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Technical Q&A
Welcome to PCA's source of expert advice, where our PCA National Technical Committee experts answer your questions about all things technical.
Grinding feeling after rebuilding steering rack and pump
Monday 12/30/2024 | 1986 | 944 Turbo | Suspension
I removed and rebuilt the steering rack and PS pump on my 1986 944Turbo (5speed). After reinstalling, I can feel a grinding sensation from the steering wheel when turning that was not there before the work. Other than the feedback, the steering performs well. I purged the system and removed and disassembled the pump. All looks correct and I called Rennbay support to confirm. im thinking that the new rubber mounts for the rack are firmer than the old original ones which were swollen wit ...
READ ANSWERTips for Lost Parts Insurance Claim
Sunday 12/29/2024 | 1988 | 944 | Transmission/Clutch
I am looking to see if anyone has any experience or tips on how to best value older used Porsche parts that were lost in a fire that will be covered by ones homeowner insurance policy.I have accumulated a number of spare parts over the years for my 1988 944 like a couple of transaxles and cylinder head that I cannot run down and purchase at the dealers or a parts store t
READ ANSWERHow to trace a parasitic drain, Fuse # 11
Monday 12/23/2024 | 1988 | 944 Turbo S | Electronics
My car has a parasitic drain, which I isolated to the #11 fuse. Interior lights are on that fuse, I'm not sure what else. Is there any suggestion as to how to try to find and fix the problem? Is there a common failure that I might want to check first?
READ ANSWEROn cold start up engine vibrate
Sunday 12/22/2024 | 1987 | 944S | Engine
When car is cold engine vibrates ;feels like right side of engine, once car warms up it subside, it idle smoothly just under 9K.The car was smoke check ,and all leaks repaired. Read that if cooling fins on crankcase are below front cross member engine mounts need replacingfins ,is thier any truth to this? Thank You for your time,Regards Espo ...
READ ANSWERI have a 1986 Cab 911. I have the code numbers for the option on the hood but how do I find out the options the car has or is there a way to find this information.
Sunday 12/22/2024 | 1986 | 911 Carrera Cabriolet | Other
READ ANSWER2006 987 Boxster base. Exhaust/cats/headers
Friday 12/13/2024 | 2006 | Boxster | Performance Modifications
At 119K miles and 18 years, are my 500 cell cats degraded thru normal usage?I am considering relacing the Stock OEM exhaust headers with new 200 cell headers.Either Fab Speed or Soul make headers with 200 cell German catsWill changing them give me less restrictive exhaust flow and increase HP & torque?I have done some induction work ( IPD,throttle body, chip , Filter, X pipe) and they made a big difference in the car's performance, maybe 25 to 35 HP!Will ...
READ ANSWERI need recommendation for an independent porsche service shop in Royal Palm Beach floerida Area
Friday 12/13/2024 | 2017 | 718 Boxster | Electrical
I need some electrical and oil service in Royal Palm Beach Florida. Can you recommend an independent service shop in my Area zip code 33411.Thanks
READ ANSWERvery rough idle and driving. are cylinder head gaskets prone to failure around cylinder #2 ? If it is rings, do I have to replace all pistons or just #2?
Thursday 12/12/2024 | 1988 | 911 Carrera Targa | Engine
rough idle and performance. felt like engine was firing on less than 6 cylinders. had it towed to a Porsche independent repair facility who reported 155 psi from all cylinders except #2. also #2 has an 80% leak down.
READ ANSWERWhich oil to use Mobil 1 with C40 or A40.
Wednesday 12/11/2024 | 2019 | 718 Boxster | Engine
I have a (new to me) 2019 Boxster with the 2.0 engine. I’ve read conflicting information, even per the manual about whether or not to use Mobil 1 0W-40 ESP X3 or Mobil 1 0W-40 ESP X4. They have a different recommendation (A40 vs C40) and I cannot find anything specific in all the blogs and in the manual specific to the 2019 MY. Please advise if possible. Thank you.
READ ANSWEROn cold start up engine vibrate
Wednesday 12/11/2024 | 1987 | 944S | Engine
On cold starts engine vibrate,once engine warms up it fine,as long as revs are 950,. Smoke tested engine repaired all vacuum leaks ,still have slight virbration on Idle, Reading blogs is thier any truth in ,if your crankase cooling fins are below crossmember, motor mounts are shot. The exhust side is the one thats needs to be change ,pricy whats your take on replacing just that side..Car is not race just a sunday driver,man and machine ! Thank ...
