Porsche 911 (87): Fender Restoration

This film is about the restoration of the fender of my Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2 from 1987.
It all started with a careful cleaning, but I soon noticed that under its so-called rust protection some corrosion issues were waiting to be dismantled. I already repaired the car-sided rust damage in my last video, this time I tackle the fender side of the problem.
Repair panels were handcrafted from sheet metal and butt welded into the car. A beading machine was heavily used to shape the repair panels in an as original state as possible.
#porsche911 #classicporsche #restoration
If you like my content, please consider signing up to my channel and turning the bell on:
th-cam.com/users/GreasyFinger...
Here's as announced in the video the link to the shirts:
teespring.com/de/stores/greas...

[@hugogreen4916]

You and Raising Junior are incredible in showing that with skill and tenacity the most amazing of repairs can be achieved

[@GreasyFingers]

Thank you, Hugo. Yeah, Geoffrey and myself have much in common.
Envy him for the helping hand of his father!

[@raisingjunior6389]

Thanks for the mention, I guess it's an exercise in patience and enjoying the process, having my dad's help is a big bonus

[@gearhead9828]

Never seen such a skill level before, so impressive! Admit it, in real life you are the head of body restoration at Porsche Classic or so 😉

[@GreasyFingers]

Thanks, my friend. In fact I’m not, but I get your point and I’m grateful for the kind words.
And let’s not forget, Porsche would rather sell us a new fender! 😆

[@gearhead9828]

@@GreasyFingers True. How does the other fender look?

[@GreasyFingers]

Better, but not good enough to stay on. 🤨

[@teddybear2123]

Thank you for publishing new video. Looking forward seeing new episodes and learning new skils from you.

[@GreasyFingers]

Thanks 🧸
It’s astonishing that people consider my humble efforts to keep my cars going to be helpful in learning new skills.

[@manjit9445]

Artistry in motion ..great work on some challenging shapes.

[@GreasyFingers]

Thank you, Manjit. In the meantime the paint is on and that reveals some minor sins.

[@mertozyurek7169]

this channel is so underrated! thx for the videos

[@GreasyFingers]

I sincerely hope one day it won’t be underrated anymore. Thanks for commenting!

[@toony_1of3]

Your films are so relaxing. Thank you for taking the time to make them.

[@GreasyFingers]

Thanks, Mart. In fact that’s one of my goals. A viewer once told me he watches them before he goes to bed and that’s something I like hearing.

[@mathiask.4041]

Unglaublich, mit welcher Präzision du das machst!!!

[@GreasyFingers]

Danke, Fritz. Irgendwie kann ich nur Präzision, sonst wird’s gar nichts.

[@Matteo_Licata]

Wow, your patience and skill keep amazing me. In this case, I guess you also saved a pretty penny, given a new fender from Porsche must be quite expensive.

[@GreasyFingers]

That is true, Matteo. There’s an after market product from JP which costs about 1k.
Let’s see whether I can save the paint job, that would save another 0,5 ...

[@peaktraveller]

Brilliant as usual maestro. Thank you for the education and entertainment.

[@GreasyFingers]

Thanks for the feedback & see you!

[@natjes6017]

This is beyond fantastic 👌 I´m just sitting silently and dreaming away that I should learn how to MIG/TIG-weld...

[@GreasyFingers]

Just do it! 😀

[@bashsharif8272]

another superlative-laden masterclass in foundational metal fabrication. I'm with you on cutting metal! Your welding skills have notched up another level as well. keep up the great work.

[@GreasyFingers]

Many thanks, my friend. Without having planned to do so, I continue deep diving into these metal fabrications.
As I mentioned in one of the films (not kidding you): I wanted to clean it in the first place.

[@blairs3503]

Exceptional work! Thank you for sharing

[@GreasyFingers]

Thanks! 🪛

[@thewatchman1078]

The effort here is fantastic this car will have so much of you in it you will surely never sell it. The rot these cars have is painful to witness.

[@GreasyFingers]

True! The emotional bond goes too far already to sell it.

[@65Alfaromeo]

Sehr schöne Arbeiten und absolut sympathisch rübergebracht. Leider kann man das nicht 1:1 lernen, so ein Geschick muss man auch im Blut haben.

[@GreasyFingers]

Danke! Freut mich riesig!

[@gerdakunzell7942]

What an incredible job!

