche.  Was it the 911 cars flying by me on Pacific Coast Highway years ago in Southern California that first peaked my interest, I am not sure?  All I know is that I always thought my first Porsche would be the 911 model.  After doing some research into the history of the Porsche brand, it became evident to me that the father of the 911, the 356 was definitely for me.  Anyone can go purchase a modern Porsche, but a classic 356 is another story.  The history, legacy and racing heritage surrounding these early vehicles is inspiring.

Dr. Porsche and Ferry Porsche in 1948 with the first 356, the infamous K45-286.

CLICK HERE to view a superb video taken at the Porsche Museum about K45-286.

CLICK HERE to see a wonderful website devoted to the life of Ferry Porsche (1909-1998).

CLICK HERE to view a very historic perspective about the first Porsche.

Once I decided on the model, I did some further research and had to decide on what year to purchase.  In 1948, Ferry Porsche and his father Dr. Ferdinand Porsche put together the first 356 car and it was numbered K45-286 (above) on the license plate.  This was officially the model 356/1 and there was only one of them made.  The aluminum roadster made its maiden voyage on June 8th, 1948.  The car currently takes its rightful place in the new Porsche Museum in Stuttgart Germany.  The 356 was the only production car that Porsche built for the next 17 years.  1965 was the last year for the 356 and then the cars turned into what we know as the 911 of today.  At this point I contacted a respected builder by the name of Bill Hamilton at Hamilton Classics in Texas.  He did his first 356 restoration in 1970.  He agreed that he would assist me in finding "the car for you".  After further discussions I decided to build an Outlaw type car.  No bumpers and a classic race theme really excited me.  Not that the concourse stock cars  are not gorgeous vehicles and are highly prized, but an Outlaw can be everything that I want it to be.  Bill assured me that there are proper ways of doing an Outlaw and that he could steer the project in the right direction.  After looking at the early "A" and "B" cars, the later model "C" cars seemed to make sense because they embodied all of the technological improvements from the past years of development.  It should be noted that Bill spent much time with me during this brainstorming process.  Remember I was only a potential customer to him, I did not even own a Porsche at the time.  To me this speaks volumes about his character and his passion for these cars. 

So Bill and I went on an hunt to find a good solid "C" car.  I wanted a racing feel so the cabriolet models were out for me.  We checked around for a couple of weeks but many of the cars we found were in pretty rough shape and we did not want any excessive rust, which these vintage cars have plenty of.  We found a gentleman in Connecticut  by the name of Peter Burns who purchased a 1965 coupe 23 years ago and was moving and needed to sell it.  He and his son took the car completely apart, and when I mean completely, everything was stripped off the car as you can see from the photographs below.  He intended to restore the car but the restoration never occurred and the car sat completely disassembled and in pieces for over two decades.  I made him an offer and he accepted.  Bill arranged for covered transportation from Connecticut to his facility in Texas.  This is where the Photographic Timeline below begins.

Only 1101 of the '65 coupes were produced which was a very small number compared to earlier production years.  Porsche was revving up for the introduction of the 911 and that was a major reason for the lower production numbers in 1965.  The last Karmann VIN for the last 356 car was 222580, that puts my car 518 cars away from the end of production.  My car represents the last of a very important era in automobile history.  I also want to share that I have never sat in let alone driven a Porsche 356 before.  My first ride will be with Bill in my own fully restored Outlaw at the end of the build process sometime in 2010.

Thanks for your interest in my Outlaw,
Shane Balkowitsch
shane@balkowitsch.com
(701)223-9936 Phone

Goal for the Build:
My goal is to take an original Porsche 356 and have it restored into a beautiful, unique and reliable Outlaw for everyday driving.  Anything worth doing is worth doing right.  Obviously I wish to use as many original parts as possible but if a part does not function properly or is aesthetically flawed and cannot be restored I would rather replace it with new mint part.  The end result is very important but equally important is the journey getting there.  The quotes below by Ferry Porsche will be the cornerstones for this build. 

Quotes from Ferry Porsche:
Once, apparently, when shown a gleaming series of restored 911s, Ferry Porsche remarked that it made him quite sad. "Our cars are meant to be driven," he said, "not polished."  His other famous quote is "I couldn't find the sports car of my dreams so I built it myself." 