READ ANSWERI installed new audio Head Unit in my 2010, 987.2 Boxter. Re wired all speakers. Head Unit works well, however, car cranks but doesn't fire. I smell gas at the tail pipe so I am thinking its not a fuel issue? I did cut all the wires at the rear soundbar including the red wire that powers the Bose sub amp. Other than those the only wires touched were the speaker wires and the red/green Constant power wire. e
Wednesday 12/11/2024 | 2010 | Boxster | Engine
Code reader doesn't read any errors and dash says PSM Failure
READ ANSWERWhat hardtop will fit my Boxster S ?
Tuesday 12/10/2024 | 2008 | Boxster S | Accessories
Looking to see if a 996 hardtop would fit my 2008 boxster S ? Thanks for your help.
READ ANSWERFront end rebuild?
Sunday 12/08/2024 | 1985 | 911 Carrera Cabriolet | Suspension
My 1985 911 Cab with 52,000 miles has developed sloppy steering with an excessive amount of squeaking coming from the front suspension. The only updates completed to date on front end were a pair of new struts and an alignment 4 years ago. The shop which did the alignment did not mention wear to the front suspension. I am preparing to replace the A arm and sway bar bushings. Should I also install new tie rods even though the pair currently in the car seem fine and is there anything els ...
READ ANSWERwarning light is on
Sunday 12/08/2024 | 1987 | 944 Turbo | Electrical
I have an issue with check oil light. The light would come on intermittently over the past several years and now it comes on and stays on all the time. The oil level is fine I check each time I start the car. I have replaced the level sensor in the oil pan, with no change. I now believe that it is either a ground, which I don't know where to find it or a solder joint in the instrument panel, don't know where to look to find it either. It may be neither but your guidance will be greatly apprec ...
READ ANSWERLiqui-Moly vs Mobil 1, which to use? I’ve been using Liqui Moly for the last three years as thats what the Porsche mechanic I go to recommended. Spirited driving and little track use.
Saturday 12/07/2024 | 2013 | Boxster S | Other
I know I may be splitting hairs here as both are excellent oils but I’m kind of curious.
READ ANSWERManual transmission grinds in 5th and 6th gears until up to temperature and then everything is fine
Wednesday 12/04/2024 | 2006 | 911 Carrera S Cabriolet | Transmission/Clutch
READ ANSWERHeadlights do not turn on
Wednesday 12/04/2024 | 1984 | 911 Carrera | Electrical
at position 2 with engine on, only Auxillary lights turn on - headlight does not turn on. Then when high beam (turn signal wand) pulled on the high beam only flashes and a squirt of water comes out on but no regular headlights.
READ ANSWERAnyone have a failure on 981 Boxster brake booster vacuum pump?
Sunday 12/01/2024 | 2013 | Boxster S | Brakes
I heard mine break, Fortunately I was in a parking lot. Unfortunately I was 600 miles from home,
READ ANSWERIssues with backlights in instrument cluster.
Saturday 11/30/2024 | 2013 | Boxster S | Electronics
The instrument cluster backlights aren't on unless the headlights are on. On overcast days the tach and speedo are unreadable (especially with white digits on a very light grey background). Even with the headlights on the backlights are very dim - Yes, they're turned all the way up.1) Is there a way to code the backlights to be on without the headlights being on?2) Is there a coding option to make the backlights brighter or is the instrument cluster defective?Thanks ! ...
READ ANSWER911 40th has a yellowed front headlight lens - How to repair?
Friday 11/29/2024 | 2004 | 911 40th Anniversary | Body
READ ANSWERTiptronic doesn’t manually shift
Friday 11/29/2024 | 2004 | 911 Turbo | Transmission/Clutch
Put shifter in manual mode and tried to shift with paddle shift buttons. Will not shift manually
READ ANSWERWhat is the best product or treatment for rust prevention when repainting?
Wednesday 11/27/2024 | 1968 | 911S Targa | Body
S European car I bought in 1975 at small independent lot near Stuttgart. Showed 60k Kilometers on odometer (probably more). Imported and was daily driver (around 15k kilometers per yr, repainted in late 80;s) until mid 90's. Stored, indoors, but not climate controlled It was. mechanically restored -- engine, brakes, steering, suspension etc 2016-17, and front and rear body pans and rockers 2020. The paint is showing areas of blistering,actually more like a rash, paint is not broken, there ...
