914 SBC Conversion

The 914 was introduced in 1970 as an entry level Porsche. It had many great features: mid-engine design, lightweight unibody construction, 4 wheel disc brakes, a targa top, and the Porsche name. It did, however, lack one important feature ... HORSEPOWER! It boasted a whopping 95 horsepower, if you were lucky enough to have one of the 2.0 liter cars. Porsche actually offered the 914 as a "hybrid" car far before we were in existence. Volkswagen, not Porsche, manufactured the 4 cylinder engines they installed. Ever notice how similar a stock 914 engine sounds to a VW bug?

Whether you have a stock 914 money pit that gets out-accelerated by people on bicycles, or you are looking for a great project car, Renegade offers a conversion kit so you can easily perform the transformation to Chevy V-8 power in your own garage. Our conversion kit utilizes the very common Chevy small block V-8; anything from 283-350 cubic inches. You can even use your stock 914 transaxle! It is good for about 300 hp, as long as you don't abuse it too much... Try to avoid shock loading!

We began performing conversions on the 914s back in 1982. Since then, the kit has undergone many upgrades and improvements. We now have this conversion down to a science and everything goes together with great ease. You don't have to "hack" your car up either...everything just bolts together. The only cutting that is required is to accommodate the addition of the radiator in the front trunk. Our conversion kit provides the means to perform a clean, professional installation. The end result is a reliable, daily driver, with low cost maintenance and amazing power. ( pictures )

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the basic kit?
The basic engine conversion kit provides you with the components you will need to mount your Chevy motor in the Porsche engine bay and adapt it to the stock transaxle. We include the adapter plate, flywheel, clutch components, motor mounts, tranny mounts, remote water pump assembly, harmonic balancer, brackets, belts, and hardware. The kit is very complete and will keep your trips to the parts store to a minimum. ( picture )

Is your engine kit everything I will need for the conversion?
No... not quite. In addition to acquiring a Chevy V-8 power plant, you will also need the following: cooling system, exhaust system, a strong starter, stiffer rear springs, tachometer recalibration, and coolant and oil pressure sending units. Renegade can provide all these items for you.

How much should I expect to spend on the conversion?
Our basic engine conversion kit goes for $1800.00. Other components necessary for the conversion, radiator assembly, heavy duty rear springs, exhaust headers, hi-torque starter, and engine wiring harness, purchased through Renegade will total slightly over $2,000. An engine from Chevy, such as the ZZ4, should cost somewhere in the neighborhood of $3,500. Thus, allowing for a few other do dads, such as senders and recalibration of the tach, the total conversion price will just over $7,500.

I'm on a very limited budget, can I do a conversion for any less?
Sure, you can do a good, sound conversion for as little as $3,000. However, this assumes that you will be getting only the basic engine conversion kit from us. The other components you would be sourcing from dismantlers and/or fabricating yourself. Not bad... 300 hp for $3,000!

Can I use my stock tranny?
Yes. The stock 914 tranny is good for 300 hp in street applications. However, try to avoid abusing it. The gear ratios are ok in stock form, but, we also offer taller gears that make it better suited for use with most V-8s. You may want to use your tranny in stock form, until you are ready for a rebuild. Then, just send us your tranny for the rebuild and we can replace 3rd, 4th, and 5th with taller gears, at the same time.

I'd like to run more than 300 horsepower. Is there a stronger tranny I can use?
Yes. Both the 915 and 930 tranny can be modified for use in the 914. The 915 transaxle, from the 911 model cars, is good for about 450 hp. The 930 tranny, from the 911 turbo models, can be used in street applications up to 700 hp. However, it is much cheaper to run the stock tranny and keep your horsepower down to about 300. Trust me, you'll still feel like you're driving a rocket! But, if you have your heart set on that high performance 600 hp engine, then, we can definitely set you up with a tranny to handle the power. For a Tech Article and prices, click here.

