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.

repair of ragtop cut

Thursday 07/25/2024 | 2007 | 911 Carrera S | Other

The transport trucker (EKS Express Inc through Montway) cut my rag top. There are 2 , 1cm cuts dead center oriented front to back. Should I glue this or sew it shut?

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Thoughts on brake system flush!

Thursday 07/25/2024 | 2004 | 911 Carrera 4S | Brakes

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How effective is the 1972 911S front spoiler?

Tuesday 07/23/2024 | 1968 | 911S Targa | Body

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I Live in Jacksonville FL. What should I expect to pay to have two convertible hydraulic cylinders/rams for my 2001 911 Carrera Cabriolet. Both started leaking and now the top is inoperable.

Monday 07/22/2024 | 2001 | 911 Carrera Cabriolet | Other

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Shocks and springs upgrade

Wednesday 07/17/2024 | 2009 | 911 Carrera S Cabriolet | Suspension

Recently purchased, love the car but want a more comfortable ride. I will not be tracking this car. It appears to me that mods "Bilstien" are all for a stiffer ride or am I missing something? Curious as to what you all have done shocks springs and if you like the results...Thx in advance

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2006 987 Boxster base.

Monday 07/15/2024 | 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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Can I put ceramic brake pads on my existing Calipers

Thursday 07/11/2024 | 2011 | 911 Carrera S | Brakes

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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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Unexplained rattle in front suspension

Monday 07/08/2024 | 1999 | 911 Carrera | Suspension

I have an unexplained rattle in the front suspension. I'm familiar with finding tie rod problems and wheel bearing problems. I've had my car on my QuickJack and cannot find anything loose or clicking. I recently had the front end aligned at the dealer and asked them to inspect the front suspension. They found a bad tie rod bushing and replaced it. The rattle is still there. I'm baffled. I have a great video of the car rolling on a slight down hill road with the rattle undisturbed by ot ...

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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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My 2005 997 with 68000 miles occasionally will send a check engine light due to a single or multiple cylinders misfire after sitting for 5 or 6 weeks.The engine runs fine after the small hiccup and shows no problems after light is cleared.There is no sign of a misfire when started on a regular basis.Any idea what is causing this?

Friday 07/05/2024 | 2005 | 911 Carrera | Engine

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What to use to reattach leather to A-pillar?

Friday 07/05/2024 | 2005 | 911 Carrera | Interior/Upholstery

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I have a alarm beeping every 30-45 seconds when the car is unlocked and not running

Thursday 07/04/2024 | 2008 | 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet | Electronics

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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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Do members have any recommendations re the central muffler by-pass process or moderate to medium sound improvement? Thank you.

Tuesday 07/02/2024 | 2009 | 911 Carrera S Cabriolet | Performance Modifications

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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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OBD2 Scanners? Does anyone have a recommendation for 2003 cars?

Sunday 06/30/2024 | 2003 | 911 Carrera | Electronics

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How do I get my I Phone to play music on my PCM System which has blue tooth

Sunday 06/30/2024 | 2011 | 911 Carrera S | Electronics

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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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Stone guard company suggestions

Friday 06/28/2024 | 2009 | 911 Carrera S | Body

Looking for rear wheel stone guard suggestions. so many vendors curious if there are better ones than others. Was thinking a black carbon fiber look for a light colored car.

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What would cause this type of damage to an LCD screen?

Friday 06/28/2024 | 2007 | 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet | Electronics

What would cause this type of damage to the LCD screen?? The seller is saying it's faded from the sun but I'm not buying it.

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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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