1960 Porsche Spyder RS 60 Spare Parts List

Restoring a 1960 Porsche Spyder RS 60 is a rewarding but challenging project. These lightweight race cars were built in limited numbers, and finding the right spare parts is critical to maintaining authenticity and performance. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the essential spare parts for the RS 60, covering major systems and components. Whether you are a collector or a restorer, this list will help you identify what you need and where to focus your search.

Engine and Drivetrain Parts

The 1960 RS 60 is powered by a 1.6-liter flat-four engine (type 547/3) that produces around 115 horsepower. Many parts are specific to this model and can be hard to source.

Engine Block and Cylinder Heads

• Crankcase halves: Only original Porsche parts will fit. Look for used or NOS (new old stock) cases.
• Cylinder barrels and pistons: The RS 60 uses special Mahle barrels with integral fins. Reproductions are available from sources like Vintage Porsche Parts.
• Cylinder heads: Heads with dual spark plug holes are unique to the 547/3 engine. Ensure the valve guides and seats are in good condition.
• Valves and springs: Sodium-filled exhaust valves were used. Modern replacements are available from specialist suppliers.

Fuel and Ignition System

• Weber carburetors: The RS 60 originally used twin Weber 40 DCOE or 48 DCOE carbs. Rebuild kits and new carburetors are available.
• Distributor: Bosch 050 or 063 distributors with mechanical advance. Points and condensers are still stocked.
• Fuel pump: Mechanical fuel pump (type 616) can be rebuilt or replaced with a new unit.

Clutch and Flywheel

• Clutch disc and pressure plate: Single dry plate clutch assembly. Aftermarket options exist from Sachs or LUK.
• Flywheel: Lightweight flywheel with starter ring gear. Original parts are hard to find; reproduction flywheels are offered by specialized vendors.

Transmission and Gearbox

The RS 60 uses a rear-mounted 4-speed manual gearbox (type 741). Many internal parts are shared with later 356 models but some are unique.

• Transmission case: Magnesium case prone to cracking. NOS or used cases are the only options.
• Gears and synchros: First and second gear synchro hubs are weak points. Replace with modern upgraded parts from firms like California Import Parts.
• Shift linkage: Ball-and-socket joints wear out. Full linkage kits are available.
• Axles and CV joints: The RS 60 uses swing axles, not CV joints. Look for rebuildable axle tubes and new rubber boots.

Suspension and Steering

The RS 60 has a torsion bar suspension with A-arms at the front and swing axles at the rear. Many parts are shared with the 356 Carrera.

• Torsion bars: Front and rear bars are specific to the RS 60. Aftermarket bars with different rates exist for racing.
• Shock absorbers: Koni or Bilstein shocks were often fitted. Replace with period-correct units from Koni or modern counterparts.
• Ball joints and bushings: Lower ball joints are no longer stocked by Porsche. Polyurethane bushings are a practical upgrade.
• Steering box: ZF or Gemmer steering boxes. Rebuild with new seals and bearings.

Brakes

• Drum brakes: The RS 60 originally had drum brakes at all four corners. Finned aluminum drums are specific and expensive. Replacement drums are available from Stoddard or SMC.
• Brake shoes and cylinders: Standard 356-type shoes fit. Wheel cylinders can be honed or replaced.
• Master cylinder: Single-circuit master cylinder. Upgrade to dual-circuit for safety using a Wilwood or Girling unit.

Body and Exterior

The RS 60’s body is aluminum and fiberglass, with a lightweight roadster design. Many panels are hand-formed.

Body Panels

• Front hood (lid): Fiberglass or aluminum reproductions are available.
• Doors and fenders: Original panels are nearly impossible to find. Reproduction steel or aluminum panels can be sourced from specialists like Sports Purpose.
• Cowl and firewall: Particularly prone to corrosion. Used parts from 356 Carreras can be adapted.

Glass and Trim

• Windshield: Flat glass with a slight curve. New windshields are made by several suppliers (e.g., Pilkington Classic).
• Weatherstrip: Complete rubber seal kits for doors, windows, and hood are available.
• Badges and emblems: Original RS 60 badges are rare and valuable. Reproduction badges are widely sold.

Interior and Accessories

Interior is minimalistic: bucket seats, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, and basic gauges.

• Seats: Lightweight aluminum or fiberglass bucket seats. Reproduction seats are made by various brands.
• Steering wheel: Nardi wood wheel was common. Reproductions are available.
• Gauges: VDO gauges for speed, tach, oil pressure, and temperature. Restored gauges or modern replicas fit.
• Carpet and upholstery: Period-correct wool carpets and leather are available from classic car upholstery shops.

Electrical System

The RS 60 uses a 6-volt electrical system with a generator. Many owners convert to 12 volts for reliability.

• Wiring harness: Original harnesses are brittle. New harnesses from suppliers like YnZ's Yesterday Parts match the factory layout.
• Generator and voltage regulator: Bosch generators can be rebuilt. Later alternator conversions are common.
• Battery: 6-volt battery from suppliers like Optima.
• Lighting: Headlight bulbs and lenses are standard 6-volt. Tail lights and turn signals are shared with other Porsches.

Final Recommendation

When sourcing parts for your 1960 Porsche Spyder RS 60, start by joining enthusiast communities like the Porsche 356 Registry or the RS Spyder Owners Group. For critical engine and transmission components, prioritize original or NOS parts from reputable dealers such as Stoddard, Sierra Madre Collection, or Eurotech Motorsports. For body panels and interior items, well-made reproductions are acceptable and often more affordable. Always inspect used parts carefully for cracks or wear. If you are building a car for concours judging, authenticity matters; for a driver, practical upgrades like dual-circuit brakes and 12-volt conversion are wise. With patience and the right network, you can keep your RS 60 on the road for years to come.