Original Porsche Specifications from Certificate of Authenticity:
Year: 1965
Vehicle Identification Number: 222063
Model: 356C / 1600 SC Karmann Coupe
Production Completion Date: February 19th, 1965
Number of 356C Coupes Produced in 1965:  Only 1101
Number of 356C Coupes with SC Engines in 1965: Less than 500 (very small number for worldwide distribution)
Transmission Number / Type: 85879 (741/2C)
Original Paint Color / Code: Ruby Red / 6402
Interior Material Color / Type: Black Leatherette / B
Optional Equipment: Ventilated Chrome Wheels with Phoenix Tires (165/15)
Suggested Retail Price in 1965: $4,685.00
Previously Registered to: Richard Rittiger, S. Pasadena, California, April 1983
Last Registered to: Tracey Cameron, New Haven, Connecticut, May 1985
Sold to Peter Burns by: Pray Porsche, Greenwich, Connecticut, 1986
Shane Purchased from: Peter Burns, Wilton, Connecticut, July 4, 2009

Performance Upgrades to Stock Motor (Original 356 Case & Heads):
Scat racing crankshaft – stock stroke
Carrillo connecting rods
1883cc Nickies cylinders with JE lightweight pistons
LN Engineering performer camshaft
LN Engineering – CNC designed heads
Aluminum oil cooler
Chromoly pushrods
Petronix ignitor
Weber 40IDF carbs
Competition Engineering machine work
Precision Matters full flow oil filter
Sebring Stainless Ceramic Coated Exhaust

Performance Upgrades to Brakes, Suspension, Wheels and Tires:
Stock disc brakes with ceramic pads
Koni Classic adjustable shocks
Koni steering damper
Weltmeister 22mm front sway bar
Minilite 5.5" allow wheels
Toyo RA1 205/50R15 Z tires
The suspension was lowered 1.5 inches front to back

Restorer / Builder:
Bill Hamilton
Hamilton Classics
P.O. Box 10
Martindale, TX 78655
(512)694-8044 Phone
www.hamiltonclassics.com

Photographic Timeline of the Restoration Process

Initial interior photograph from seller in Connecticut, complete with shag carpeting.  As purchased.

7/4/2009

Initial engine photograph from seller in Connecticut.  As purchased.

7/4/2009

Trucking company delivering the 356 to Hamilton Classics in Martindale, Texas.

7/14/2009

Cars new home for the year long build process.

7/14/2009

All parts stored inside vehicle in numerous boxes. 

7/14/2009

Who knows what those boxes contain, I am sure Bill will make sense of it all.

7/14/2009

Some rust to contend with, where do we start?

7/14/2009

Is that the correct place for the engine?

7/14/2009

In the shop for the first time, this is where the magic will be performed.

10/2/2009 

The next step is to remove everything from the car for media blasting.

10/2/2009 

The rotisserie being put to good use from early on in the build process.

10/5/2009 

 

There is no better way to get to the bottom of rust issues.

10/5/2009  

 

The car is awaiting its turn at the media blasters.  45 years of history to remove.

10/15/2009

 

Two outlaws together, Bill Hamilton and my coupe.

10/15/2009

 

The stock tow hook and 45 years of undercarriage crud before blasting.

10/15/2009

 

Body post media blasting and rust encapsulation.

10/30/2009

 

Passenger door post media blasting, looks pretty good.

10/30/2009

 

Holes from previous dent removal will all be welded shut.

10/30/2009

 

Wheel wells in need of some sheet metal replacement.

10/30/2009

 

Bill is rather happy with the little rust that was revealed.

10/30/2009

 

Previously replaced floor panels are square and in good condition.

10/30/2009

Nose needs some work, holes to weld shut, it has a history.

10/30/2009

 

Passenger side front panel, some rust to contend with.

10/30/2009 

 

The hind end of this vehicle is in exceptional condition.

10/30/2009 

 

Trunk lid post media blasting.

10/30/2009

 

Hood in great condition.

10/30/2009

 

Media blasting and initial undercoating done to body.

11/4/2009

 

Let there be light.

11/4/2009

 

First undercoating prior to paint.  Another will follow later.

11/4/2009

 

Bodywork is starting to be completed prior to primer. 

11/13/2009

 

Exhaust holes closed up, very clean look from the back.

11/13/2009

 

A true outlaw has no bumpers, lighter and more streamlined.

11/13/2009

 

All prior holes from previous body work will be welded and closed up.

11/17/2009

 

We are installing a functional Rennline race tow hook, Bill mocking it up.

11/17/2009

 

I cannot think of any other car that has these wonderful lines from the back.

12/10/2009

 

The last time the car will be upside down, taken off the rack.

12/10/2009

 

Checking doors and lids for fit and gaps.   I am going to paint this car the same color silver as the Historic K45-286 car in the Porsche Museum.  The curator at the Porsche Museum has provided us with all of the paint codes.

