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.

2006 987 Boxster base.

Today | 2006 | Boxster | Electrical

Good evening Pedro,I'm upgrading the taillights to LED's.It's seems I need to change the existing turn signal relay to an LED model.I went online and saw some scary pictures of the two fuse boxes hanging down on top of each other. OUCH! Is my turn signal relay in another bus above the main fuse holder bus?If so what is the best way to get to the relay without causing other issues on this old car? I may have to invoke the old saw "IF IT AIN'T BROKE...D ...

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G50 grinds when upshifting to 3rd but only when transmission is warm

Sunday 07/14/2024 | 1987 | 911 Carrera Targa | Transmission/Clutch

My 1987 911's transmission grinds a bit when shifting from 2nd to 3rd but only when the transmission is warm. (The PO had the same issue when he bought the car new in 1986 and the dealer replaced the syncros. The problem persisted after I bought the car in 1997 so I had my Indy attempt repair: replaced syncos, fluid change and bled clutch but no change). Over the years I've learned to upshift very slowly once the xmsn is warm but still a nuisance. Any clues? ...

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upon purchase passenger side had a circular cable above the window which was broken. I think its purpose is to keep the finish of the headliner and top correct. My dealer has had my car since 6/26/2024. Any advice is appreciated.

Saturday 07/13/2024 | 2013 | Boxster S | Other

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putting a 4L 997 gt3 spec motor into a 2006 Porsche Boxster S -

Saturday 07/13/2024 | 2006 | Boxster S | Performance Modifications

Is there any article about someone who has done this?A car is being sold with this modification. what are key things to look for?other modifications:With receipts and pictures.Lsd transmissionGt3 fuel pumpsGt3 adjustable control arms READ ANSWER

Squeal at Cold Start when AC is engaged

Friday 07/12/2024 | 1994 | 968 | Engine

A while back my 968 developed a loud squeal for the first few minutes from a cold start. This was originally noticed not long after my AC compressor was replaced. I sent that compressor back and got a replacement, it squealed also. The obvious thought it, it's the compressor, but 2 in a row makes that less obvious. This squeal vanishes a few minutes after the cold start. The AC performs great. When I had the car in for another job at the local Porsche dealer, the ...

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Spark plugs/ and new packs

Friday 07/12/2024 | 2006 | Boxster | Engine

I've got about 25 k on the sparks and more on the packs.About 8 years time wise.Is OEM still the best? Or can I get more performance from something else. I've heard recommendations for Iridium plugs by NGK .Are there any upgrades on the packs over OEM?My engine has an X pipe on the exhaust tips, a tune, bigger throttle body, IPD plenum, and hi performance intake filters.No Headers/ 200 cell cats...yet. ...

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(1) Best idle speed / RPMs for 1970 Porsche 911t 2.2 Zenith "oem" carbs & (2) Recommended Octane Gasoline

Friday 07/12/2024 | 1970 | 911T | Engine

(1) My 1970 911T is set to idle at around 1100 RPM. While this seems OK - isn't the official RPM around 850 RPM -- "warmed up" or when reaching operating temperature? My mech said 1000 is acceptable. Personally, it seems after car is initially warmed-up after a couple of minutes, it's less prone to stalling at 1000 +/- vs 850. Any insight on this? (2) Also - I'm using premium fuel (91 Octane) - is this a waste of $? I don't see a performance difference. I used to go to a ...

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1971 911 current flow diagram

Thursday 07/11/2024 | 1971 | 911T | Electrical

Ed, do you have a current flow diagram for a 1971 911? I'm trying to wire up a turn signal/headlight control and I'm chasing down the white and yellow headlight wires. I've run into this symbol for the yellow wire and I don't understand (see image). Does it indicate the junction to the fuse panel? If I had the current flow diagram I think it would be a help. As reference, I'm installing a 911 column and controls on my 1971 914. I'm nearly done and all ...

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Angle of approach and departure

Wednesday 07/10/2024 | 2012 | Cayman | Suspension

I recently purchased a home in which our driveway is located on a road with a downward slope. The community has underground drainage so I have an incline going into my driveway which acts as a curb to keep water from entering. To make matters worse, the house sits lower than to road so the drive has a bit of a crown where it goes down towards the garage. I'm considering getting a 987.2 or 981 BASE Cayman and trying to figure if I'm going to be able to get it in the driveway. I will get tempor ...

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my turbo froze. what should I replace it with?

Wednesday 07/10/2024 | 1986 | 944 Turbo | Engine

the turbo has been rebuilt at least once and I would like to replace it with a new one.I know there are different options. I have heard K27 is a good option.I don't want to put one in that could cause engine or other problems.What other work would you recommend doing to it when the turbo is replaced?I know water pump is one.This is a good runner, but it is not a looker so I don't want to do too much to it.Please let me knowhere is some recent w ...

