Thanks to Tom Perazzo, I discovered that one of my front lower trailing arms (aka suspension lever) was bent. Anything over .008″ is considered bent. Mine measured .010″ in one plane and .018 in another. Also have a cracked bearing race on a different arm.
While searching for a good used replacement, I found there were two different part numbers listed in Porsche PDF Parts catalog. One covering A / B cars, and a separate one for the C. I also got some input suggesting that the B and C were the same.
* 644-341-023-01 356B
* 695-341-995-00 356C
Because I was curious, and wanted to know what my options were, I did some research. I think I have found that both answers are right. 🙂
Apparently, in isolation the arms themselves are the same (A / B, and C). The difference in part number is due to the C having a short needle bearing race installed. Whereas the A / B arms have a double-width race.
Another possible option was to repair (i.e., bend) the existing one back into alignment. I contacted Ron Chuck Engineering, whom recommended on 356 Registry for fixing bent suspension arms. He has reportedly done thousands. Has the measuring tools, full machine shop, etc. I told him what I had and asked if he could fix it. He said he could get it closer to spec, but wouldn’t bother with it if it was his car. He thought most were slightly out of spec and that you probably couldn’t tell a difference driving unless things got close to 1/8” inch out. Which is obviously a LARGE margin. Was quite friendly and could have easily taken my money. FWIW.