12/10/2009

 

Bill is on schedule to have the car painted after the New Year.  Historic Porsche silver and large white racing stripe down the center of the car.

12/10/2009

 

Good look at the underside of the car.

12/10/2009

 

Speedster seats and frames being mocked up before paint.

12/21/2009 

 

These fiberglass seats function perfectly and are lightweight and very strong.  They will eventually be upholstered in black leather.

12/21/2009

 

Mocking-up wide white stripe and Spyder license plate light.  Ready for paint in a week or so.  Decided on 912 Grand Prix white for the stripe. 

1/22/2010 

 

Wide Porsche white racing strip will run the length of the vehicle.  Very excited to see the K45-286 Silver on paint samples when they arrive.  Very historic color.

1/22/2010 

 

Mick is the body man in the backdrop, he is a little camera shy.  He is doing an excellent job as you can see.

1/22/2010 

 

The wide race stripe and the Spyder license plate light will be in the same Porsche white color.

1/22/2010

 

I can think of no other vintage car that has these lines and curves from the back.  

1/22/2010

 

We affixed a blank license plate to the body to give us a better idea as to the spacing of the plate and light.  The Porsche script will be in chrome when finalized.

1/22/2010

 

Pretty happy with this placement but nothing will be final until the car is back from paint.

1/22/2010

 

Interior dash will have the ash tray housing removed, much cleaner look and the windshield wiper knob will be placed to the right of the clock.  "Less is More".

1/22/2010

 

Car sitting for its turn at the painters, getting ready to have K45-286 Silver applied.

2/17/2010 

 

Awaiting its day to shine. 

2/17/2010 

 

Bodywork looks immaculate, told Bill that I would drive it around in primer if I had to. 

2/17/2010 

 

Final coat of primer before paint.  

3/16/2010

 

 

Restoring the mechanical areas of the car is beginning.  Gearbox.

3/16/2010

 

 

Bill removed the doors for the painter, get the spray nozzle ready.

3/16/2010 

 

First pictures of the motor as purchased, motor arrived sitting in the passengers seat.   

3/16/2010 

   

Two decades of dust from hibernation.  The engine is going to get some well deserved performance upgrades.

3/16/2010

 

   

First coats of paint in the paint booth, front hood.  Historic K45-286 Porsche Silver as per the color codes from curator at the Porsche Museum.

3/23/2010 

   

Dash is painted a 912 Grand Prix Porsche White to match the wide race stripe on the exterior.

3/23/2010 

   

Notice the ash tray has been removed under the dash, much simpler look.  Less is more.

3/23/2010 

   

All panels being painted inside and out.

3/23/2010

 

   

Silver without clear coat, need to tape the race stripe.

4/1/2010 

   

Paint complete, needs to set over the weekend and then buff. 

4/2/2010 

   

Hood with race stripe.

4/2/2010 

   

Rear end looks very clean with no bumper holes. 

4/2/2010

 

   

Get me out of this paint booth!  The Porsche silver and white race stripe contrast well.

4/2/2010

 

   

Natural light for the first time on the new paint.  

4/5/2010 

   

Getting ready to head back to Bill's shop. 

4/5/2010 

   

Finish looks immaculate.

4/5/2010

 

   

Car has not been on the road for over 2 decades and when it returns to the road it will be better than new.  

4/5/2010

 

   

Light of day for the first time.

4/6/2010 

   

Car is back with Bill at his shop.

4/6/2010 

   

Let assembly begin. 

4/6/2010

 

   

One last layer of undercoating being applied prior to assembly.   

4/12/2010 

   

Koni shocks.   

4/21/2010  

   

Breaks being rebuilt also.   

4/21/2010 

   

Looks pretty clean.   

4/21/2010

 

   

Everything restored and painted.   

4/21/2010

 

   

New Weltmeister 19mm performance anti-sway bar for the front.   

4/21/2010

 

   

Bill mocking-up the headlight rock guards.  Vintage race look.   

4/23/2010

 

   

Front dash and floor panel prior to sound proofing.  

4/23/2010

 

   

Floor boards look nice and clean and aligned.

4/23/2010

 

   

Rear seat ready for new leather interior.

4/23/2010

 

   

Dynamat Xtreme installed throughout.

4/28/2010 

   

Car is going to be much quieter from road noise and will take on a different quality of sound.

4/28/2010

 

   

Bill teasing me a bit by putting a wheel with no tire on the car for me to see what is to come.  Looks great!

