Lone Star Magazine - Fall / Winter 2019

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W I N T E R

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M A G A Z I N E

IT’S NOT JUST THE CARS, IT’S THE PEOPLE. O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F L O N E S TA R R E G I O N : P O R S C H E C LU B O F A M E R I C A

[ LO N E STA R M AG AZ I N E ]

[ LO N E STA R M AG AZ I N E ]

PHOTO: CARL FEHRES

THIS IS ART

02 : FROM THE PRESIDENT

12 : PORSCHE & FRIENDS

Springtime News From LSRPCA

LSRPCA Social Dinner at Christie’s Seafood

03 : DIRECTORY

14 : LSRPCA MEMORIAL WEEKEND TOUR

2019 LSRPCA Board and Sponsors

A Scenic Drive to Keipersol Estates

04 : MONEY SHIFT

16 : FAMILY COERCION

Boxer 3.6L Carrera Engine Conversion

Off-Road Racer Adds

08 : WRECKED VALUE

To His Collection

Recovering Beyond Repairs

09 : MY DREAM WORLD

18 : FULFILLING A CHILDHOOD DREAM

Porsche Photoshoot by Ghost Studios

A Pastor Gets His Dream Car

10 : 2019 BOXTOBERFEST

22 : LSRPCA CALENDAR

Panoramic Views That Were Worth It!

Upcoming Events & Tours

01

[ LO N E STA R M AG AZ I N E ]

FROM THE PRESIDENT Family. We all cherish family. We have, of course, our immediate family such as parents, siblings and kids, but we also have families at work, sports teams and hobby organizations. All of these “families” have one thing in common that contribute to our lives: people. The Lone Star Region is also a family, with people and activities to fulfill our lives.

Over time, the dynamics of family change. Sometimes change is good, sometimes not-so-good and sometimes simply different. Kids graduate and move away, and work, hobbies and personal relationships may change. These changes create opportunities for Lone Star Region to complete our social circles.

One of the most exciting parts of being a family is meeting new members

LONE STAR:

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF LSRPCA MEMBERS lsrpca.com Facebook.com/groups/lsrpca Instagram @lsr.pca Publisher/Editor VIK DAY editor@lsrpca.com

and getting to know what makes them special and successful. It is especially invigorating to see new members involved in events and volunteering to lead and improve our programs. Each additional member input makes us bigger, better, stronger, faster (insert “The Bionic Man” intro theme here).

Our exciting programs continue to generate sponsor interest. To borrow a

Art Director/Designer REBECCA CASHWELL Production Coordinator TARA DOTSON

phrase from one of our members, “everybody wants to be on a winning team.”

Sponsors see Lone Star Region as a winning team and are anxious to be a part of that success, leading to club growth and more robust events.

When referring to the Lone Star Region club and the Porsche marque, I often use the word “passion.” Although I do feel Porsche is the best daily and performance drive, I believe the passion is truly about the people. National PCA has a phrase, “it’s not just the cars, it’s the people.” Veteran PCA Members know this to be true, and I feel my life is full because of the relationships with people in this extended “family.”

To all Members, thank you for your ongoing commitment to the club and our purpose. We look forward to meeting all New Members at various future events (don’t forget to bring a casserole!) Welcome to the family!

Steven Bukoski, LSRPCA President

IN MEMORY OF JACK SMYTH LSRCPA BOARD MEMBER & DRIVING INSTRUCTOR On July 29, 2019, the LSRPCA lost beloved club member, Jack Smyth. Jack wasn’t just a member of our club, he was a father, husband, teacher, leader and a man with a passion for racing cars. He was always enthusiastic to be involved in our events and many of us had the pleasure of having him in our cars teaching us how to drive in DE’s or Car Control. Jack spent his last weekend in his happy place driving “OPCs,” or “Other People’s Cars.” Jack’s family has made it clear that his Porsche family was very special to him. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Linn Jensen Smyth, and three daughters: Khrysti Smyth Barry, Maclean (Smyth) Gerding and Dr. Karen (Smyth) Skinner.

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Copy Editor KEELEY RUBAL Sponsorships / Advertising VIK DAY HECTOR MARTINEZ editor@lsrpca.com Front Cover Photography CARL FEHRES Contributing Photographers BLAKE JENNINGS GHOST STUDIOS IVAN HRISTOV NICOLE GOLDMAN RS-WERKS TEXAS MOTOR PHOTOGRAPHY Contributing Writers BLAKE JENNINGS CAMERON CHIN IVAN HRISTOV JIM HEDDERICK MAC MCKEAND NICOLE GOLDMAN We want your submissions!