Can I make my car smog legal?
Definitely. In fact, we highly recommend it. Smog laws vary from state to state, so we suggest you check the state and local laws in your area regarding engine swaps before beginning your conversion.

A note to California residents: Currently, California emission regulations require 1976 and newer cars to undergo a mandatory smog inspection. This means, the 1975 and earlier 914's (and 911's) are exempt from any emissions testing!

How much will my car weigh after I do the conversion?
A typical V-8 914 will weigh 2400 lbs. (for models with the non-rubber bumpers). Since the weight is added in the middle of the car, the additional weight is not much of a factor...your car will still handle great! However, it will be a lot more fun with the added ponies.

The 914 looks so dated, is there anything I can do to give it a more updated look?
Definitely. There are a number of body kits available for the 914. This particular body style lends itself well to the many body kits that are out there. You can do something subtle, such as add flared or 916 style fenders and bumpers. Or, you can go to the extreme and completely transform the appearance with a full body kit.

What kind of performance can I expect out of my converted 914?
Typically, a 914 with a 300 hp Chevy V-8 will produce excellent results. 0-60 times should be around 4.5 seconds. 1/4 mile times should be in the mid 12 second range. These figures can be achieved without spinning your tires or abusing the clutch.

The following two price summaries provide typical parts and supply costs associated with converting a 914 to V8 power. The first list, "The Open Budget," provides typical costs for a high-end conversion, using all new or completely rebuilt components. All parts on this list may be purchased from Renegade. Conversions via this method, will facilitate a high quality, reliable sports car, and will require the least amount of time. The second list, entitled "The Tight Budget," reflects typical costs on the extreme low end. In this cost scenario, the engine kit is the only component purchased from Renegade. The tight budget route will require more time to procure and install parts. Also, some custom fabrication may be required. However, this list demonstrates that a reliable, daily driven 914 V8, can be built for under $3,000. You may opt to select components from both lists.

914 V8 Conversion (The Open Budget)

$1,800 BASIC 914 V8 CONVERSION KIT
$325 9" CLUTCH UPGRADE
$995 COMPLETE COOLING SYSTEM
$110 RADIATOR HOSE
$3,000 CHEVY V8 PERFORMANCE ENGINE: Rebuilt with accessories.
$239 STARTER: High torque, light weight, gear reduction type.
$300 CUSTOM HEADERS
$300 CUSTOM EXHAUST SYSTEM
$170 200# REAR SPRINGS
$190 ENGINE WIRING HARNESS
$340 WIRING SUPPLIES, GAUGES, SENDERS, TACH RECALIBRATION
$140 AIR CLEANER, HOSE, STRAPS, AND MISC. HARDWARE
$7,909 TOTAL
914 V8 Conversion (The Tight Budget)

$1,800 BASIC 914 V8 CONVERSION KIT
RADIATOR COMPONENTS:
$50 Used Camaro Radiator, 3 or 4 Row, from dismantler (good for about 200HP)
$80 Fans, used Nissan Sentra or equivalent, from dismantler
$100 Hose, i.e. Gates Green Stripe 11' of 1-1/4" and 13' of 1" and clamps
$50 Misc. Sheet Metal and Hardware to install radiator assy.
$500 ENGINE: Used, in good condition, complete w/ accessories (Must be low power)
$75 STARTER: Late 911 1.5hp, Used, from Porsche dismantler.
$125 EXHAUST SYSTEM: Using stock manifolds, from muffler shop.
$100 REAR SPRINGS: From after market source.
$40 WIRING HARDWARE: To wire engine and radiator fans.
$25 Water Temperature Gauge and Sender
$2,945 TOTAL
The preceding lists are provided as examples only, and serve to provide you with an estimate of cost you can expect to incur. There are additional options, which may be added to either list, such as air conditioning, heating, 911/930 transaxle and suspension. Whatever your budget, we are positive our conversion kit (and other components) will enable you to build a very fast, reliable, and impressive car.

