The 912 behaved itself impeccably, apart from blowing out some oil on the exhaust system following a thrash to get to the ferry etc. This I put down to over-filling after a quick oil change at Del Mallett's the night before setting off to Dover. Once the oil level had dropped to normal, no more oil leaks. For the rest of the way, it used about a litre of oil, which can't be bad. Fuel economy with regular 70–80mph cruising was in the high-20s, so happy with that, too.
Was nervous about 80mph cruising with an engine of uncertain heritage, but it reputedly had a top-end overhaul (guides, valves etc) not long ago. The fact that it used no excessive amounts of oil, or showed any signs of over-heating, no oil light flickering at idle, etc, suggested all was indeed OK.
Only problem I had was that at the very first fuel stop on way back (10kms out from show), I found the rear r/h brake had been binding, resulting in a very hot wheel. Hmmm, what to do? In the best Seume tradition, decided to carry on and see what happened. At next stop, wheel was stone cold, so I think the handbrake shoes on that side had stuck to the drum with the damp. Everything all OK after that.
Even got the fuel gauge working the day before I left – the float contacts had been dislodged and no longer made regular contact with the wires in the sender. Had the same problem in my 914/6, so knew what to expect.
Car attracted fair bit of attention and looked nice when the sun was shining, so i guess unless i get a stupid offer, I'll be keeping it for a while! Already got some 5.5x15s lined up for it, and bought a Momo wheel at Bad Camberg – just need some decent seats and 50mm taken out of the ride height!
Great news KS, sounds like the trip was just the ticket. I'm using mine daily right now and I love it too 