Send articles, event coverage and photos: editor@lsrpca.com

[ LO N E STA R M AG AZ I N E ]

PHOTO: CARL FEHRES

GO FAST!

STEVEN BUKOSKI PRESIDENT

VIK DAY EDITOR

PAM FITZGERALD SOCIAL EVENTS

president@lsrpca.com

editor@lsrpca.com

activities@lsrpca.com

KATHY KENDALL SECRETARY

THOMAS ROY CONCOURS d’ELEGANCE

NICOLE GOLDMAN STORE

secretary@lsrpca.com

concours@lsrpca.com

store@lsrpca.com

DOUG CARROLL TREASURER

TRA TOWNSEND DRIVERS EDUCATION [DE]

EDWIN GOLDMAN TOURING

treasurer@lsrpca.com

de@lsrpca.com

HECTOR MARTINEZ MEMBER AT LARGE

PHILIPPE OBERTI DE-CHIEF INSTRUCTOR

touring@lsrpca.com

memberatlarge@lsrpca.com

cdi@lsrpca.com

JIM HEDDERICK AUTOCROSS

ax@lsrpca.com

REYNALDO PAGAN DE-REGISTRAR

registrar@lsrpca.com

2019 LONE STAR MAGAZINE SPONSORS

ALAN KENDALL CAR CONTROL SCHOOL

ALASTAIR DONALD GET TOGETHERS [GTG’S]

XPEL

IFC

EINAR’S GARAGE

P. 05

ccs@lsrpca.com

LORI LOMBARDI CHARITIES

charities@lsrpca.com

HECOR MARTINEZ PCA CLUB RACING

clubrace@lsrpca.com

TRACE ENGLAND COMMUNICATIONS

comms@lsrpca.com

gtg@lsrpca.com

LYNN FRIEDMAN HISTORIAN

historian@lsrpca.com

ALASTAIR DONALD MEMBERSHIP

membership@lsrpca.com

TOM SANDERS SAFETY

safety@lsrpca.com

03

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[ LO N E STA R M AG AZ I N E : M O N E Y S H I F T ]

ALL PHOTOS: JIM HEDDERICK

BOXSTER 3.6L CARRERA ENGINE CONVERSION WRITER : JIM HEDDERICK

On Memorial Day weekend 2018, I performed a classic “money shift” mistakenly selecting 2nd gear at around 105mph severely damaging my Boxster S engine and gearbox.

A tech convinced me that replacing my damaged engine with a 996 engine was viable.

R E M O V I N G T H E E N G I N E / T R A N S A X L E The Boxster service

in cross section than the 996 Carrera 3.6L intake and the MAF

manual depicts a Boxster engine removal without a lift. This

sensor is located further upstream of the throttle body. With a

emboldened me to perform my conversion with 24” jack stands

MAF sensor mounting tube cut from a 996 airbox, I fabricated a

and a 1000lb lift table from Harbor Freight. Following the service

3.5” I.D. intake system.

manual instructions, the engine/transaxle was out in a few hours.

The port for the vacuum line powering the brake booster

The extent of the damage to the transaxle was now evident. The

on the 996 intake manifolds is on the back. Where Wayne used

pressure plate failed resulting in extensive damage to the transaxle

rubber fuel line to connect to it, I used straight and elbow sections

case. Thus, I took the damaged transaxle to a Porsche Gearbox

of hard line. I butted the hard lines together before covering

specialist. With a couple of inexpensive engine stands and a 3.6L

the splice with a rubber fuel line eliminating any possibility it

Carrera VarioCamPlus engine purchased from Viking Skovall, the

collapsing under vacuum F U E L S Y S T E M I converted my Boxster to a non-return fuel

conversion began.

I N TA K E S Y S T E M T he Boxster S air intake is 39% smaller

system as used on the 996 VarioCamPlus engines. I installed a

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photo: carl fehres

PORSCHE-SPECIFIC SERVICE, RESTORATIONS AND PARTS SERVICING VINTAGE AND CURRENT MODELS

[ LO N E STA R M AG AZ I N E : M O N E Y S H I F T ]

fuel pump from a 2009 Boxster and removed the return fuel line.