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Can you recommend a reputable shop in Ocala, FL?

Wednesday 07/10/2024 | 2002 | Boxster S | Engine

I think I'm due for a clutch and I would like to do the IMS while at it. I'm looking for an experienced honest mechanic or shop in the Ocala, Florida area.

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the ignition switch mounting ring that attaches it to the dash is not working. after rotating it about two revolutions until tight it snaps right out of the ring when I twist the key to turn it on. It there a cure or replacement part available to solve the problem

Monday 07/08/2024 | 2005 | Boxster S | Other

The black ring that treads onto the ignition switch assembly has several small protrusions that are used to thread it onto the switch, but after reassembling it (the switch is inside the dash and the ring outside), it will not withstand the torque needed to twist the key on, and comes disconnected.Is there a replacement for this part with better mating threads, or a better solution?

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Got the Head Liner Droop Blues - 2018 Cayman S - Any insight on tricks and hacks to a fix for a drooping ceiling fabric in a 2018 Cayman S. I am presuming Porsche is not owning up to a poor glue decision in production ?

Monday 07/08/2024 | 2018 | 718 Cayman S | Interior/Upholstery

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Changing transmission mounts on my 2000 Boxster S. What is the best procedure for removing the bracket holding the mount on the passenger side? As you know it’s not the same as on the drivers side. Thanks!

Monday 07/08/2024 | 2000 | Boxster S | Other

Have tried to reach over the top of the transmission with no success.

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unable to fill fuel tank

Sunday 07/07/2024 | 2009 | Boxster | Fuel System

Can not fill fuel tank fully. Shuts off at about 3/4 full.

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Audio installation shops

Sunday 07/07/2024 | 1995 | 911 Carrera | Electronics

Looking for recommendations on audio installation shop. I have a porsche classic (pccm) radio I want to have installed in my 993. Thanks

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After installing PCCM+ I get a TPMS error, any ideas to fix this?

Sunday 07/07/2024 | 2008 | Cayman S | Electronics

I've tried re-learning and still no help. PCCM+ works perfectly with the Bose system, only issue is the TPMS error.

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I have three questions. See additional information below.

Saturday 07/06/2024 | 2000 | Boxster | Body

I have three questions.First is a follow-up to Panorama volume 806 Tech Q&A titled “2000 Boxster: Display”. I have the same issue in my digital clock/engine oil level gauge. Do I have to replace the entire instrument cluster or just the LCD? (This looks like a job for a professional.)Second, since I bought the car, it makes an intermittent singing sound which seems to come from the passenger side mirror. It does it at all speeds except very low speeds.&nb ...

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could you tell me the correct torque for the throw out bearing guide tube bolts ? thanks Pedro!

Thursday 07/04/2024 | 2003 | Boxster S | Transmission/Clutch

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Changing serpentine belt. Purchased the Porsche replacement from the local Porsche dealer….too short. Now informed the tensioner and idler rollers need to be replaced as the dimensions have changed…..ver $300.00 in parts. Needing a suggestion please

Thursday 07/04/2024 | 2000 | Boxster S | Engine

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where can I purchase the 2020 Cayman base maintenance schedule booklet

Thursday 07/04/2024 | 2020 | 718 Cayman | Other

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1970 911T speedo cable installation difficulty / replacement?

Monday 07/01/2024 | 1970 | 911T | Other

I recently had my 911T Speedo repaired at P A Speedometer (Bay Area). (MPH was fine - but ODO and Tripmeter didn't work). Probably broken internal plastic gears, They strongly recommended I replace my (old) current sheathed cable - as they predicted by looking at the cable seating -I could have future improper wear problems. (They did not see my car or cable - just the Speedo VDO Gauge they fixed), My VDO Speedo works incl ODO and tripmeter + reset. I believe they thought old ...

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For the past 2 years I have an intermitted issue with then car starting. This happens every so often. I will go to start the car and nothing happens, like a completely dead battery. I have had the car towed twice and already over $2K in attempt to fix by authorized Porsche dealer.

Monday 07/01/2024 | 1998 | 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet | Electrical

First they moved wires around under the dash and said they had this reported as a problem by Porsche. Then the latest was they replaced the ignition; it was bad as it look like some of the contacts had been burnt. After each repair the car would start every time for a month or two, making me think the problem was fixed. Then It would happen again. When it happens, I attempt starting by repeating the start cycle; sometimes after repeating it anywhere from 2-3 times and as many as a doze ...

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Intermediate shaft bearing replacement

Monday 07/01/2024 | 1997 | Boxster | Engine

Rear main seal is being replaced and I would like to have the IMS replaced with a DOF bearing. Where can I or the dealer get one? I think it would be the best solution. Dave Anderson

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I am having trouble getting my TPS system to reset after replacing the sending units.

