Hey Nic,
Good job on the suspension. Don't be nervous under the hood, even though it looks like a bad science project, the Germans sure built this one right, and it can handle a lot of off- tuning over time from lack of maintenence. I Hope your engine is running like a well tuned sewing machine, however if it is not there are several things that can be done (timing chain, adjusting start of fuel delivery, changing fuel,air filters, adjusting the fuel metering screw) all of these things make a noticable difference in power, idle, sound(quiet). So pop the hood and start with simple procedures (air filter, fuel filter, oil change) YOU CAN DO IT! I recently priced out the above procedures from my local independant, just under $1000.00. I have spent $150.00 in tools and parts that have accomplished the same procedures, and I know it has been done right, engine runs like it was new, very gratifying!
I always make the run in the fall to McClellanville for Oysters and boiled peanuts, the best around! Good luck! let me know if I can help. Steve S.