Restoration of Porsche Electrical Systems

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At MCE Porsche we can update the existing generator/dynamo to 12V, or we can also supply and fit a 12V full alternator that maintains the look of the  original dynamo in the engine bay, provides internally regulated minimum 12V from idle, and does away with the need for the existing, occasionally unreliable, mechanical regulator altogether. Picture above shows a full 12V alternator fitment, maintaining the period look of the dynamo casing. 

Converting to 12V involves much more than the upgrade of the dynamo. All the existing 6V devices must also be modified, changed or converted. Here at MCE we have expertise in converting all elements of the system, including the ignition coil, all interior gauges, the starter motor, horns, flashers, relays, fuses and of course, the ability to use a modern 12V battery source and 12V bulbs all round. We also offer LED conversions with 12V systems, which are very useful to improve night-time visibility in modern traffic.

Either as part of a 12V conversion or for period restoration of an original dash, the gauges may need rectification work. We can conduct coil rewinding, oil temperature calibration, speedo repair or any other repair work to bring the gauges back to life and function as original.

Gauge recalibration to 10,000rpm full scale, complete with revised face design, customisable for with/without indicator and high beam warning lights and with/without redline. Photo also shows speedometer conversion to 220mph full scale.

Often the buckets from the original assemblies corrode, the chrome trims become dented or damaged or the adjustment mechanisms collapse, lenses need updating or the rubber seals decay. We strip down the entire assemblies, rechroming and repainting where required, and rebuild with new adjustment mechanisms and rubbers. On request we can update the reflector units for alternative bulb configurations (P45t, H1, H4) or convert to LED reflector assemblies for modern-day levels of night illumination, whilst still maintaining the exact period-correct appearance.

Corroded trim rings, buckets and adjuster mechanisms restored, and custom reflectors manufactured in-house for discrete LED conversions that optimise beam pattern and provide the correct dipped-beam profile.

Bosch Fresnel lenses for LHD and RHD markets, and Hella SB 19 20 21 clear lenses for sealed-beam applications are all available to provide the correct period finish to the assembly.

If you have tired, aged, damaged or the wrong specification lenses in your SWB front or rear side and indicator light assemblies, there is no need to replace the entire light box with expensive replacements or poor quality reproductions. With care, it is possible to replace the existing lens, bringing a fresh new look to the assembly and retain the original light boxes. The above photo shows a recently refurbished set of US assemblies, converted to Euro spec with new lenses and bulb holders.

Often the bulb holders and boxes can be corroded. Stripping the assembly gives an opportunity to examine, restore or replace where necessary.

If the original lenses are not too far gone, they can normally be removed from the box without damage, giving the option to reverse the assemblies back to their original specification in the future if required.