READ ANSWERCannot open passenger side door
Wednesday 11/27/2024 | 1999 | 911 Carrera | Body
I cannot open the door from the inside or outside, so I cannot remove the door card to diagnose and repair the problem. I suspect it is mechanical, not electrical. Any suggestions on how to get it open?Thanks,Charles
READ ANSWERI have 95,000 miles on her. The engine will be out to replace variocam pads. I believe the solenoids are working properly. Should they be replaced anyway?
Wednesday 11/27/2024 | 2002 | Boxster | Engine
READ ANSWERJUSt an FYI, I just called my local Porsche dealer (Irvine Porsche) to inquire about a spare key for my 2006 997,1 I was quoted $950 !!!! I also purchased an after market key on Ebay, but can't find anyone who can progtram it. Any suggestions??
Tuesday 11/26/2024 | 2006 | 911 Carrera S | Electronics
READ ANSWERFollow up to my “Suspension Problem.”
Tuesday 11/26/2024 | 1968 | 911L | Suspension
Do you have a name or part number or where I can get a part number for the previously mentioned bushing I need. Both arms to sway bar may need to be replaced because they were dragging on the street as I drove home. Any suggestions on where to buy all these parts, please?Thank you for your help?Mark
READ ANSWERTurn signal doesn't self cancel
Monday 11/25/2024 | 1994 | 968 | Cables and Controls
The turn signal doesn't cancel when the steering wheel straightens up. Also the turn signal doesnt make a clicking sound to let me know it is still indicating a turn. Do I need to invest in a complete Steering Column Combination Switch? The only one I find available states for cars with headlamp washer system. My car doesnt have headlight washers.
READ ANSWEROil Leak from Balance Shaft Cover
Monday 11/25/2024 | 1994 | 968 | Engine
There is a slight oil leak from the balance shaft cover. I can't tell if it is from the lower rear bolt or the cover itself. Can the cover be removed without removing the engine? There is little space between the engine, chassis, and engine mounts. Any tips on repair and sealant?
READ ANSWERWhere to buy the clear engine cover?
Monday 11/25/2024 | 2006 | Cayman S | Accessories
I have a 2006 Cayman S and I want to buy a clear engine cover like the one Essy Fariab has on his Cayman R featured in the November 2024 Panorama issue. I’ve not been able to locate a supplier and I’m asking for some help locating a source.
READ ANSWERSuspension problem
Sunday 11/24/2024 | 1968 | 911L | Suspension
I notice two arms hanging down just below the engine. One on the right and one on the left. Apparently something broke off. What happened and what do I need to do? Please see the picture included.
READ ANSWERWhere is the horn fuse for a 2010 911 Cabriolet?
Sunday 11/24/2024 | 2010 | 911 Carrera Cabriolet | Electrical
My horn keeps honking on its own. I need to pull the fuse so I can drive it to a shop.
READ ANSWER(4) I have replaced the muffler with a Fabspeed and removed the Cat with a thru pipe. What DME do you recommend?
Saturday 11/23/2024 | 1988 | 911 Carrera Targa | Electronics
READ ANSWER(3) what is the procedure to replace the DME
Saturday 11/23/2024 | 1988 | 911 Carrera Targa | Electronics
READ ANSWER(2) How do I know if I have a 24 or 28 pin DME
Saturday 11/23/2024 | 1988 | 911 Carrera Targa | Electronics
READ ANSWERPower steering fluid for 964
Saturday 11/23/2024 | 1990 | 911 Carrera 2 | Other
The ownere manual recomends using Dextron ATF fluid for power steering system. The current fluid is clear(not red like Dextron).Some sources recommned Pentosin CHF 202, Suggestions?
READ ANSWERWhat are trunk tag option codes L78 & L79 on a 1986 944 Turbo?
Friday 11/22/2024 | 1986 | 944 Turbo | Other
Trunk Tag in the Vehicle States : C02, L78, L79, 425, 454, 533, 650, 983According to VIN Porsche says : C02, 018, 139, 158, 220, 340, 341, 383, 387, 395, 425, 454, 533, 650, 983Are L78 & L79 some early production package codes?Thank you,Mark
READ ANSWERWhat's included in the X51 package? Is it compatible to my car?
Thursday 11/21/2024 | 2016 | Boxster Spyder | Performance Modifications
READ ANSWERI would like to up Grade my D2S headlight bulbs to LED, any suggestions would be helpful.
