1962 Porsche 356B 1600S T6 Reutter Cabriolet #156228

Chassis # 156228 was sold new in Germany to Captain Matthews, a US Army pilot stationed there, on 26 January 1962. As an Army officer, he had various command and staff assignments. Captain Matthews eventually sold his Porsche after returning home to Georgia USA.

Among the original documents with this car is the Service Book, with entries from the German dealership starting 27 January 1962, and ending 15 October 1962. First USA service book entry is 28 November 1962 at Hughes Motor Company, Columbus GA. Last service book entry Reakirt Motors Inc., Columbus GA. 08 July 1963.

I picked up the trail next in San Diego, CA 1986, when a Mr. Gainen purchased 156228 from a classic car dealer lot which he does not remember the name or location of today. This keeper commissioned a repaint in original color Ivory #6204, at an experienced specialty shop in New Hampshire 1988 or 89, which he could also not recall the name of. The convertible top was replaced at the same time. It was reported that there was no rust, or any metalwork needed at the time of the repaint. Mr. Gainen traded in the car for a new Porsche in 2004, today's seller bought the car a few days later. So we know that the car has lived in dry, heated garages since at least 1986.

Another original document, the PRUFKARTE or factory build sheet that followed the car through the assembly line, confirms that all major components are original to the car.

In 2010-11, a comprehensive rebuild of the engine was completed, 5415 miles since rebuild:

Crankshaft was replaced with a 356C crank, superior to the original "B" crank, as the #2 and #3 main journals are 55mm instead of 50mm. Requisite internal fabrication and machining to saddles done correctly. Good SC/912 rods were used, rebuilt in the usual fashion by the machine shop.

The original cast iron cylinders were bored and honed out to 86mm to be used with new Shasta brand forged pistons. The compression ratio was set to 9,25:1. Super Unleaded fuel should be used.

The camshaft was replaced with a new factory cam reground to an appropriate profile for this engine setup.

Floor pans have considerable rust degradation, though there is no severe structural failure at this time. There is no separation in the pans despite some rust through in places, and the integrity of the monocoque is intact. Body panel shape and fit is very good, all seals and trim in good order. The only piece of hardware that I know to be replacement is the left tail light fixture, everything else appears to be original.

The car runs and drives reliably.