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.
Has anyone mounted the Falken Azenis FK510 tires on their Porsche Boxter or any other Porsche?? Wondering about this tire, good or bad??
Today | 2016 | Boxster S | Wheels and Tires
READ ANSWERWhy does Porsche not recommend anti-seize on spark plug threads? There must be a reason.
Sunday 03/09/2025 | 2014 | Cayman | Engine
READ ANSWERAre there modifications that can be made a 996.2 Tiptronic transmission
Thursday 03/06/2025 | 2003 | 911 Carrera Cabriolet | Transmission/Clutch
Is it possible to replace a 996 tiptronic transmission with a 968 tiptronic. Why? I prefer the 968 in full automatic mode because you can limit the top gear you drive in local traffic. The 996 spins up to top gear quickly and you’re cruisingalong at 1000 rpm’s.
READ ANSWER996 water pump failure has released broken impeller material into the cooling system. Is an engine tear down necessary.
Wednesday 03/05/2025 | 2001 | 911 Carrera Cabriolet | Engine
My 2001 996 water pump has failed releasing impeller debris into the water system.The failure was identified by a heavy coolant leak.I am concerned about the possibility of the debris causing damage by blocking passages, causing hot spots, etc.Is there any way to flush the debris out of the system or is an engine removal and strip inevitable?
READ ANSWERWhere to hook up smoke tester 944 Turbo S
Tuesday 03/04/2025 | 1988 | 944 Turbo S | Engine
I think my Turbo s has a vacuum leak. Can someone please advise me where to insert my smoke tester output tube on the car?ThanksTC
READ ANSWERDo I require a Code for Radio after changing 2006 Boxster Battery?
Monday 03/03/2025 | 2006 | Boxster S | Electronics
READ ANSWERHVAC blower fan has stopped working.
Monday 03/03/2025 | 2014 | Cayman | Heating and Ventilation
What are the steps of a diagnostic procedure to discover if the problem is with the blower fan and/or the blower resistor?
READ ANSWERHas anyone had issues with Rennkit eRam Kit?
Sunday 03/02/2025 | 2007 | 911 Turbo | Performance Modifications
I have a 2007 Turbo with the Rennkit eRam Kit for the spoiler in replace of the oem hydraulic system. Recently, I have been having issues where my eRam kit gets stuck in the up position on one side or it won't go up at all. I took it apart and lubricated the internals which worked for a little bit but again I'm running into issues. Has anyone run into issues with this eRam Kit?
READ ANSWERSignificant Oil Smoke at the exhaust under the slightest load
Sunday 03/02/2025 | 1983 | 911 SC | Engine
After driving about 10 miles at very moderate speed, with the engine warmed up and oil level correct i stopped at a traffic light. When the light turned green i accelerated away however in the rear view mirror the cloud of blue oil smoke was huge. Immediately stopped and had the car towed home. if i idle the car it doesn't smoke, pushing the accelerator it smokes heavily. Oil level is now over 1 quart low. Any suggestions on what the cause may be? ...
READ ANSWERI do not drive my 2006 911 4 enough to keep the battery charged. Would like a recommendation for a reasonable priced trickle charger
Sunday 03/02/2025 | 2006 | 911 Carrera 4 | Electrical
READ ANSWERMy battery won't take a charge
Sunday 03/02/2025 | 2002 | 911 Carrera | Electrical
My battery won't take a charge
READ ANSWERTesting tail light voltage
Saturday 03/01/2025 | 2001 | Boxster S | Electrical
The rear fog light in my right tail light is out and I am trying to troubleshoot if the issue is in the wiring coming to the tail light or in the tail light bulb holder. All fuses are fine and I have replaced the bulb with one I know works, so this is where I am at. I unplugged the wiring harness connected to the tail light bulb holder, and with the headlights on, I am able to get 12.5v to the wire I believe is for the side marker light (GY/RD), however I get no voltage to the GY/WH wire that ...
READ ANSWERI recently watched the four part video series on bore scoring and I purchased a kit to analyze my oil. I would also like to start using the oil and fuel additives the two experts would recommend. Could you please tell me what they were?