5/14/2010 

   

We are upgrading the car from 6v to more modern 12v electrical system.

5/14/2010 

   

New wiring harness installed and all wires pulled through car. 

5/14/2010 

   

Gas tank painted and installed, white matches Grand Prix race stripe.   

5/18/2010 

 

   

Stock sound deadening material installed in trunk.   

5/18/2010

 

   

Fuse box, all new wiring throughout.   

5/18/2010

 

   

Stock engine compartment sound deadening panels.   

5/19/2010 

   

We had some extra Dynamat so Bill applied that behind the stock panels.  

5/19/2010

 

   

Gauges installed after their visit to N. Hollywood Speedometer, restored exactly as they were in February of 1965, odometer set back to 00000.  Note the higher 6200 RPM redline tachometer, this performance motor will need it.   

5/24/2010 

   

Bill sent me the original Porsche Crest from the front hood handle and the door VIN plate for the body, the first time I got to touch my car, they may look in bad condition but are prized possessions for sure.     

5/27/2010  

   

Tail lights and backup light installed.

6/7/2010 

   

First look at the GT Mirror on the front fender, mocked up old steering wheel to give me perspective. 

6/8/2010

 

   

Mocking-up the Porsche Spyder light housing, same as on James Dean's Spyder.

6/8/2010

 

   

Another angle on the GT Mirror, we wanted it to function as well as look sleek. 

6/8/2010

 

   

Yet another angle.  Positioning is the key to make the mirror functional. 

6/8/2010

 

   

Very pleased with the decision to set the GT mirror off in the white contrasting color from the body.

6/8/2010

 

   

Mick was kind enough to put on his welding glasses and give me perspective.  He is about my size 5'8" or so.  Thanks for all of your excellent bodywork Mick and your willingness to pose for the team!

6/8/2010

 

   

Disc brake calipers painted in traditional Porsche 911 Red caliper paint.

6/18/2010 

   

Getting ready for the MiniLite wheels and low profile performance tires. 

6/18/2010 

   

Fiberglass Speedster seats with heavy white stitch accents.  We are upgrading the entire car to custom leather instead of the stock vinyl.   

6/23/2010 

 

   

Augustine at Autos International did a great job on the custom interior.  As with the seats years ago, the back is upholstered in matching carpet.   

6/23/2010 

 

   

Rear seats were upholstered similar to  early 911 interiors.     

6/23/2010 

 

   

Bill says the photographs do not do justice to the quality and craftsmanship of the leather interior. 

6/23/2010

 

   

Custom snow white head liner to match the white dash, off white would not do. 

6/30/2010

   

Carpet set being installed. 

6/30/2010

 

   

Rennline race tow hook installed.  It can be screwed in and out as needed.

6/30/2010

 

   

Custom leather interior taking shape. 

6/30/2010

 

   

Dean Jeffries inspired Iron Cross torsion bar covers installed.  Dean fabricated the first pair of these back in 1956 (See bottom of this website for story). 

6/30/2010

 

   

Race stripe, GT mirror and torsion bar covers in same matching 912 Grand Prix white.

6/30/2010

 

   

Bill put the car down on some temporary wheels for the first time today.  Can't wait to see the car on the MiniLites.

7/5/2010 

 

Nickie performance (1883cc/ 90mm) cylinders and JE pistons.  They are things of beauty, finest performance parts available for a 356. 

7/21/2010

 

MiniLite wheels installed for the first time, the style and company goes back to the 60's so they are a period correct wheel. 

7/22/2010

 

 

The wheels allow the Porsche red brake calipers to be seen as well. 

7/22/2010

 

 

Speedster seats installed on the rails for the first time.

7/22/2010

 

 

We have had all of the original chrome redone for the build.  More detailed assembly can now begin.

8/11/2010 

 

Very excited to see the Porsche marquee and the "SC" logo finally affixed to the car.  The "SC" stands for "Super Coupe" and it meant the car was at the top of the heap for performance with her stock 95 HP engine.  We are shooting for 150 HP. She will definatately earn her "SC" designation by the time we are done with our performance upgrades. 

8/11/2010

 

 

Chrome rock guards in place, rechromed hood handle also with new Porsche marquee.  Headlight buckets were painted same white color as the stripe, should look very neat at night with the illumination of the healights. 

8/27/2010

 

 

Chrome double grille finally put back together and installed.  They were not chromed from the factory, but I think it really matches really nice with the chrome around the windows.   

8/27/2010 

 

Aluminum race pedals installed along with leather shifter boot that has heavy white thread accent.   