The non-return fuel pump delivers 62 PSI so I sourced 10mm and 8mm Fuel Injection 120 PSI rated fuel lines and a 10mm to 8mm brass hose barb reducer to connect the 996 fuel line.

I TOOK A"SLOW & CAREFUL” FASTER APPROACH.

connector pin that had to be moved or was not used on the DME 7.8 computer from the connector and reinserted pins into their new location. In 5 cases a spade connector had to be used as the wire moved to a connector that was part of the car body loom.

T R A N S M I S S I O N & C L U T C H The standard

Wayne sourced a new $3,200

Boxster S 6-speed gearbox handles the

DME 7.8 Computer, a $1,400 custom

extra power and torque of the 3.6L 996

program from Softronics, and paid a

engine.

Porsche dealer to sync the computer to

I

had

the

transaxle

rebuilt

with new bearings and seals, stronger 993 synchronizers,

the existing immobilizer and keyfob. In contrast, I purchased

hardened and ground 2nd and 3rd gear sets, and an OS

a used 996 DME 7.8, immobilizer, and key fob on EBay that

Giken limited slip differential.

was guaranteed by the seller to work for $750.

Using a Boxster flywheel and clutch assembly, the 996

I again temporarily installed the 3.6L engine and the

engine bolts up the Boxster transaxle. Because of taller

new immobilizer, computer, and key fob with my original

intake plenums, the stock shift cables are not long enough.

key blank installed. The engine fired right up. Using my

Aftermarket supplier Numeric manufactures longer 996 Cup

Durametric tool I confirmed that the variable valve lift

style shift cable specifically for Boxster conversions.

function was working correctly along with other functions.

E L E C T R I C A L M O D I F I C AT I O N S The most time consuming task

Removing the engine, I dressed the modified wiring

was creating a spreadsheet depicting the necessary wiring

loom using friction tape to weather proof it with #33

changes using my 2001 Boxster S electrical wiring diagram

electrical tape and tie wraps to dress it. I slept well that

and partial 996 wiring diagrams found on the internet.

night, confident that this was going to work.

P U T T I N G I T A L L T O G E T H E R I fitted the transaxle to the

About 10% of the wiring changes ultimately required some guesswork.

engine and lifted the assembly up together and bolted it

The 996 engine wiring harness connects with two multi-

into the engine bay. Installing the suspension, axles, shift

pin weatherproof connectors to the car body harness to the

linkage, exhaust, covers, and the rest was time consuming,

DME 7.8 computer. The Boxster engine wiring harness plugs

but not difficult.

directly to the DME 7.2 computer mounted in the trunk. The

I sourced a taller engine cover from a 2009 Cayman to

996 pin assignments are not organized in the same manner

accommodate the taller 996 intake plenums. I had to trim a

as the Boxster.

corner on one intake plenum and the non-structural frame

I took a “slow & careful faster” approach. Each wire

that supports the top cover. Under the car, the cylinder

from the two engines was disconnected and carefully

heads are physically larger (not by much) on the 3.6L engine.

labeled. The harnesses were unwrapped and each wire run

I found a set of headers that “hug” the cylinder heads a little

to the new 996 engine location. Some wires had to be spliced

closer to regain ground clearance.

and lengthened to reach new sensor locations.

Except for adjusting of the shift cables a few times to

Once the existing Boxster wires were connected,

get them just right, the car was finished. It took 9 weeks with

I temporarily installed the engine in the car and existing

three of those spent waiting on the transaxle.

2001 Boxster DME 7.2 computer confirming that the engine

F I N A L P R O D U C T The engine is 35 lbs. heavier but the extra

started and ran smoothly, though the intake valves were

power more than compensates. My 2600 lb. Boxster S track

opening only part way.

car 0-60 mph times are now around 4.5 seconds - awesome performance for the money and effort spent! J

Using my spreadsheet, I then carefully removed each

06

/ LO N E S TA R M A G A Z I N E /

photos: terry blackburn

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[ LO N E STA R M AG AZ I N E : D O N ’ T D I M I N I S H ]

PHOTO: CHRIS D’AGNOLIO

PHOTO: MAC MCKEAND

When you try to sell your car, one of the things a potential

In an attempt to simplify the rule, a third-party claimant

buyer will ask is: has your car ever been in an accident? If so, your

is a person whose car was damaged because of someone else’s

car will have a diminished value.