Saturday 03/01/2025 | 2010 | 911 Turbo | Engine
I thought the series was very informative but also very scary! I do think you could have did a little better job of showing what oil, brand and viscosity, and fuel additives they would use to help maintain our engines.
READ ANSWERLooking to add an integrated Apple Carplay system to my 2014 Boxster S
Friday 02/28/2025 | 2014 | Boxster S | Electronics
Hi, new owner of a 2014 Boxster S. I'm looking for recommendations to upgrade my factory existing entertainment system (PCM radio with Nav). I believe this is a PCM3.1 model. I'm looking for any recommendations for an Apple CarPlay Auto integrated Module unit. Thank you.
READ ANSWER1970 911T Coupe driver's side door stay replacement
Friday 02/28/2025 | 1970 | 911T | Body
My 1970 911T coupe's (original) door stay strap makes a pop noise & moves a little when opening door - where it is connected to the car's body.I bought a replacement kit - door stay strap. It appears that my original strap where attached with a vertical pin has a tiny cotter pin at the bottom end (retaining the large pin)The replacement kit -includes a small circlip that slides on the vertical pin' bottom end where cotter pin was.
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Hankark
Friday 02/28/2025
| 2019 |
718 Cayman |
Other
How do I find local repair and service shops?
READ ANSWERI would like to put paddle shifters on my 01 996 tiptronic. Anyone done this or had this done? Looking for intel. Thank you.
Thursday 02/27/2025 | 2001 | 911 Carrera | Transmission/Clutch
READ ANSWERClimate Control Buttons Sticking/ Very hard to Press
Thursday 02/27/2025 | 2018 | 718 Boxster | Electronics
I recently purchased my 2018 Boxster, and it is clear that the prior owner had a spill from the cup holder. The climate control buttons on the passenger side are very sticky and difficult to press, and the buttons take a bit to return to their original position. I have used a Q-Tip and toothbrush to dap some rubbing alcohol along the button ridges, let the fluid get between the keys, and then take a toothbrush to get the bristles between the keys. Right afterward, the buttons are easier to p ...
READ ANSWERWinter Storage - Battery Charging
Thursday 02/27/2025 | 2014 | Boxster | Electrical
I store my Boxster during the winter months (November-April) in a 10x20 garage. Most 10x20 storage garages in my area (Des Moines, Iowa) do NOT have an electrical outlet inside the garage. I recently did find such a garage, However, it is not close to my home, and the monthly rates have increased 100% over the past year, and may be increased even more. I currently use a trickle charger connected to the electrical outlet. My Question is: Are there other options to store my Boxster in a stor ...
READ ANSWERWhere to connect smoke machine vacuum leak
Thursday 02/27/2025 | 1988 | 944 Turbo S | Engine
Hello: I need to smoke-test my 944 Turbo S to find a vacuum leak. Can someone please advise where I need to connect the smoker to achieve the best results? Thanks TC
READ ANSWERMy 2006 Carrera S almost impossible to shift from 1st to 2nd when cold. Even with judicious double clutching and rev matching. Lots of grinding, it Improves when warmer, but still really hard. Is this a shift cable issue or synchromesh or cables? Recent transmission flush by dealer six months ago
Thursday 02/27/2025 | 2006 | 911 Carrera S | Transmission/Clutch
It was only after the recommended transmission flush last summer that this became an issue when it got cold this winter. I think remember reading in one of the tech columns about shift tunnel bushings. My dealer (Porsche Warrington) doesn’t seem to be too well versed in the 997.1
READ ANSWERseat cushion refurbishment
Monday 02/24/2025 | 2007 | Boxster | Interior/Upholstery
best way to refurb the seat cushions, new insert from a vendor? hardly any cushion left
READ ANSWERI'm using 90 octane non-ethanol in my 1977 2.7. Should I be using an octane booster?
Monday 02/24/2025 | 1977 | 911S Targa | Fuel System
READ ANSWERDoes anyone know of a reputable upholstery place near east Los angeles.Angeles., montebello, pasadena.
Sunday 02/23/2025 | 2004 | 911 Carrera Cabriolet | Interior/Upholstery
New to porshe life. Have always loved them. My uncle and godfather are both porsche guys. Recently received one from my godparents. I've noticed, it's a whole lifestyle. Expensive, but fun. Glad to me part of something new
READ ANSWERAre you aware of any plans to produce a PCCM+ for use in an '09 Carrera 997.2 like the one they have for the 997.1?