914 V8 Basic Conversion Kit ( picture )

$290 ADAPTER PLATE: Adapts the Chevy V8 engine to the Porsche transaxle. Machined from 6061 T6, aircraft grade billet aluminum. ( picture )
$215 FLYWHEEL: Machined from a forged steel VW flywheel. Includes ring gear. (See below for recommended upgrades.)
$155 PRESSURE PLATE: High performance, 200 mm., 2700 lb. Fine for use with mild V8 engines. Capable of holding up to 225 hp. However, we highly recommend the 9" clutch upgrade. (See below for recommended upgrades.)
$145 THROW OUT BEARING: Special custom made bearing designed to work with our pressure plate.
$40 CLUTCH DISC: 200mm., semi-rigid organic faced. Ensures smooth engagement. (See below for recommended upgrades.)
$75 PILOT BEARING: Machined steel bushing with needle bearing insert.
$40 CLUTCH THROW EXTENDER: Fabricated from steel. Gives greater travel to pressure plate. Enables proper clutch operation. (Not needed with 9" clutch upgrade. See below.)
$275 MOTOR MOUNT: Mounts the engine to the chassis. Bolts the original 914 motor mount locations in the chassis. One piece welded steel construction. Epoxy powder coated.
$60 TRANSAXLE MOUNTS: Allows engine and transaxle assembly to be relocated 1 ¼" rearward. This provides additional clearance between the front of the engine and the firewall. ( Tech Article )
$335 WATER PUMP AND ASSEMBLY: Remote mounted water pump assembly mounts to the side of the engine and is belt driven from the harmonic balancer, effectively shortening the overall engine length by approximately 5". Features our Renegade custom, cast aluminum housing, utilizing an aluminum Chrysler style big block impeller. Includes adjustable billet mounting plate, pulley, and coolant fittings. The flow rate of this pump is comparable to many high performance Chevrolet pumps. (Replacement impeller for custom housing = $99.00)
$80 COOLANT INLET PLATES & FITTINGS: Machined from billet aluminum. Bolts to the front of the block where the stock water pump was located. Includes ¾" 90-degree fittings. Priced per pair.
$13 HOSE: 4ft. of 1" I.D. Gates Green Stripe hose. Connects the water pump to the coolant inlet fittings.
$80 ALTERNATOR BRACKET: Machined from billet aluminum. Allows for mounting of a common Chevrolet style alternator on the opposite side of the motor from water pump.
$80 THERMOSTAT HOUSING: Machined from billet aluminum. Includes a 1" 90 deg. hose fitting for return to the radiator.
$75 COOLANT FILLER NECK: Mounts in-line on the firewall next to the engine. This becomes the highest point in the cooling system, thus allowing ease in filling, and burping of unwanted air. Has a 5/6" diameter overflow connection fitting. Accepts a normal 16 lb. radiator cap. Bracket for mounting is included. ( picture )
$115 HARMONIC BALANCER: Modified Chevrolet 6 cylinder balancer. Allows the alternator and water pump to drive directly without additional pulleys. Includes a crankshaft spacer.
$12.50 WATER PUMP BELT: Gates #7410.
$12.50 ALTERNATOR BELT: Gates #7355.
$2,033 TOTAL
$1,800 DISCOUNTED TOTAL (If purschased as a complete package)
Optional Parts For 914 Conversions

CLUTCH UPGRADES
While the standard clutch in our basic conversion package is OK for use with mild motors under 225HP, it will not withstand extreme driving conditions or bigger HP motors. Thus, we recommend upgrading to the following option:
$325* HIGH PERFORMANCE 9" CLUTCH UPGRADE: The largest clutch that the 914 bell housing can accommodate, will hold up to 400 hp in street usage. A very good investment and highly recommended. Includes a custom made Billet flywheel, Kevlar Sports clutch disc, and 228mm pressure plate.
PRICES IF PURCHASED SEPARATELY:
$275 FLYWHEEL (Add $45 for balancing if using 1986+ engine)
$195 KEVLAR SPORTS CLUTCH DISC
$259 HIGH PERFORMANCE 228MM PRESSURE PLATE
* Price for upgrade if purchased with engine kit
COOLING SYSTEM
Renegade offers an excellent, custom made, cooling system. This system is very complete system and ready to install. Typical normal operating temperatures will stay well below 200 degrees even in Vegas type heat.