Thursday 11/21/2024 | 2003 | 911 Carrera | Electrical
READ ANSWERSteering wheel in locked position and cannot relieve steering
Wednesday 11/20/2024 | 2007 | Cayman S | Electrical
Error message on dash "relieve steering" but can't get it to unlock and car won't start.
READ ANSWERWhwn downshifting from 2nd to 1st I get a clunking noise (not always) from my PDK transmittion. It seems to only happen when downshifitng to 1st. What cause this, is it problematic and what is the fix?
Wednesday 11/20/2024 | 2014 | Boxster | Transmission/Clutch
READ ANSWERalcantara whhel for 997.2s
Tuesday 11/19/2024 | 2009 | 911 Carrera S | Interior/Upholstery
is there an alcantara cover that fits my 997.2S with pdk and standard steering wheel?
READ ANSWERInstrument cluster and rear spoiler issues with my 2004 C4S
Tuesday 11/19/2024 | 2004 | 911 Carrera 4S | Electronics
Hi everyone- new Porsche owner here....I recently inherited a 2004 C4S with about 21,000 miles on it that has been sitting for about 6-7 years. It starts right up and drives fine, but I have quite a few issues with the instrument cluster.READ ANSWER
What do I use to thoroughly clean my convertible top? Headlight question - I don’t understand a problem with my ‘89 944 n/a headlights, when opening and closing. Sometimes when I turn them on, they won’t pop up. If I then immediately turn off the light switch, the headlights initiate their complete open/close cycle and quickly park normally. My current solution when this problem occurs, is to turn off the lights immediately, but then as they start their open/close cycle, turn the light switch back on quickly (during the opening sequenc ... Can I drive my 1999 Carrera without the engine snorkel? I hear a noise, grinding from the front suspension, steering and shudder through the steering wheel. Only upon initially moving from still. This is the only time that I hear this noise, after initial takeoff it doesn't present itself from that point on. Hello !A very loud rattle has developed in base of passenger side seat. My techs at Rennewerk Porsche, Elmsford are not really the right people to search for, and fix, rattles but they told me the sound is coming from the rail area and the seat will have to be removed then taken apart to find the issue. They added that the worn part which is most likely making the noise is no longer made and not available.My 911 Carrera is a cabriolet so I expect some noise from the chassis bu ... Is it necessary to install circuit dampers for installation of Sylvania Zevo 7556CW LED’s to replace backup bulbs in a 2K 996? As a note, I installed these a couple of, (low mileage), years ago and all seemed workable without the circuit dampers. Recently, they stopped working and I tested the circuit from switch, (good), to rearward loom connection and had good voltage to that. I put the OE bulbs back in, but still nothing. I have other duties in life presently, but wondered how to ... Good Morning,I have owned my Boxster S for about 4 months. Recently, I have noticed on a cold/first start, that after about 10 seconds the engine begins to idle rather rough, (almost starved for fuel) for about 8 seconds, then resumes normal idle without issue. The car also runs very well, so I see no issues with performance when I am driving the vehicle. When this occurs, there are no warning lights that come up on the dash, thus I have been reluctant to scan for any ...
Clean convertible top
Monday 11/18/2024
| 1999 |
911 Carrera Cabriolet |
Other
Headlight problem where perodically, they won't pop open.
Monday 11/18/2024
| 1989 |
944 |
Other
Is the 1999 engine snorkel nessary
Monday 11/18/2024
| 1999 |
911 Carrera Cabriolet |
Engine
I hear a noise, grinding from the front suspension, steering. Only upon initially moving from still.
Monday 11/18/2024
| 2017 |
718 Cayman S |
Suspension
Rattle passenger side seat
Monday 11/18/2024
| 2005 |
911 Carrera |
Interior/Upholstery
LED Bulb replacement
Sunday 11/17/2024
| 2000 |
911 Carrera Cabriolet |
Accessories
I have 2010 Boxter Base with a dead battery and a locked frunk. Tried the fuse box jumper method with the new battery and also a battery charger both to no avail. Could I try a battery tender with a cigarette lighter adapter or what else can I do to get in the frunk
Sunday 11/17/2024
| 2010 |
Boxster |
Electrical
READ ANSWER
rough idle on a cold start of the engine
Sunday 11/17/2024
| 2002 |
Boxster S |
Engine