Diminished value is the difference between what your

fault. The third-party is making a claim against the at-fault

vehicle was worth before the accident and what it is worth

because that person is the party that has the agreement with

after repairs. Insurance companies will try to say there is no

the insurance company to pay for damages caused to another,

driver’s insurance company. The at-fault driver is the first party

diminished value because the car has been

considered a third party to the insuring

repaired. However, just because the car got

agreement. In Texas, you cannot recover

fixed doesn’t mean it’s as good as new, and a buyer may discount the value of the car because of the accident. As a seller, you have a duty to disclose information, such as the fact that the car was involved in an accident.

Further, the failure to disclose such information could result in you being sued. Knowledge or awareness can be objectively shown by the buyer through programs such as Carfax, repair records, and dealer inspections. The failure to disclose is a risk not worth taking.

The Texas Board of Insurance has now directed all insurance companies to pay diminished value. Commissioner’s Bulletin # B-0027-00 states, “An insurer also may be obligated to pay a third-party claimant

DON’T DIMINISH YOUR PORSCHE VALUERECOVER IT!

W R I T E R : B Y M AC M C K E A N D

for any loss of market value of the claimant’s

diminished value if you are the first party (or the party causing the damage). However, if the person causing the accident did not have any insurance (or not enough insurance to cover the damages) then, if you have underinsured/uninsured coverage, you can recover against your own insurance company for diminished value because someone else and not you caused the damage.

The bottom line is that an accident requiring repairs can significantly affect the value of your car, especially for a premium car like a Porsche. In order to recover on a diminished value claim, you will need to obtain an expert report showing how much value your car has lost due to the accident.

The report will not only establish your

automobile, regardless of the completeness

diminished value claim but also contradict

of the repair, in a liability claim that the third-party claimant

any contrary position of the insurance company. Depending

may have against a policyholder. Further, an insurer may be

on the variance between your position and the position of

obligated to pay a first-party claimant under the uninsured/

the insurance company, a lawyer can help. Most diminished

underinsured motorist coverage provisions of the policy,

value claims average around $2000, but more expensive cars,

for any loss of market value of the first party claimant’s

like Porsches, will suffer much higher diminished value. You

automobile, regardless of the completeness of the repair.”

shouldn’t settle for any diminished value of your Porsche. J

08

[ LO N E STA R M AG AZ I N E : M Y D R E A M W O R L D ]

MY DREAM WORLD

911

ALL PHOTOS ON RIGHT PAGE: GHOST STUDIOS

09

[ LO N E STA R M AG AZ I N E : B OXSTO B E R F E ST ]

WRITER : I VA N H R I S TOV

PHOTO: IVAN HRISTOV

BOXSTOBERFEST Oil? Check. Tire pressure? Check. Tools? Check.

to spend the evening before the start of Boxstoberfest’s

Walkie-talkie? Check. The car out of the garage and officially

early morning events.

ready for the 22nd annual Boxstoberfest? Check!

We arrived at The Hangar at 8 a.m. Saturday and were

Friday, September 6, was the first day of the long, highly

welcomed by the one of a kind view of 80 cars parked in a

anticipated Boxstoberfest weekend and with it brought a scenic

row with small airplanes flying in the background. When the

drive through Austin in the Texas summer heat. It’s not an official

pilots landed their planes, it was time for the Porsches to

Texas road trip without a quick stop at Buc-ee’s on the way.

start their engines.

Five hours later we arrived at our weekend retreat at

Once the driving event began we lost our group after

Barons CreekSide in Fredericksburg. Due to The Hangar

getting stuck at the red light in town. However, we didn’t

Hotel, Boxstoberfest’s home base, always being reserved a

let that stop our fun! The map that was provided gave us an

year ahead of time we chose to go rustic. Barons CreekSide

opportunity to follow the perfectly planned route. The drive

was an old Kentucky cabin with a pleasant Swiss touch. The

through Kerrville and Medina warmed up the tires and gave us

stream in front was the only noise we could hear; a complete

a hint of what to expect when we would encounter the Twisted

difference from the hustle and bustle of Houston!

Sisters: The Texas Hill Country’s Most Famous Trio!

In the evening, the local brewery in town rewarded

The first Sister we faced was Ranch Road 337, which

us with German style beer and bratwurst. Afterwards we

starts at the north side of Medina. We passed many beautiful

took a relaxing stroll down Main Street to check out the

ranches with numerous antelopes, deer, goat and cows staring

various shops and galleries. It was a nice, peaceful way

at the fine German machines disturbing their peaceful lunches.