9/22/2010 

 

The centerpiece of the interior is definitely the period correct Derrington wood steering wheel. 

9/22/2010

 

 

Race inspired period correct Deist seat belts.  We are going to have the raw leather finished in a black.  Historically this type of seat belt was found in World War II bomber planes before they were used in race cars. 

9/22/2010

 

 

We elected to go with another MiniLite wheel upfront for the spare.  Authentic black leather strap gives it the correct look.

9/22/2010

 

 

Porsche Outlaw Eagle shifter from Emory Motorsports.  The Black Eagle was first seen on the German Imperial Coat of Arms and dates back to the year 1200. 

9/22/2010

 

 

Bill put the car out into the light of day for some more photographs.  Notice door handles and trim work is coming along.  Rear end still in the air with no motor in the back.   

10/7/2010

 

 

Another look, love the GT mirror.  

10/7/2010

 

 

Good look at the Carrera type grilles Bill fabricated.  We chose carry the look over to the bottom openings as well.    

10/7/2010

 

 

We had a shoe smith dye the natural leather flaps on the seat belts black.    

10/7/2010

 

 

Optima battery installed, all new wiring harness throughout.  Upgraded from 6v to 12v system.  "Let there be light!:    

12/8/2010

 

 

Illumination also from the back Spyder license plate housing.  This car has not had power for nearly 25 years.      

12/8/2010

 

 

Motor being assembled with only the best performance parts, our quest is going from 95 stock HP to 150 HP.      

12/16/2010 

 

Motor on the test stand, started up on first turn of ignition, Bill called me and I heard the motor turn over for the first time, music to my ears!     

12/20/2010  

 

Motor complete on stand.         

12/27/2010 

 

 

New Weber carburetors with K&N Air filters.      

12/20/2010  

 

Sebring exhaust installed, it sounds very mean.        

6/7/2011

  

 

The Jim Constas handmade Sebring exhaust is ceramically coated and has a removeable silencer when you want to sound really loud!        

6/7/2011 

 

Motor complete and installed.  Looks stock but looks are not always everything.

1/17/2011

 

 

Period correct Coco Mats installed to protect the floors liner. 

1/17/2011

 

 

Car is essentially complete, Bill is test driving it this week.  First time the car has been on the roads in over 25 years.

1/18/2011 

 

I fly to Texas this Friday and see and drive the car for the first time.  Saturday is designated as Track Day for us at www.harrishillroad.com

1/18/2011 

 

Finally got to see the car for the first time, this photograph is 20 yards from Bill's garage where the car was restored.

1/21/2011

 

 

The photographer chose the metal Martindale Fire Department building for the appropriate backdrop. 

1/21/2011

 

 

Very glad we decided to keep the hood handle onthe car, to me it is a very distinct piece and makes the car unique and it screams Porsche 356.  Even the earliest cars had some sort of handle on the hood.    

1/21/2011

 

 

Good look at the Derrington steering wheel and the aluminum race pedals, the not only look wonderful but function perfectly.    

1/21/2011

 

 

Bill gave me this authentic replica key fob for Christmas with a set of my first keys.  Every 356 Porsche sold would have had one of these handed over to the new owner.  Bill had a key in the car when I arrived, but I took my key fob out of my pocket and used it for the special occassion.    

1/21/2011

 

 

I was able to locate an authentic and original radio delete plate for the car and it is in wonderful shape for being nearly 45 years old.      

1/21/2011

 

 

Cool look at the fully restored gauges and horn button.        

1/21/2011

 

 

Kevin from 20bPhotography did a wonderful job doing some artistic pieces as well for the photo shoot.  This driveway is the entrance to Bill's shop and on his property.       

1/21/2011

 

 

The pictures that Bill took over the duration of the build and even these professional photographs really do not do the car justice.   

1/21/2011

 

 

Another shot that seems to put the car on an old gravel frontage road or something, but it is just a few feet from Bill's garage, I think Kevin's use of light is stunning. 

1/21/2011

 

 

This picture was a long time coming, over 18 months the restoration took Bill to complete.  I was so happy to finally meet him and Mick his bodyman.  I learned much about my car and life in general from my good friend that weekend.   

1/21/2011

 

 

The power plant behind the car, we are estimating with the performance modifications we have gone from 95HP to 150HP, the dyno will tell us in a few weeks.   

1/22/2011

 

 

Saturday was Track Day at Harris Hill.  Here we have a Race Edition Ferrari gaining ground on us at corner #2.  A dream come true.    