$995 CUSTOM ALUMINUM RADIATOR ASSEMBLY: Installs in front trunk compartment. Includes a custom built, all aluminum radiator, high performance dual fan assembly with shrouding, pre-bent aluminum duct work, and all mounting hardware; partially assembled and pre-wired for ease of installation. Our radiator has proven itself as an excellent performer, even in extreme weather conditions. Properly installed, this radiator will keep your car running cool (180 - 210 deg.) guaranteed! If you have a radiator system from one of our competitors, this is a great cure and replacement. ( pictures )
$110 RADIATOR HOSE: High quality hose, Gates Green Stripe or equivalent. Routed from the radiator to the engine compartment in the recesses beneath the floor of the car; 1-1/4" I.D. from lower radiator to pump and 1" I.D. from upper radiator to the thermostat housing. Very reliable and durable for this application - will easily last several years.
$175 CUSTOM FRONT VALENCE: Custom fiberglass front valence. Assists with proper air intake into the radiator. While this piece is not mandatory, as you can modify the existing front bumper, it will aid in cooling due to its ideal design. Adapts to all model years. ( picture )
TRANSAXLE UPGRADES
The stock transaxle out of the 914 is perfectly usable in a V8 application. However, it will withstand only about 300-hp and 300 ft. lbs. of torque. (Note: Don't use first gear!) Also, the trans will probably not last long under abusive driving conditions. Thus, we offer upgrades to fit your engine and driving needs.

$2,000* REBUILT 914 TRANSAXLE WITH TALL GEARS: While your trans be used in stock from in a V8 application, rebuilding with taller gears provides better gear ratios for V8 powered cars. Your transaxle will be completely rebuilt**. We block off 1st gear, as it is a very weak gear and not needed for V8 applications, then we replace 3rd, 4th and 5th gears with taller gears. Your new 4 speed trans will have excellent gear ratios and terrific drivability. Cruising at 70 mph in the old 5th gear (now your new 4th gear) with the tall ratios, your rpm will be about 2,500 verses the 3,300 with the stock gears. Another advantage of the taller gears...your fuel economy will improve. You should gain at least 3 mpg. (NOTE: Trans shipped dry, without speedo drive, clutch fork, clutch pulley, backup light switch and pin. If early trans (pre '73) additional charge required for upgrade to the later side shift setup.)
(Inquire) REBUILT 915 TRANSAXLE**: Modified for mid-engine use with flipped ring gear. Holds 450 hp in street use. Other components required to adapt this trans for 914 use. Please request list of components required.
(Inquire) REBUILT 930 TRANSAXLE**: The trans from the 911 Turbo, completely rebuilt. We do extensive case modification to allow for flipping of the ring gear for mid engine applications. This trans is already equipped with excellent gear ratios for V8 use. The strongest trans available - capable of holding over 700 hp!
Core supplied must be rebuildable.

* Price with core exchange.
** Additional core charge, if applicable.
CUSTOM HEADERS ( picture )
$300 CUSTOM HEADERS - STANDARD: (Coated, add $150.00)
$475 CUSTOM HEADERS - STATES REQUIRING EMISSION EQUIPMENT
STARTERS ( picture )
A more powerful starter is necessary to start a V8 engine. Although a 911 1.5 hp starter can be utilized with very low compression V-8's typically under 200HP, our hi-torque, lightweight, gear reduction style starter is a much better option.