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[ L O N E S/ TLAOR NMEA SG TA A Z IRN EM :A G B OAXZSI TNOEB E/ R F E S T ]

PHOTO: TEXAS MOTORSPORTS PHOTOGRAPHY

The panoramic views that we witnessed were worth it & the whole experience was priceless.

Now begins the wait for Boxstoberfest 2020!

The beginning of the drive had straight stretches through

On the way back into town we ended up getting lost when we

the fields and into the first of many twisty sections. The view

missed TX-39 and drove an extra 30 miles. Nonetheless that gave

changed to a more mountain-like scenery where we started

us a chance to meet the local sheriff who gave us directions back to

seeing more and more retreats along the clear, deep green-

Fredericksburg. We politely asked them to ignore our 5000rpms

blue waters of Medina River. The twisties came closer and

which they understandably accepted, laughing at our bravery!

were quickly approaching. The recommended speed dropped

Once back in Fredericksburg it was time to enjoy the

to 20mph, but we were brave enough to take it with 50mph.

official Boxstoberfest dinner at The Hangar Hotel’s restaurant.

The twists spun us around like an addicting carousel ride

The closing dinner hosted a raffle and the bar was stocked with

that you never wanted to end. Once we felt like well-trained

Hofbräu beer to help us swallow all the emotions of the day. It

Formula One drivers it was time for some good-ole Texas

was so nice to talk to fellow participants about the drive, the

barbecue at Bent Rim Grill.

curves, the speed, the hills, the staring cows and everything else that made the day unforgettable!

The second Sister, Ranch Road 335, brought almost as much excitement as the first, but our heavy bellies played a role

Temptation prevailed and on Sunday we had to go back

in us slowing down a bit to enjoy the scenery around us. The

to finish the Twisted Sisters. The third and final Sister, Ranch

blurred trees and mountain tops cleared up and looked like a

Road 336, was the best drive of the weekend! Doing it alone

Texas Hill Country dream. The rumbling strips on the asphalt

gave me a different perspective and feel. The panoramic views

were a reminder to not go 85mph in the 30mph speed limit, but

that we witnessed were worth it and the whole experience was

we felt the freedom and pushed again… and again… and again!

priceless. Now begins the wait for Boxstoberfest 2020! J

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[ LO N E STA R M AG AZ I N E : FO D D & F R I E N D S H I PS ]

PHOTO: CHRISTIE’S SEAFOOD & STEAKS / HOUSTON, TX

PORSCHES & FRIENDSHIPS WRITER : NICOLE GOLDMAN

On August 24, members of the Lone Star Region of the Porsche Club of America gathered together for a social dinner at one of the oldest restaurants in Houston, PHOTO: NICOLE GOLDMAN

Christie’s Seafood & Steaks. Founded in 1917, the family-owned restaurant has hosted countless Texans and travelers with their delicious, homestyle cooking made from the same recipes they’ve used for over 100 years. In addition to dinner, we hosted a cocktail hour with a cash bar from 5:30 p.m. till 6:30 p.m.

The dinner was a success and had a great turn out of both new and old club members. We couldn’t have done it without Pam Fitzgerald, who runs our social events, and her assistant Mike Globe.

We at LSR PCA enjoy spending time around our

PHOTO: NICOLE GOLDMAN

Porsche friends. While our cars are exclusive, our club is not. Membership is open to all Porsche owners, coowners and Porsche lovers who are 18 years of age or older.

We invite you to participate in our club’s activities.

Club activities are varied and should appeal to everyone from the serious driving enthusiasts to those who wish to just socialize with others who share their love of Porsches. Check out our website lsrpca.com for more details and pick an event from the calendar to join in on the fun! See you around. J PHOTO: CHRISTIE’S SEAFOOD & STEAKS / HOUSTON, TX

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MEMBER

S R MEM O

RI

CA

TOU

019 LSR P D2

[ LO N E STA R M AG AZ I N E : M E M O R I A L W E E K E N D LS R P CA TO U R ]