1/22/2011

 

 

Me driving with my good friend Tom Lamphear that accompanied me on the trip, he actually was able to call out once that day "you have two Ferraris trying to pass you on the left!"  How often does that happen?

1/22/2011

 

 

I guess we had to let the the Ferrari pass at some point?

1/22/2011

 

 

Bill and Mick mourning the fact that my car is heading for North Dakota today. 

6/23/2011 

 

Wait a minute, from another angle, those are not tears those are beers!  It has been a once in a lifetime experience with Hamilton Classics and I have not only learned much about my 356, but I have learned much about friendship and how relationships can be formed and celebrated regardless of how many miles are between the two parties.  We were strangers two years ago and now we are friends.  Thanks Bill and Mick and for all that you have done for me.   

6/23/2011

 

 

My Outlaw loading up for its final journey to North Dakota.  Was nearly 2 years to the day since I first purchased the car.   

6/23/2011  

 

Abby, Me, Greyson and my wife Bonnie, right before the car was unloaded.  Our little Alyvia is not in the picture she is in the house resting.  I am a very lucky guy.     

6/27/2011 

 

Final delivery of my Outlaw to Bismarck.  I will post pictures are we go along enjoying the car for years to come.        

6/27/2011

   

 

Happy Independence Day.  Just raised Old Glory for the day and going for a cruise with my son Greyson.  In fact he is in the back seat ducking down, always has been camera shy. 

7/4/2011

 

 

Received my ND Pioneer plates for the car, never have to pay registration fees again.  The car loves the cool August mornings. 

8/12/2011 

 

A good friend Darren Gibbins did some professional photographs of the car in North Dakota.  Here the car is down on River Road.   

8/20/2011 

 

We wanted to do some pictures at the State Capital grounds.  

8/20/2011 

 

Impromptu photograph of me walking away from the car, probably my favorite photograph of me and my car.   

8/20/2011

 

 

I found an old alley some weeks back behind the historic Patterson Hotel which seemed like a cool spot for a photograph.  Note the prop of a antique race car helmet I found online with same color scheme as the car, it was meant to be.   

8/20/2011

 

 

Finally got a picture of my beautiful wife Bonnie behind the wheel.  Thanks for supporting my dream my love.      

8/20/2011

 

 

Our State Capitol Building use to be the tallest building in the state for decades.  When it was first built it was called "The Skyscraper on the Prairie".  Built in 1934 during the Depression after a fire gutted the original building on Dec. 28th, 1930.      

8/20/2011

 

 

Artist image rendering of my car down by the Missouri River.  

8/20/2011 

 

The Outlaw Garage is finally complete with a road going to the back of our property.    

6/22/2012 

 

Beautiful morning for a drive into work.      

6/22/2012 

 

Nothing like the smell of exhaust from an air cooled boxer motor to wake you up.        

6/22/2012 

 

Found a 1965 VW Bug in town, just love the comparison.  Father and Son standing side by side. Without one, you would not have the other.         

8/26/2012

 

 

Full moon over the Outlaw garage!

9/15/2012

 

 

The car and the bike made it into The Vintagent!

10/1/2013 

 

Proud moment indeed, 6 year restoration journey completed. 

10/1/2013 

 

Light painting with Brock Brocious.

5/3/2014

 

 

Lightspeed.

5/3/2014 

 

Where I like to be.

5/3/2014 

 

Anne-Louise Felstead Original Artwork showing my 356 at Le Mans, Circa 1960's

From her Naughty Car Paintings Series

CLICK HERE for Video of Shane driving the car for the first time at Martindale, Texas on Jan. 21st, 2011

CLICK HERE for Video of Shane leisurely driving the car at Harris Hill Road on Jan. 22nd, 2011

CLICK HERE for Video of Bill briskly driving the car at Harris Hill Road on Jan. 22nd, 2011

CLICK HERE for 20B Photography, Official Photographer for our January 2011 Track Day

CLICK HERE for Hamilton Classics picture archive directory (additional photographs not shown above)