[@bradcrossman5068]

Holy Moly Johannes! Such dedication. Bravo!

[@GreasyFingers]

Always seeking to do the best I can. Thanks, Brad!

[@amg2rs236]

Just glued to your vids bud!!! so skilfull and informative!!

[@jeffreystrain7657]

Incredible content. I have an 88 targa with a bit of fender puckering. I could never attempt this type of work but your restoration gave me a very clear view of what needed to be done.
Thank you!

[@GreasyFingers]

Thank you, Jeffrey. Note that this very repair panel is now available at JP.

[@christianrodrigo5010]

In der Ruhe liegt die Kraft ! Sowas kann man im Karroseriebetrieb nicht bezahlen 😣😂viele Grüße aus dem Rheinland von nem alten KFZ-MECHANIKER ! PS hatte auch mal einen 84ziger Targa musste die B Säulen auch schweißen weil die durch waren hab auch nur teilweise erneuert und anschließend mit Spraydose beilackiert ! Da hab ich noch als KFZ-MECHANIKER gearbeitet, aber als ich 2016 aus der Reha(Hüfte) kam hab ich den Porsche schweren Herzens verkaufen müssen,den die Kodflügel riefen auch nach Zuwendung 🤣😂

[@GreasyFingers]

Ja, das stimmt! Schnell geht bei mir überhaupt nicht. Und ja, zahlen könnte das keiner. Entweder man macht’s selber oder ein neuer Kotflügel müsste her. Viel Glück mit der Hüfte!

[@jeffhammond8969]

Your fabrication skills are amazing!

[@GreasyFingers]

Thanks, Jeff. I’d prefer to avoid having to do panel fabrications of this kind but if I must …

[@trainer3235]

Servus Johannes! Ups das war ja ne böse Überraschung! Hast Du dich schon gefragt, wie es unter dem linken Kotflügel aussieht:)? Hut ab, unglaublich präzise frickeliige Arbeit, das können die Profis auch nicht besser. Beneide Dich um Deine Geduld und Ausdauer! Freue mich schon auf die nächsten Videos. Grüße aus Budapest! R

[@GreasyFingers]

Hallo Rainer. Lange nichts gehört, ich hoffe, es geht Dir gut!
Danke fürs Kompliment. Der linke scheint etwas besser, muss aber auch raus. Mehr kann ich noch nicht sagen.

[@jamescopsey2837]

Great skill. Very well worded commentary (your English is exemplary). Thoughtfully filmed and edited. Educational and inspiring. Bravo!

[@GreasyFingers]

Thanks a ton James. Frankly, this channel wouldn’t be the same without your comments. So encouraging!!!

[@paulnorris7270]

Perfection. Great work

[@GreasyFingers]

Thanks, Paul!

[@villajohn1]

This is an excellent video having just purchased a 911 with this corrosion on it I have gained confidence from your success in dealing with this problem on your 911 . Keep up the excellent presentation and detailed accounts of keeping this beautiful car in good shape

[@GreasyFingers]

Glad you like it.
Don’t hesitate to recommend it to other Porsche nuts like ourselves.

[@lieberfreialsgleich]

Schön gemacht. Ich finde auch, man sollte immer nur soviel restaurieren, wie nötig ist und lieber Substanz und vor allem den originalen Lack soweit wie möglich erhalten. Ein neuer und frisch lackierter Kotflügel fällt gerade bei roten Autos immer auf.

[@GreasyFingers]

Ja, da sind wir gleich gestrickt. Ich versuche auch lang lang die Teile zu retten, bevor ich sie irgendwann vielleicht doch wegwerfe. Was ich nicht retten werde, ist der Öltank. Ich mache mir Sorgen, dass innen irgendwas weg bröselt und irgendwo landet.

[@raisingjunior6389]

Another great video! I really like the wooden buck tip

[@GreasyFingers]

Thanks, Geoffrey. Note it only works work hardwood, oak or so.

[@larkfield2000]

Continuing to marvel at your skills. Really top notch work. Thanks for sharing.

[@GreasyFingers]

Thank you, James. You grow with your challenges, that’s what they say.

[@halvardollikainen3999]

Very inspiring and a real joy to watch. Keep up the good work 🙂

[@GreasyFingers]

Thanks, Halvard. Have fun watching !