LSRPCA.COM FACEBOOK/GROUPS/LSRPCA INSTAGRAM:@LSR.PCA

AL WEEKEN

KIEPERSOL ESTATES WRITER : NICOLE GOLDMAN

PHOTO: RS-WERKS

PHOTO: NICOLE GOLDMAN

MEMORIAL WEEKEND

This past Memorial Day, LSRPCA members took a Week-

tour of the ranch and were lucky enough to have a taste of their

end Wine Tour to Kiepersol Estates, 20 miles outside of Tyler,

delicious olive oil with artisan bread. They even gave us bottles

Texas. The scenic, two-day tour was arranged by Fredna and

of olive oil to bring back home! Afterwards, we headed to lunch

Gary Manney. Saturday, May 25th, our group of 13 beautiful

at TX Burger in Madisonville. This small-town lunch spot is a

Porsches left Houston and began a scenic journey. TheWwellpopular stopping point for travelers, like our Porsche Lone Star R I T E R + P H OTO S : N I C O L E G O L D M A N members, and locals alike to enjoy a great meal. Our chosen route was beautiful, with an abundance of curved roads Region wonderful for driving a Porsche. 90 miles later, we arrived at

impressive group of 13 Porsches parked in front of the restau-

the first stop on the tour: Lone Star Olive Ranch. The ranch is a

rant was the talk of the town! After lunch, we embarked on a

family owned and operated olive business that grows and pro-

151-mile ride over scenic back roads and through quaint his-

duces 100% Texas, extra-virgin olive oil. We took an interesting

toric towns on our way to Kiepersol Estate. Set among 63 acres

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[ L O N E S T A R M A G/A LZ O I NNE E: SMTEAMRO M R I AA G L AWZE IENK EE N/ D L S R P C A T O U R ]

The estates were breathtaking, set among 63 acres of vineyards in the rolling hills of East Texas.

of vineyards in the rolling hills of East Texas, the estate was

at Smitty’s Market where we had a delicious BBQ lunch. This is

breathtaking. The entire experience from the wine and distill-

Mesquite smoked BBQ done right, with Smitty’s special blend

ery tours, to the restaurant bar and Bed & Breakfast, was sim-

of seasoning slowly rotated on a pit to bring out the best flavor.

ply outstanding. The Kiepersol Eggs Benedict for breakfast is

Edwin Goldman, LSRPCA Touring Chair who is responsi-

a must try! The dish is comprised of Lyonnaise potatoes, sliced

ble for the logistics of every LSRPCA tour, donated a percent-

filet mignon and two eggs with hollandaise sauce. After break-

age of the proceeds to the Ronald McDonald House. Caring for

fast, we left the estate for a visit to the world-famous Tyler Mu-

a seriously ill child is difficult, expensive and at times, terrifying.

nicipal Rose Garden. Featuring 14 acres, 35,000 rose bushes

For more than 30 years, Ronald McDonald House Houston has

and more than 500 varieties of roses, it was the perfect way to

been helping families with seriously ill children stay close to-

end our beautiful tour. On our way home, we stopped for lunch

gether during these difficult times. JPHOTO: COURTESY OF C PHOTO

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[ L O N E S T A R M A G A Z I N E : F A M I LY C O E R C I O N ]

What kind of Porsche owner are you? Would you track

one. I caught her eyeing a Cayman once when we were waiting

it? Are you a collector rounding the edges of a full garage?

at the valet. But when it came down to it, I love Baja. The desert

Is it a status symbol or a vehicle that has intrigued you since

race cars that bombed down rally roads will always stick out in

adolescence? For me, it may have been a purchase under all

my mind when thinking about Porsche’s racing legacy.

of those pretenses. But the biggest and possibly mostshocking

So it had to be a Carrera. Hell, the word in Spanish literally

truth… the car is a “bump” present for my wife.

means “race.” I snatched up a $13K 996 coupe with 150K miles

I’m an off-road racer, as well as an custom fabrication

and a 6 speed. The IMS, clutch, brakes, and tires had all been

shop owner in Las Vegas. Because of my line of work, we

done within the last year. This one sat outside neglected. The

may be showing a new build at SEMA one week and then

previous owner was very guilty that one of his three coveted

following it with a stretch in Mexico to race the Baja 1000.

cars lived uncovered from the elements.

My wife has always supported me in all of this over the last

Now, it wasn’t perfect. There was some cosmetic wear and

decade. It was time to get her a toy she could be proud of.

tear for a 19-year old car, but I have a 40’ paint booth. The interior

But what would it be?

needed a clean and the

Midway through her second pregnancy, I was sucker punched right off a ledge. My father threw me the keys to his new Boxster while visiting the family in Katy. I took the

FAMILY

shifter

felt

like

mush.