CLICK HERE for read the interview blog on the Porsche Heritage Site

CLICK HERE for read the story of my car on the Porsche Family Tree

CLICK HERE for read the story of my car on The Chicane Blog

CLICK HERE for read the Updated story of my Restoration on The Chicane Blog

CLICK HERE for read the story of my car on the Porsche Perfect Blog

CLICK HERE for read the Updated story of my car on the Porsche Perfect Blog

CLICK HERE for read the story of my car on Old Classic Car Blog

CLICK HERE for see my car in the Member Car Gallery at the 356 Registry

CLICK HERE for see my car on the Porsche Every Day Website

CLICK HERE for see my car on the Porsche Drive + Website

CLICK HERE for see my car on the  Porsche Tuning Magazine Website

CLICK HERE for see my car on Angie's List Classic Car Site

Dedication:
I am very grateful to Bill Hamilton and his team for having the patience to educate me and walk along side me in this restoration process.  Without his expertise and enthusiasm, this project never would have started.  I also need to extend my gratitude to the numerous vendors and suppliers that I have listed below.  This website is dedicated to this build and all of the people that have have helped me along the way.  My uncle Tom Huber has also given me much advice on this build.  His years of knowledge and first hand experience with restoring vintage vehicles has been invaluable.  My good friend Tom Lamphear has also given me his opinion on many issues and his support has been a great help.  Ever since we were kids in high school, he has always been as they say on Top Gear a "Petro Head".  Mr. Lamphear will be accompanying me to Martindale on January 21st, 2011 to see the car for the first time.  Incidentally it was Tom's steady hand that captured the below picture of me and my VW in 1987.  Bill has some track time setup at Harris Hill Road Race Track and it will be a blast.  There is a sense of community amongst the people that live and breath these early Porsche vehicles and I am very proud to be have dealt with everyone involved.  I also hope this website inspires other Porsche enthusiasts to take up the challenge of restoring and saving a part of automobile history.  I welcome any comments or suggestions about our build or any 356 topic.  I am learning more every day about my car and it is rewarding to share this experience with others. 

My first Dr. Porsche engineered car.  Here I am on the last day of High School in 1987 with my VW.

 

Here I am in Martindale Texas at Hamilton Classics on Jan. 21st, 2011 seeing the car for the first time.

 

 

Magazines that have done Articles on my Outlaw

Classic Porsche Magazine

March 2011

356 Registry Magazine

March 2011

Hemmings Sports & Exotic Car Magazine

July 2011

 

 

 

9 Magazine

May/June 2011

 

Aircooled Classics Magazine

September 2011

 

Ramp Magazine

Deutschland

September 2012

 
 

 

Restoration Resources / Vendors for our Build

Race Signs Specialists (Race Car Signage and Numbering)

Classico Wheels (Vintage Porsche Derrington Wood Steering Wheels & Shift Knobs)

 

Ultimate Pedals (Aluminum Racing Pedals)

Stoddard Imports (Porsche 356 Parts)

Jegs Auto (H3R Race Fire Extinguisher)

Pelican Parts (Porsche 356 Parts)

356 Service Germany (Reproduction 356 Tool Kits) Udo Scharf knows his tool kits

Natural Auto Products (Traditional Coco Mats for a 356)

356 Enterprises (Scat Crankshaft, Carrillo Rods and More) Vic Skirmants is a friend to all things 356

Auto's International (Custom Leather Upholstery and Carpet Set)

LN Engineerinig (Nickies Pistons and 1883cc Cylinders)

North Hollywood Speedometer & Clock Company (Complete Restoration Service of 356 Gauges)

Sierra Madre Collection (Porsche 356 Parts)

Piloti Driving Shoes (Shane's Choice for Driving Shoes for Track Day)

MiniLite Wheels (Vintage Racing Wheels)

Fibersteel (Porsche Speedster Seats, GT Mirror and Spyder License Plate Light)

Sebring Ceramic Coated Exhaust (Jim Constas Performance Exhaust - jconstas@comcast.net)

 

Paragon Products (Shocks, Suspension, 356 Parts))

Competition Engineering (45 Years of Boring Porsche Cases)

Karmann Konnection (Dean Jeffries Outlaw Inspired Iron Cross Torsion Bar Covers)

Mainly Custom by Design (Custom Porsche 356 Parts)

356 Devotion (Billet Brake Reservoir, New 356 Parts)

Dynamat (Dynamat Xtreme Professional Sound Deadening Liner)

Rennline Racing (Tow Hooks)

Related Websites:

Official Porsche Website

Jerry Seinfeld in Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee (Porsche 356 Episode) Hilarious!

Porsche 356 Registry (Largest 356 club in the world) Shane's Registry Member #: 31354

Porsche Museum

Wikipedia History of the Porsche 356

Emory Porsche Motorsports (Gary and Rod Emory are Pioneers of the Outlaw 356)

DerWhite's Little Known Facts about 356 Porsches!

Porsche Perfect Website (Thread about Balkowitsch 356 Restoration Project)

The Chicane Blog (The Best Classic Motorsport Blog on  the Planet)

Top Gear Official Website (Most badass car show of all time, Long Live the Stig!)