[@goofballgarage]

Your videos are better than therapy ....... Maybe i should buy a small project ;-)

[@GreasyFingers]

You should most certainly!

[@hilbilchillbil]

Lovely skill and care

[@GreasyFingers]

Thanks, Paul!

[@ActionM]

Another great video!Well done!!

[@GreasyFingers]

Many thanks, Pantelis. Regards to beautiful Greece (I guess?)

[@ActionM]

@@GreasyFingers Yes,Greece.Thank you very much! :)

[@buildingsalvage]

Need a TIG welder for those panel repairs! Awesome work though, enjoying the series!

[@GreasyFingers]

Thanks!
I’d love to have one. Maybe one day when I grow up ... 😀

[@cybersurfer2010]

Very satisfying to watch... Great work...

[@GreasyFingers]

Many thanks. Appreciated!

[@anthonytersigni4049]

Great work as always. So challenging, but yet must be so rewarding for you! Saving that original fender is priceless...

[@GreasyFingers]

Thank you Anthony. Yeah, it’s literally a saving. I’m going to remove the fleece stuff tomorrow, wish me luck that no welding bead and stuff has gone under it ...

[@krisdecreton4243]

Great work!

[@GreasyFingers]

Thanks, Kris!

[@j.coby_99]

Love to watch your work! Great job

[@GreasyFingers]

Thanks, Jacob.

[@julien7206]

Awesome work, very inspiring ! Thanks for sharing and giving others the will to do their best in their restorations. Keep going !

[@GreasyFingers]

Hey Julien. Many thanks for the feedback. I’ll keep going!

[@m0d.]

Wonderful video and many thanks for sharing the experience! Truly a master at work!

[@GreasyFingers]

Many thanks! Always a pleasure.

[@alberdellbruegge7901]

GREAT VIDEO!

[@GreasyFingers]

Glad you like my stuff, mate.
A new one will be released on Friday.

[@bevsighttv1982]

CHR un Jour, CHR toujours ✊✊✊

[@GreasyFingers]

Toyota CHR you mean?

[@malibuquest]

I absolutely love your videos. Your approach to the work and patience are great. I had been considering getting a mig welder for my next project (a 66 912) and doing more metal work myself. I think this has inspired me to do just that so thank you.

[@GreasyFingers]

Thank you, Andrew. That’s so good to read. It will take you a day or two with training panels and you’ll have it under control.
When it comes to looks, F models are just magnificent.

[@fabianklingberg2123]

Thanks for sharing your journey through the (spot) restoration! I like the way of doing it step by step and not stripping the whole car. My dad and I own a 1978 targa and we have to go through most of your jobs already done. I appreciate it very much and it will helpful for me. Keep the videos coming.

[@GreasyFingers]

Many thanks, Fabian.
A father and son project is an amazing thing.

[@tianriseng1453]

Good work!

[@GreasyFingers]

Thanks, Tian!

[@alfamaniacGR]

Amazing!!!

[@GreasyFingers]

Thank you! 😀

[@Bogdan_Tro]

Hello. Another interesting lesson about metal working today 🙂. I'm waitting also to see what method and materials you will use to protect against rust the areas you've just repaired. Thank's for infos!

[@GreasyFingers]

Thank you Bogdan.
Don’t expect too much there. I’m not a believer in products, I take very common and basic stuff.

[@ScuderiaUsignolo]

Nice Nice job!👌

[@GreasyFingers]

Thanks, mate. Gotta keep up with your videos, I’m behind 2 or three, but I’ll catch up!

[@ScuderiaUsignolo]

@@GreasyFingers recognizable, there is so much fun to see, but your own channel also takes a lot of time!

[@josepinto9416]

Salut à toi,
Cela fait maintenant un moment que je te suis au début j'avais du mal à comprendre ce que tu été en train de réaliser et la je suis scotchée tu fait un très bon travail peut être lent mes sûrement car à mes yeux plus d'1 tôliers aurez déjà jeter ton aile mes toi non c'est juste un exelent travail, juste te dire tes autres vidéos je les et vue par contre j'en suis désolé je t'es mis juste un pousse en l'air que a celle-ci sinon considère que a toutes tes vidéos elles mon plus encore bravo à toi👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@trainer3235]

Moin Johannes, alles gut hier. Hoffe Dein Knie ist wieder 100% fit, braucht man ja nicht nur zum Tennisspielen:) Ich kann es kaum noch erwarten meinen 3,2 wieder zu bewegen. Werde ihn im Frühjahr/Sommer nach Budapest bringen, um ihn regelmäßiger zu bewegen. Hoffentlich mal bis bald
Rainer

[@GreasyFingers]

Melde Dich, wenn’s soweit ist!