Sunday 02/23/2025 | 2009 | 911 Carrera | Electronics
READ ANSWERTarga roof lock problem
Sunday 02/23/2025 | 1987 | 911 Carrera Targa | Body
Lock on Targa roof won't engage, the "roller cams" aren't locking when the handle is used to turn them into place. Perhaps it has become misaligned? Seems to only be one side.Thank you,-Bill Davis
READ ANSWERSteering wheel removal
Sunday 02/23/2025 | 2014 | Boxster | Interior/Upholstery
Any advice on removal of steering wheel. Planning to send out for re-wrap. No luck searching for you tube video. Car is in my garage. Seasonal storage. 3 week turnaround once steering wheel is shipped. Is a novice able to do this? Thanks!
READ ANSWERAre intake & exhaust valves the same in the 924 Turbo as the non-Turbo 924?
Saturday 02/22/2025 | 1980 | 924 Turbo | Engine
My 1980 924 Turbo needs its intake & exhaust valves replaced. I see conflicting information online: that the valves are the same as in a non-turbo 924, or the valves were larger or stronger for the Turbo. I found sources for 924 parts, but don't see anyone selling "924 Turbo" specific valves. I appreciate info so I order the right parts. There are two other items I also hope to confirm if the same in the Turbo: valve stem seals, and cam followers. Many thanks! ...
READ ANSWERHow to properly remove the steering wheel
Saturday 02/22/2025 | 2014 | Boxster | Other
I need to remove the steering wheel. I am sending it out to be re-wrapped. The car is in seasonal storage in my garage. It is a three week turnaround once the steering wheel is shipped. Looking for advice and or information how to properly remove the steering wheel. The steering wheel only has the heated control and paddle shifters. I have checked YouTube with negative results. Thanks
READ ANSWERTorque spec for 911 turbo valve covers
Friday 02/21/2025 | 1983 | 911 SC | Engine
I have had my valve covers off at least half dozen times. The last time I am having a bunch of leaks. I previously switched to the orange silicone gaskets and when they went on I had no leaks. Then I pulled engine to put in new clutch, adjust valves, install RS orings. When I put the covers back on they leaked. I have assembled and reassembled with some relief, but still small leak drivers side. Believe it or not I am looking high and low for the actual factory torque spec for the Turbo cover ...
READ ANSWER987.1 m96.21 3.4L engine swap to 997 m97.1 3.8L
Wednesday 02/19/2025 | 2008 | Cayman S | Engine
Bought the car with the #4 cylinder broken. It has a TPC Racing turbo installed. Wondering if I should get LN Engineering to sleeve the current engine or install a used 3.8L. Cost for used 3.4L and 3.8L are about the same. Other using the 3.4 harness, making room for the taller intake, and bringing over the water distribution tube, will the bigger engine work?
READ ANSWERhow to fix collapsed clutch pedal
Monday 02/17/2025 | 1988 | 911 Carrera Cabriolet | Transmission/Clutch
READ ANSWERWhat are the minimum piston ring gaps for the MA1 engine? The factory workshop manual lists the maximum gaps but not the minimums.
Monday 02/17/2025 | 2015 | Cayman S | Engine
READ ANSWERAny alternatives for spare tire?
Sunday 02/16/2025 | 1987 | 944 Turbo | Wheels and Tires
Worried that the original spare tire is not trustworthy and curious as to any alternatives out there (i have 17" wheels on my 1987 Turbo 944).thanks!!
READ ANSWERThere looks like a short in the circuit going through Fuse 11. What is the best way to find the short? Is there a common culprit?
Sunday 02/16/2025 | 1989 | 944 S2 | Electrical
My clock went dark a month ago and I thought the worst. I rarely drive this car on the sinter. But today I noticed that the interior lights, clock, etc. - all that goes through Fuse 11 were out. I checked the fuse, and it had blown. I tried replacing it in case it just had gotten old. It immediately popped as I was putting it in. Not even sure how to start looking without disassembling the dash. Suggestions would be welcome ...