James Dean Memorial Junction Website (Historical photographs of James and his Porsche cars)

Dean Jeffries Custom Porsche Carrera Website (Many historical photographs)

 

  Aircooled Classics Online VW and Porsche Magazine to Read and Share

CLICK HERE to subscribe to Classic Porsche magazine, a must have for any vintage Porsche fan.

CLICK HERE to view a superb video of a vintage 356 in action, courtesy of Arno Reinbacher.

CLICK HERE to view a Rat Rod 356 in action, courtesy of Stephen Brooks.

CLICK HERE to view a wonderful video of a vintage 356 Outlaw, the way they were, courtesy of Rocky Norling.

CLICK HERE to view a vintage Porsche commercial featuring Dr. Porsche explaining his companies purpose.

CLICK HERE to view a Porsche video - Roots in Racing.

CLICK HERE to view original footage of the Porsche factory producing 356 Cars (Part 1).

CLICK HERE to view original footage of the Porsche factory producing 356 Cars (Part 2).

Historic Porsche Photographs

Dr. Porsche's early attempts at automobile history.

Very early photo opportunity for the 356 model, note the Volkswagen in the backdrop.

Ferry Porsche in 1956 with the 10,000 Porsche leaving the production line.

 

Ferry Porsche in 1959 standing proudly in the factory.

James Dean and Rolf Wueherich the Porsche mechanic who was with him in the car the day of the accident.  This photograph was taken just hours before the accident.

James Dean car accident on Sept. 30, 1955, he was driving his Porsche 550 Spyder.  He was only 24 years old.  His last words to Rolf were "That guy's gotta stop... He'll see us."

 

Hand-crafting the first Porsches in Gmund Austria.  The first bodies were sculpted out of aluminum and formed over a wood dolly.

 

 

Porsche always makes a showing at Le Mans.  Since 1951 a Porsche car has always been present for this historic race.

 

Porsche assembly line in the 60's.

 

The humble saw mill which was home for the Porsche design house in 1944-1945.

 

A 356 amongst a vintage VW clan.

 

Ferry Porsche and some of the earlier models.

 

 

Ferdinand and Ferry with an unknown 1965 Outlaw Coupe in the spring of 1948?  The car in the image has been identified as VIN 222063.  Very rare and historically significant photograph!  

 

Ferry Porsche taking a much needed rest.

 

Ferry Porsche with a
1964 356 and 1989 911.

Who could deny the bloodlines between these two models?

 

Ferry Porsche taking the historic K45-286 for another drive prior to his death in 1998.

 

A photograph that is a testament to the lightweight design of a 356.  Here two German women are carrying the entire chassis from one area of assembly to another, WOW!  They do not make cars or women for that matter like that anymore. 

 

     

Famous 356 Cars

Quotes from anonymous Porsche owners sent to this webpage via e-mail:
"Not everyone is lucky enough to have a Porsche and not everyone is smart enough to understand."

"Life's journey is not to arrive at the heaven's gate safely in a well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, totally worn out, shouting, HOLY SHIT! WHAT A RIDE!"  

Sign hanging in Einstein's Office at Princeton:
"Not everything that counts can be counted, and not everything that can be counted counts."

Dean Jeffries Outlaw graces the front cover of October 1959 Rod & Custom Magazine. 

Dean Jeffries with his 1956 modified Outlaw.  Dean Jeffries was also the painter that put "Little Bastard" on the back of James Dean's 550 Spyder.  He was also the original fabricator of the Iron Cross Torsion Bar covers found on many Outlaw cars even to this day. 

Dean Jeffries being united with his outlaw in March 2009, the car is being fully restored by Jack Walters. Jack originally bought the car in 1971 when he was 19 years old and has owned it ever since.

Jack finished the restoration in March 2011 and here is how the Grandfather of All 356 Outlaw looks today!  Way to go Jack.

  

 

James Dean had a love affair with the Porsche marquee.

Janis Joplin and her 1965 Cabriolet

Psychedelically painted by Robert Crumb.

 

Top Gun 356

1986 film starring Tom Cruise.

Doc Hollywood

1991 film starring Michael J. Fox.

Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!

1965 film starring Tura Santana.

 

 


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Copyright Note: The restoration photographs of the Balkowitsch 356 are owned by Bill Hamilton of Hamilton Classics.  It was his time, energy and camera that took them.  The other photographs provided above are for informational purposes only and they are the property of their respective owners.