$239 HI-TORQUE STARTER: Modified gear reduction style Japanese starter. Has approximately 40% more power than the 911 starter with about ½ the weight. Weighs in at under 9 lbs.
$289 ULTRA HI-TORQUE, LIGHTWEIGHT STARTER (Stage III): Designed for ultra high performance engines exceeding 10.5 to 1 compression. If you have any doubt, this starter will do the job. With 80% more torque than the best Porsche starters, this monster will turn motors up to 13 to 1 compression.
ENGINE WIRING
The engine wiring for the 914 is not very complicated. It is, however, a bit time consuming. Renegade offers a complete engine wiring harness to plug into the factory 14 pin plug located in the engine bay. We essentially do all the messy work for you. Actually, we encourage you to install our complete harness on the motor before you lift the motor and trans assembly into the 914 engine bay. Then it's a simple plug-and-play electrical connection!

Our harness comes completely assembled with each wire color-coded to match our diagram. For AC cars, we have included the trigger for the compressor as well. (Please specify AC or non-AC so we may install the correct plug for the alternator.) Harness prepared for HEI ignition systems.

$195 WIRING HARNESS: With Porsche 14 pin plug, connectors, and diagram.
SENDING UNITS
YES, the stock temperature gauge and oil pressure light in your 914 factory gauge cluster can be utilized, but the sending units on the engine must be changed in order to work with the V8 setup.

$25 COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENDING UNIT: Customized VDO unit.
$45 OIL PRESSURE SENDING UNIT: Customized VDO unit.
AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING
Renegade offers a complete heater package and air conditioning components for 914 V8 conversion cars. Our A/C system ties into the dealer installed, under dash A/C unit. This is the only component from your original A/C system you will retain. All other components will be replaced with Renegade's A/C components. If your car was not originally equipped with A/C, you will also need an after-market under dash A/C evaporator unit.

$400*
$695** 		SERPENTINE - AC COMPRESSOR/ALTERNATOR BRACKET/SMOG PUMP MOUNT: Fabricated from billet aluminum. Includes all necessary hardware and belt tensioner.
$399 AFTER MARKET UNDER DASH A/C EVAPORATOR UNIT: (plus heater core) Features 2 directional air vents. This unit should serve to chill you out of your car.
$185 CONDENSER: (high flow) Mounts in front of the radiator, in typical fashion.
$85 RECEIVER DRYER
$345 A/C COMPRESSOR: New high quality compressor. Mounts to the above Renegade custom brackets. Very compact, lightweight and efficient.
$395 HEATER: Under dash heater core and fan assembly. This compact heater system mounts under the dash and circulates drivers compartment air. Water control valve and fan/temp controls included.
* Price if purchased as part of engine kit.
** Price if purchased separately.
SUSPENSION AND BRAKES
Stock 914s were equipped with insufficient braking power. This becomes an area of great concern when adding more horsepower to the car. Since most of your braking is done by the front calipers, the most effective way to stop better, is to install later model 911 front suspension and brakes. Most 911 SC or Carerra suspension is a direct bolt in replacement for the 914 suspension. The benefits of this swap are, substantially larger vented rotors and calipers, built in sway bar, larger torsion bars, and it also facilitates the change to 911 wheels and wider tires. These upgrades lead to much improved handling and dramatically greater braking ability. Also, 911s (911SC or newer) typically have less wear, and have generally been well maintained.

In the rear of the 914, we drill the hubs and rotors to accommodate the 911 5 bolt pattern to match the front, or we just drill the hubs and install new 911 rear rotors and calipers for even bigger stopping power.

We feel that upgrading your rear springs is a must. While upgrades to your shocks are not an absolute necessity, any upgrading you perform will definitely benefit handling and safety.

New to Renegade Hybrids: Big red four piston high performance brakes! For the latest information please give us a call or click here for more information.