READ ANSWERengine control warning
Sunday 02/16/2025 | 2016 | Boxster S | Electronics
What causes the engine control warning to come on?
READ ANSWERAny alternatives for spare tire?
Sunday 02/16/2025 | 1987 | 944 Turbo | Wheels and Tires
Worried that the original spare tire is not trustworthy and curious as to any alternatives out there (i have 17" wheels on my 1987 Turbo 944).thanks!!
READ ANSWEREngine bay fan don't shut off come on when the car is hot
Saturday 02/15/2025 | 2009 | 911 Carrera | Electrical
I changed relay and engine temp sensor car not overheating
READ ANSWERHow to restore electrical power
Friday 02/14/2025 | 2001 | 911 Carrera Cabriolet | Electrical
I have an '88 924S and an '01 996 and three other vehicles, all with the same 'unique' problem. Parked/stored (with battery tenders) for from 2 weeks to 7 months, within the past couple weeks, I have turned the key in each vehicle and absolutely nothing happens. No indicator lights, no open-door dinging, no gauge activation.Batteries all show 12+ volts at the cables; ( I know about corrosion between the post and cable clamp ) even connecting a lithium battery-booster to the ...
READ ANSWERWhat could cause an intermittent Popping or Clicking noise under car while driving similar to the pinging of a hot heat exchanger after turning it off?
Tuesday 02/11/2025 | 1984 | 911 Carrera | Engine
While driving I hear an intermittent popping or grinding noise from under the car. I just had a new set of tires put on and brakes look ok. It Has new tie rods.Any common issues that I should check first?Torsion Bars, shocks, emergency brake, brackets, bushings, etc?
READ ANSWER986 Headlight Switch
Tuesday 02/11/2025 | 1999 | Boxster | Electrical
Can anyone explain how the parking lights, left or right side as the knob indicates, are activated? Also, the fog lamps, is the switch supposed to stay extended and not snap back in to the console? Are the front and back fogs controlled independently, or do they work together when switched on?
READ ANSWERIt sounds like engine belt sequels when starting engine
Tuesday 02/11/2025 | 2007 | Boxster S | Other
The center section of passenger seat is puckered like it’s been heat damaged
READ ANSWERWhat repair should I make on seat center section
Tuesday 02/11/2025 | 2007 | Boxster S | Interior/Upholstery
The center section of passenger seat is puckered like it’s been heat damaged
READ ANSWERHow to set the date on a 997
Monday 02/10/2025 | 2008 | 911 Carrera Cabriolet | Other
My 997 displays the correct time, but a wrong date. I cannot find a way to fix that. I see options to change MM/DD/YYYY preference, but I cannot change the actual year numbers anywhere.It's always 2005. Please help, thanks
READ ANSWERLooking for someone near Imlay City Michigan that can do a valve adjustment 3.0L air cooled with out A/C
Monday 02/10/2025 | 1981 | 911 SC Targa | Engine
READ ANSWERHas anyone tried to reprogram their electric steering to get more road feel?
Monday 02/10/2025 | 2016 | Cayman GTS | Performance Modifications
I’ve read about retuning steering by activating GT3 steering to give more feel and feedback in steering for 981 Cayman. I’m thinking this would help for AutoX. I’d like to know if anyone has experience with this and how did they like it.
READ ANSWERConvertible top makes noise when opening & closing. Does something need to be lubed?
Friday 02/07/2025 | 2005 | Boxster S | Other
READ ANSWERIn regard to a hose next to my battery
Friday 02/07/2025 | 1998 | 911 Carrera 4S | Accessories
few days ago I replace my battery on my 98 993 C4S and I found a clear hose I dangling next to the battery with one end going in to the fender and other end is lose. Could you please tell me where this hose go? Thanks if you need a picture I could send it to you also.
READ ANSWERCayman R springs on a base 2009 Cayman?
Thursday 02/06/2025 | 2009 | Cayman | Suspension
Hello, I am looking to install Cayman R springs on my 2009 base non-pasm manual Cayman. Will this be a direct fit? Do I need any other parts to make this install happen?Can anyone recommend me a suspension shop in Socal (im in La Mirada) that can install it for me? Preferably a shop that has done 987.2 Cayman suspension before.
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