Monday 07/01/2024 | 2008 | Cayman | Electronics

The car indicates that it is learning but this has not changed even though I have driven more than 200 miles. Any idea how I can remedy this problem?

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Is the tool roll and tools in a 964 Turbo the same as a 964 Cabriolet .Where could I purchase one for a 964 Turbo ?

Sunday 06/30/2024 | 1992 | 911 Turbo | Accessories

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Will 718 Carrera 20 inch wheels with Continental Tires- Front 8J20 ET 57-235/35/ZR20, Rear 10J20ET45-265/35/ZR20 fit my 2010 Boxter Base that now sports Michelin Pilot Sports Front 235/40ZR20 and Rear 265/40/ZR40

Sunday 06/30/2024 | 2010 | Boxster | Wheels and Tires

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Fog lights only come on with high beams

Friday 06/28/2024 | 1975 | 911 Carrera 2.7 (Euro) | Electrical

My fog lights only come on when my high beams are selected. Attached is a photo of how my fuse box is wired. It seems like it should be a simple fix. Any advice is much appreciated!

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What is the max tire size for a 1987 944NA with 15 inch wheels?

Thursday 06/27/2024 | 1987 | 944 | Wheels and Tires

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What print out report should I receive following a 4 Wheel alignments?

Thursday 06/27/2024 | 2015 | Cayman S | Suspension

Upon completion and asked for $550rate for the alignment, I was handeda color screen shot of only the frontwheels, without the before/after full colorreport that had NO pertinent info on my Porsche or my name or VIN.Is this screen shot standard documentation per Porsche NA serviceStandards?FYI - car was driven by a junior tech off the dealer lot to a Audi dealer using Their Hunter alignment equipment. ...

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Max tire size

Thursday 06/27/2024 | 1987 | 944 | Wheels and Tires

What is the maximum tire size for a 1987 944na

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I just bought a 1993 968 Cabriolet and don't have an Ownwer"s Manual. How do I open the trunk? the keys don't work. Do you have a manual I can download?

Thursday 06/27/2024 | 1993 | 968 Cabriolet | Other

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944S - Vibration / Rumble on deceleration from 60 to 50

Monday 06/24/2024 | 1988 | 944S | Other

Hi! I have a 1988 944S, that has what I can only describe as a driveline rumble most noticeable during deceleration in 5th gear from 60 to 50 MPH. It may also be heard in 4th, however it's harder to notice.It's most noticeable on deceleration, but can also be observed during acceleration - if I hold the throttle just so that it's "coasting" with no load in-gear, the noise disappears - as well as disappears when the clutch is pressed, and the car put in neutral. READ ANSWER

My CDR-210 is dying. Can it be saved?

Sunday 06/23/2024 | 1999 | 911 Carrera | Electrical

Hi, everyone. My 996 came with a CDR-210 head unit. Immediately after I start the car its power cuts in and out at a regular cadence. However, if you let the thing warm up (which is odd for a radio) it works properly. Fuses are fine, connections are fine, but the problem persists. I figure this is probably a 25-year-old CD player on its way out, but I'd hate to lose it. Is there any hope of saving it? Something I may have overlooked? Thanks. ...

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Why is my left tail light not working

Sunday 06/23/2024 | 1999 | 911 Carrera | Electrical

My right side tail light doesn’t work. I have replaced the bulb and the wiring harness in the rear and the headlight switch cluster in the car and neither attempt was successful. Does anyone have a recommendation on what to check next? Thanks.

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Is there a How To for this forum?

Saturday 06/22/2024 | 1994 | 968 | Other

OK, this is not a question about my car, it is a question about how this forum works. But there doesn't seem to be an input for generic questions. Case in point, I posted a question earlier, and I got what appears to be a clever solution. But there appears to be no way to post a follow-up. In this case my follow-up would just be a thanks. But it sure seems like there would be times when a follow-up question might be needed. Is there no way to respond to an answer, or, do I just not see ...

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1994 968 Instruent Cluster lights very dull

Saturday 06/22/2024 | 1994 | 968 | Electrical

My instrument cluster background lighting is almost nonexistent even with dimmer in the minimum dimming position. Warning and indicator lights are all working fine, it's just the background. The dimmer is functional, that is it does effect the brightness as changed from min to max. This issue is not in any particular location in the cluster, meaning the lighting is extremely dim everywhere from left to right across the full cluster (as opposed to a particular position, which I would interp ...

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What is the Fix for a PDK Fluid Leak from the 16 pin Connector in the Gear Case?

Friday 06/21/2024 | 2009 | 911 Carrera | Transmission/Clutch

The PDK is fully functional and operates as new. There have never been any fault codes or warning messages. It's a minor leak and is apparently a failed "O" ring. Is there a fix without taking the transmission out and separating the case?