After a partial respray, cut and buff, some euro turn signals, a proper modern

touchscreen

GPS stereo, and short throw shifter… we have a

TX-99 to I-10 merger at

really nice driver that did

a brisk pace and the car

not kill me. Not going to

was so flat without any

lie… I did pull a dash bulb

body roll. My brother sat

instead of replacing a

next to me laughing. We

faulty $400 seat buckle/

flipped a quick U-turn, ran

sensor assembly. I’m “one

back south on 99 weaving

of those” Porsche owners.

through cars until we hit the Westpark Tollway and really opened her up. The steering was precision and the flat 6 sang superbly.

“So

that’s

what

COERCION W R I T E R & P H OTO : C A M E RO N C H I N

people are always talking

But these machines are meant to be driven.

And I would much rather spend

my

free

time

behind the wheel than tinkering on it.

My wife and I have

about… the Porsche handling!” I exclaimed.

had the car for less than a year and put about 7K miles on it.

“Yep, that’s why I have the Macan for winter and the

She drives it to work every once-in-a while and I stretch its legs

Cayman GTS for nice weather”

when a break from life is needed. 1400 of those miles came

Did I just get pressured by my family to buy a Porsche?

driving it cross country, from Vegas to Katy. We moved here

From that night in to the following weeks, I began searching

last month.

for the perfect car. One of the brand’s best attributes may be

Have you ever wanted to drive that far in a sports car?

it is iconic status, where zero customization is required to have

There are many vehicles you would get tired of in a few short

an amazing visceral experience. But which one was the “right

hours. The 996 is not one of them. Hate on the head lights if

itsone” for her? And if she didn’t like it, what could I build

you must, but I can’t think of a more thrilling value than one

something fun out of?

of these cars. Although, I do wish the seats were a bit more

In the beginning, I considered a first gen Boxster.

comfortable. One thing is for sure: When life slows down a bit,

Thoughts of tracking a spec car was momentarily alluring. Then I

I will definitely buy another for myself… or buy her a new one,

remembered it’s not for me. I could build a race car with the next

and start to modify this one! J

16

[ LO N E STA R M AG AZ I N E ]

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[ LO N E STA R M AG AZ I N E : D R E A M ]

FULFILLING A CHILDHOOD

WRITER & PHOTOS : BLAKE JENNINGS

In rural Texas in the eighties, cars were heavy, ham-fisted

Euro 3.2 Carrera only to discover through a confusing Carfax

Crown Vics and Buick Regals that lumbered along in an ocean

reference that it had been salvaged in Oklahoma, “washed” in

of pickups. None interested me in the least, Then one fateful day

North Carolina, and rebranded “clean” in Texas decades before

when my dad took me to a European car meet. While e-type Jags

the current owner even purchased it. Moral of the story: do your

drew his attention, it was a 911 that grabbed me and never let

homework and take your time!

go. I left with an enduring love for its small size, elegant lines,

Frustrated from months of fruitless searching, I decided

and growling exhaust. In the intervening years, I have driven a

to scroll back through every air-cooled 911 for sale on Pelican.

wide swath of the automotive world, including a few noteworthy

An ’85 Prussian blue 911 coupe in upstate NY caught my eye. I

sports cars. Yet nothing has displaced an air-cooled 911 as my

had read the ad multiple times before, but the high price and lack

aspirational first-choice. So, after years of dreaming and saving, I

of AC turned me away. It was truly beautiful, though, and in my

began to hunt in earnest early this year for one of my own.

favorite color. So, with little hope of success, I sent a message to

The hunt began with copious research. I am an engineer-

the seller asking if he’d consider selling within my budget. I got

by-training and have spent most of my life around cars. I know

lucky. He was not interested in listing elsewhere and was tired

that rushing this stage can lead to expensive mistakes. I became

of it sitting on Pelican. He had four Porsches, two TR6’s, and

a frequent reader of Pelican and Rennlist forums, and poured

was about to purchase a new Mustang. He needed garage space

over buying guides by Haggerty and PCA. I learned from local

in a hurry. Not only was his price negotiable, but his backstory

air-cooled owners. Most helpful of all, I drove a few examples

was superb. He was a retired Porsche and Mercedes mechanic

from various generations. This wealth of information narrowed

with his own fully equipped garage. He began to list all the work

my search to an SC or 3.2 Carrera coupe in the best mechanical

he’d done to the car over his ten years of ownership and it was

shape I could afford within a budget of $35k.

extensive. Transmission, suspension, brakes, bushings, seals and

For months, I scoured online forums, Panorama classifieds,

gaskets, electrics, sensors, hubs and axles, headliner, sunroof ...

and Craisglist. While I found quite a few nice examples, few were

on and on he went. The car was absolutely rust and leak free. It

in my price range, and some that were had “scam” written all over

still had no AC, but most of the parts were included, and research

them. Case in point, I came close to purchasing a pristine looking

convinced me this was a job I could tackle.