(Market Price) USED 911 FRONT SUSPENSION: Complete 911 SC or newer front suspension. Includes struts, with rotors and calipers, control arms, cross member, sway bar, and rack and pinion. Subject to availability.
$190 each 5 BOLT HUB SERVICE: An economical way of converting to the five bolt wheel pattern on the rear of the car. Send us your brake rotors (in good condition) along with your rear hubs, and we will machine them for the 911 bolt pattern and install 911 wheel studs. ($160 each for hubs alone.)
$180 200# REAR SPRINGS: Very high quality springs custom made for the V8 application. Will last many years without sagging. (Sagging is a common problem with many after market springs.) We feel this upgrade is mandatory.
$320 BILSTEIN FRONT SHOCKS: While there are other quality shocks available, we feel Bilsteins will afford you the best handling and ride quality and offer the best features for 914 V8 use. No manual adjustments required - these shocks are self-adjusting for varying road surfaces.
$320 BILSTEIN REAR SHOCKS: Same advantages as the front shock listed above, however, the rear shocks are also height adjustable. A great feature!
CV JOINTS AND AXLES
The weakest link in the 914 drive line is the CV joint. It can break without any warning and leave you stranded. While the 914 transaxle will withstand as much as 300+ ft. lbs. of torque, the 914 stock axles are only good to about 250 FPT at best. When you finally get accustomed to all that new power, and before you get stranded far from home, consider our complete high performance axle kits for your 914. Included are (4) new high performance CV joints, (4) new boots with retainer rings, (4) custom adapter flanges, (2) powder coated remanufactured axles, new hardware, and even two packets of grease!

$599 HIGH PERFORMANCE AXLE KITS: Good up to 500 hp! Sold per pair. ( picture )
CHASSIS STIFFENING / BUSHING UPGRADES
With the added horsepower, weight, and abuses that your car is now subject to, the common problem of chassis flex may arise. To cure this condition, we offer chassis stiffening kits.

$175 CHASSIS STIFFENING KIT: 16 gauge stamped reinforcing plates weld in around rear suspension area to prevent flex. Helps to eliminate camber and toe changes during hard cornering. (Welding required.)
$160 BOXED ARM KIT: Pre-formed control arm stiffeners to fit over your stock control arms and weld into place. These stiffeners dramatically reduce the amount of flex in the rear control arms during hard cornering. The control arm bushings should also be replaced at this time, as they are usually worn out and can easily be damaged from the intense heat of welding.
$85 POLYGRAPHITE CONTROL ARM BUSHINGS: Replace your stock, worn rubber bushings with stronger polygraphite bushings. More resistant to deflection than rubber. Keeps the control arm in its intended position to help maintain correct alignment settings.
(Inquire) ROLLER BEARING CONTROL ARM BUSHINGS: For extreme road and race applications this beneficial upgrade will help with "rear steer" in a 914 chassis. ( picture )
ALSO AVAILABLE
(Inquire) Bolt in roll bars and weld in roll cages. (Installed in our facility in Vegas)
(Inquire) Complete in house conversion services including ground up restoration high performance upgrades, and even complete race-prepped cars.
BODY KITS AND UPGRADES
From mild to wild - many kits and upgrades are available to suit your taste. 916 flares are a common upgrade for those who want a subtle change. Or full body kits could transform the entire appearance of your 914. Inquire about references/sources.

A Few More Terrific Accessories From Renegade

$429 each 914 CUSTOM SPORT SEATS: Core required. ( pictures )
$369 each 914 CUSTOM TOURING SEATS: Core required. ( pictures )
$145 914 CUSTOM 3-INCH STEERING WHEEL ADAPTER/SPACER: For Momo, some Dino, and Grant type wheels.
(Inquire) 914 CUSTOM VDO GAUGES: Made to order.
$349 914 CUSTOM REAR WING
$399 914 CUSTOM FRONT NOSE Bumper/valance.
Ordering Terms