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Porsche 981 trunk Porsche & Boxster emblem placement

Thursday 06/20/2024 | 2014 | Boxster | Other

Can anyone on this forum please send me a template as to where the Porsche & Boxster emblems are placed? The attached photo is what I'm looking for as far as the template. My local Porsche dealer does not do bodywork and their preferred Bodyshop does not have the factory template.Thanks much in advance!!

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Electrical problems

Thursday 06/20/2024 | 2000 | Boxster S | Electrical

About 2 months ago I became the owner of my first Porsche (Boxster S, 2000, manual.) I won her from a coparts auction for a steal and overall got very lucky. There are a few issues that are still persisting and I don't know where else to look so any suggestions are appreciated! All Fuses and Relays have been checked and replaced as needed, new alternator and serpentine belt put in, I just picked up a new battery today as well. This being said none of the actual issues have be ...

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troubleshooting for a sticky passenger side mirror

Tuesday 06/18/2024 | 2008 | Cayman S | Electrical

Looking for help with my passenger side power mirror. When I put my cayman in reverse the mirror rotates down as it should, but it has suddenly stopped coming back up into its' normal position when the car is put into back into drive. The adjustment knob on the driver side A pillar has stopped working for that mirror as well. It continues to rotate down every time it is placed in reverse, but it will not come back up either automatically or with the adjustment button. Any ideas on where to st ...

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I cannot get my radio / cd player to work since the battery’s failed. I supposedly have the code to enter when prompted, but it doesn’t work.

Monday 06/17/2024 | 1998 | Boxster | Electronics

I had the car to a local dealership, and a reputable Porsche repair shop, but neither could get the radio and CD player to work.Thank you for your help

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Upgrading 3.0 to 3.2 and wonder if 3.6 OEM Early heads will fit?

Monday 06/17/2024 | 1981 | 911 SC | Engine

I'm debating on returning it to original production model drive train but wonder if this combo would work and how the approximate increase would provide how much more +hp if it does fit the upgrade?Thank you.

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997.1 will not start. How do I troubleshoot to determine what is malfunctioning?

Sunday 06/16/2024 | 2008 | 911 Carrera S Cabriolet | Engine

997.1 will not start. New battery last week. When I turn the key all there is a single loud click. Tried to start with second key. All dash lights working normal. Charged battery to 100% with a charger; tried jumping with a second car. All results the same...one click.Recently had water pump replaced; brake fluid flushed; new air filter, new oil; new cabin air filter; drain holes cleaned.Durametric shows zero faults across all systems.The car ran fine ...

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BumpStops

Sunday 06/16/2024 | 2009 | Cayman | Suspension

Hello. I have a 09 Cayman base with only 41,900 miles and noticing all my bumps tops are disintegrating, but all the other suspension components however are in top shape. What will be the most economical way to replacing them? (they are inexpensive by themselves) Could it be done without having to take apart the entire suspension? Thanks kindly.

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Factory Bose radio won’t always turn on, screen shattered

Sunday 06/16/2024 | 2006 | 911 Carrera S Cabriolet | Electronics

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My 1978 Porsche 911SC Coupe came from the factory without air conditioning. Can I now install AC with all the components; like new compressor, refrigerant lines , etc..?

Saturday 06/15/2024 | 1978 | 911 SC | Other

Living in the hot weather in SW Florida I would like to install Air Conditioning in my 1978 Porsche 911SC Coupe, which came from the factory without Air Conditioning. Can I use factory parts or do I need to get after market components to get the job done on my early manufactured year Porsche? Thank you for your help! Tony Zarrella, 239-398-6800, email: tzarrella1@gmail.com

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Does anyone know the immobilizer is located in a 2006 997.1? I read that it is located under the seat. Not true.

Saturday 06/15/2024 | 2006 | 911 Carrera S | Electronics

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I can't turn the ignition key to the start position. Is it possible to remove the lock cyclinder and have it repaired by a locksmith?

Saturday 06/15/2024 | 2000 | Boxster S | Other

My car is not driven very often. When I've had this issue other times, I used powdered graphite and it would allow me to turn the key and start the car. This last time, I was almost stranded and had to wiggle the ignition key for a few minutes until it turned and the car started.

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200 cell cats vs stock 500 cell cats

Saturday 06/15/2024 | 2006 | Boxster | Performance Modifications

Thanks for your prompt response regarding the headlights.No one can answer this one:Changing the OEM 500 cell cats to the 200 cell Fab Speed imported from Germany units.I assume these new cats would work allow better exhaust flow and more HP without causing the higher noise levels. I have bolt on induction mods and the Fab Speed tune, which I believe begs for an exhaust mod of some sort.I also think the original cats probably aren't doing their job as well a ...

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