18

[ LO N E STA R M AG AZ I N E : D R E A M ]

IT WAS A 911 THAT GRABBED ME AND NEVER LET ME GO. I LEFT WITH AN ENDURING LOVE FOR IT’S SMALL SIZE, ELEGANT LINES AND GROWLING EXHAUST.

19

[ LO N E STA R M AG AZ I N E : D R E A M ]

Yet there was still one

Less than a week later, the

final question, perhaps the most

gorgeous deep blue 911 of my

important of all: could I trust him?

childhood imagination tentatively

A PPI and photographs are great,

backed out of a covered trailer

but they are not full-proof. I was

in our local Lowe’s parking lot.

about to spend more money on a

Even covered in New England

car than I’d ever spent, and hadn’t

pollen, it was more beautiful in

even laid eyes on it yet because

sheet metal than in the pictures.

of the distance. Could I trust that

Half an hour later, with my twins

he wasn’t hiding something that would bite me later? So just as I do

in the backseat and my wife up front, we rocketed down a

when hiring an employee, I did my research on him. I read everything

nearby country road yelling with delight. Afterwards, my dad,

he had ever posted on Pelican, which proved he was proficient in air-

the co-conspirator in my automotive hobby, helped me give her

cooled maintenance. I contacted references: a Porsche shop owner

a thorough cleaning. Gazing at her freshly washed and waxed

who had turned wrenches with him years before and a moderator at

under the lights of my garage, I was taken back to the days of my

Rennlist who knew him personally and professionally. Both vouched

youth when I first fell in love with this car. Few people get the

for his integrity and knowledge. For me, this was decisive. I said one

opportunity to own their automotive first crush. I am grateful to

last prayer and sealed the deal with a stomach-turning wire transfer.

be one of them. J

20

[ LO N E STA R M AG AZ I N E : CA L E N DA R ]

Our club hosts a number of fun and engaging events.

If you’ve never been to one of our events, come out and say howdy and more importantly—DRIVE! You can always see what is happening in real time by checking out LSRPCA.COM

[GTG] NORTH

[GTG] CENTRAL

Every Fourth Saturday: 8:30am - 10:00am Hubbell & Hudson Kitchen, 4526 Research Forest Dr., The Woodlands, TX 77381

Every First Saturday: 8:30am – 10:30am The Paper Co., 1100 Elder St, Houston, TX 77007

[GTG] SOUTHEAST Every Second Saturday: 8:30am - 10:00am Dunn Brothers Coffee, 201 S Friendswood Dr., Friendswood, TX 77546

[DE] HIGH SPEED DRIVER’S EDUCATION

[GTG] WEST

Location: MSR Houston Dates: Dec. 7 – 8, 2019 Registration opens Nov. 11th

Location: MSR Houston Dates: Oct. 5 – 6, 2019 Registration is open.

Every Second Saturday: 8:30am - 10:00am Whiskey Cake Kitchen & Bar, 23139 Grand Cir Blvd, Katy, TX 77449

[AX] AUTO CROSS Name: 2019 LSR Autocross No. 8 Location: Houston Police Academy Date: Nov. 10, 2019 Registration is open.

[GTG] SOUTHWEST Every Third Saturday: 8:30am - 10:30am | Starbucks, 18802 University Blvd, Sugar Land, TX 77479

CONCOURSE D’ELEGANCE Location: King’s Bierhaus 2044 E T C Jester Blvd, Houston, TX 77008 Date: Nov. 16, 2019 Registration via

[GTG] NORTHWEST

PHOTO: RS-WERKS

Every Third Saturday: 8:30am - 10:00am Starbucks, 25615 Hwy 29, Cypress, TX 77249

LSRPCA.com

22

PEOPLE. PASSION.

PHOTO: CARL FEHRES

PHOTO: CARL FEHRES

PHOTO: RS-WERKS

IT’S A PORSCHE

24

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