[@pwjackson888]

Wow!!

[@GreasyFingers]

☺️

[@stevewuertz3598]

Excellent work. Very impressive. Between you and Fitzee, I'm learning how to do it properly and that it doesn't always require $10K worth of tools. Will be watching how you blend in the paint. Single stage or Two stage? Thanks from Austin

[@GreasyFingers]

Thanks very much Steve.
Is that Austin, Texas? You shouldn’t have any rust issues there.
The blend-in paint job will be more on the simple side. We’re only talking about either internal or hardly visible places.

[@enricocastelli7905]

Fantastic work, that modelling was quite incredible. Sorry if I am discreet, but I am just curious: what is your background? Do you have a related profession or experience or you learned this knowledge and skills as a hobby? I am so impressed, can't wait for the next video!

[@GreasyFingers]

Thanks a ton! Having a degree in automotive engineering I’m sort of a professional, but all the practical work is just learning by doing.

[@jorgdannemann5161]

Hallo,
Ich bin wirklich immer wieder begeistert über die Ruhe die du in deinen Videos ausstrahlt. Ganz grosses Tennis.
Allerdings würde mich mal interessieren was für ein Schweissgerät du verwendest.
Ich gerade einen sehr guten Porsche 944 bekommen, der allerdings ein paar kleine Stellen zum Schweißen. Davon würde ich gerne das ein oder andere selbst erledigen.
Wäre dankbar für einen Tipp.
Freue mich auf weitere Videos!!!
Gruß Jörg

[@GreasyFingers]

Danke, Jörg.
Magst Du mir bitte ein Mail schreiben? Meine Adresse findest Du in der About-Section vom Kanal.
Grüße!

[@Kai77884]

Hallo ein schönes Video und wie immer super Arbeit 👍👍👍👍was nehmen sie als Korrosionsschutz ?? Mit freundlichen Grüßen aus dem Ruhrgebiet 👋👋👋Kai

[@GreasyFingers]

Danke, Kai!
Im Moment nehme ich für kleine Stellen Brunox als Primer und als nächstes 2K-Filler von verschiedenen Herstellern. Dann Karo-Dicht von Petec und dann Steinschlagschutz ebenfalls von Petec, dann wasserbasierte Farbe und 2K-Klarlack. Wenn ich größere Flächen machen würde, würde ich statt Brunox Etch Primer verwenden

[@aaronczyzewski5390]

Nice. Do you have more work to do on your targa?

[@GreasyFingers]

Hi Aaron. It ran without issues when I stored it away in fall. There are some minor corrosion things to be settled, but that will have to wait till next winter.

[@remcotissink]

Very inspiring to see you restore parts of the car without taking all the car to bare metal. Why don't you have rubber jaws to your vice ?

[@GreasyFingers]

Yeah, too good to rip it all off.
I do have rubber jaws, but if it’s steel to be clamped, can’t see the point.

[@andreasvenator]

´87 ? Did you decide to get one built after the summer with a G 50 transmission or was that a low priority? Did you trade in the oak green Targa? That tartan inlay was super to go with that dark green metallic...almost like a Bentley color.

[@GreasyFingers]

The G50 is nice, but people make a bit too much a fuzz about it. It doesn’t take away much of the 911 feeling to change gears a bit more slowly.
I still own the Targa and currently there are no issues with it, that’s why these days it’s not on the channel. I’m quite sure that this is going to change at some point soon ... 😆

[@garagechronicles9008]

Subscribed -- love it!
Brilliant footage, sir. I am building a 61 Beetle, but hope to delve into a 911 in the near future.
'Garage chronicles with Grant' is my channel..

[@GreasyFingers]

Cool channel you got. Signed-up!

[@CARRJ142]

My two major dislikes are rust and crabgrass.

[@GreasyFingers]

Yes, but in doubt I’d prefer the crabgrass. 😆

[@alessandronardelli551]

So meticulous. I don't know anybody else who would have rebuilt all the beads.

[@peterstern6695]

Probier's mal mit wig,....