What did you do with your 996 today?

What have you done with your 996 recently? As on other similar threads this can be used to tell everyone what you have been up to or anything to do with your 996, with or without photos. I'll kick off with where my wife and I were the weekend before last with ours. We had a superb long weekend in the New Forest. The main purpose was to visit the Beaulieu Motor Museum on the Sunday for the Simply Porsche event. We had three nights in a small hotel in Lyndhurst and as well as picking a weekend when the weather was fantastic we also happened to pick the same hotel that a group from Scotland were staying at. So in the small carpark there were three 911's and two Boxters! Lyndhurst also had a Ferrari and Maserati garage where some time was happily spent! I would definitely recommend the Beaulieu event next year for all those that missed 2014. Cheaper to get in than normal for exhibitors and with a special and very convenient area to park on the grass. There were lots of all types of Porsche cars lined up in a very pleasant setting. After walking around the cars we were able to visit the motor museum and then get a high level monorail to visit the historic house at the other end of the grounds. Walked back through the gardens. A perfect day out. Other days included a visit to Mottisfont Abbey and Hilliers Gardens near Romsey and also lunch overlooking the harbour at Lymington. Some views of the weekend. [/URL][/IMG] [/URL][/IMG] [/right][/center]

Great idea Bring it on

It's ok you can borrow our idea from the 944 forum. It is a good idea though and it's nice to see a 44 on your first post. [ ]

Glad Colin from the 944 forum didn't mind me pinching their idea. As its said, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Went to the Witney Motor show last night and joined others from R31 Cotswolds in displaying our cars. 7 x 911's and 2 Boxters turned up. A very pleasant evening. Good weather and there were many interesting cars and motorbikes there. Alan and Fiona joint RO's had put up the regional marquee and supplied some (soft) drinks etc Here's a link to Alan's photo (getting good a pinching the work of others[ ] ) Anyone who has a 996 or other Porsche and lives Cotswolds/West Oxfordshire way would probably enjoy coming to a monthly R31 meeting and/or other events the RO is organising. Booked the 996 in for an MOT on 11 July. It will be the first in my ownership, so fingers crossed for a not too expensive pass on the day!

I borrowed the idea from Rennlist. But it is popular on the 944 forum and a great addition to yours. Happy Porsche ing !

Making good use of the car this week before its MOT tomorrow. On Sunday went to the american style Cherry Pie Diner at Buckland for a breakfast meet with other Porsche club members. As we were leaving a group of Corvettes arrived and the possibility of a joint drive was floated. Yesterday evening was the R31 monthly meeting at Carpenters Arms in Fulbrook, Cotswolds. Several new cars/members including a white Spyder and a 991 cabriolet. An enjoyable evening and gloriously sunny for open air driving. See pic of a few of the cars at the pub. [/URL][/img]

spring clean up and swept my chimneys. Bead blast then a bit of high temp paint. [/URL][/img]

Good looking pipes Richard. Mine don't llike that. MOT passed today. Just needed a bit of a new brake pipe and headlight adjustment. I was so pleased I treated it to an aircon regas! Many thanks to Autocare Express in Witney who sorted it all out on the day. Got it home and also treated it to a wash and polish for the weekend. Next weekend its Poole and Sherborne Castle for the events there. Lets hope for good weather.

The 996 took my wife and I down to the south coast over the weekend. Good display of Porsches on the quay at Poole on Friday night and then on the Sunday off to Classics at the Castle at Sherborne where we were surprised at the large size of this meeting. [/URL][/img]

Locking wheel Nuts make me have sleepless nights, Its either this or a Baby Cam. I was going to turn on lathe a small post with a split pin through the top if you can picture that? instead as a quick option, Magnet out of an old hard drive. Boba Fett oversaw the whole operation.

Argh, now ill always no where she is. If your wondering why I'm holding a piece of wet n' dry its to stop the light blinding the camera.

"Locking wheel Nuts make me have sleepless nights, Its either this or a Baby Cam. I was going to turn on lathe a small post with a split pin through the top if you can picture that? instead as a quick option, Magnet out of an old hard drive. " Not sure I am following what you are talking about Can you explain please

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnet

Getting to know my new Turbo , i made her take some clothes off and reveal her underwear ! Giving her a good going over , cleaned and oiled . Bumper is away to be resprayed and Ventureshield Applied . Wire mesh for the vents ready to install etc Unable to add a pic . ?

Hi Jonny Glad you are enjoying your car. I try to use my 996 as much as possible and don't worry about the miles I'm putting on the clock. I just so enjoy driving it. I've used photobucket to put large sized images on my postings. Instructions are at http://www.porscheclubgbforum.com/tm.asp?m=263490

New Tewkesbury OPC open day. Weather was good so today we crossed the border from R31 and joined about 30 other PCGB members for what was an excellent day in Tewkesbury. Many thanks to Stuart and Elaine from R16 who arranged an open day at the new OPC. The staff were very welcoming and coffee and cake were provided. A particular mention goes to Leon Vitti who gave us all a tour and explanation of the site, and of the immaculate workshops and offices. He later judged the show n shine and made presentations to the winners. I've no doubt that Tewkesbury will be a safe place to either purchase your next car or leave your precious Porsche for servicing. Club members outside the new OPC [/URL][/img] A view from the upper level where engines will be worked on down to the immaculate tiled workshop. [/URL][/img]

Off to the Gold Cup at Oulton Park today in my Turbo. Looking forward to it and hope the rain stays away! Car then goes in next Monday for bumper, bonnet and wings to be resprayed and all minor chips and scuffs sorted, brake capilers refurbed and headlights refurbed, ready for its place on the Turbo stand, celebrating 40 years at Brands Hatch on sept 21st [ ]

I got up early and washed my 996 & my wife's Boxster then we both went off to meet up with 13 other 911s for breakfast in Brighton.

Looks fun, Im jealous about the breaky too.

An expensive week! Both rear tyres badly worn with a lot of feathering and needed replacing. Wheel alignment was badly out but also needed offside rear track control arm and wishbone replaced to correct this. The other side had been done a few years ago. Hopefully the next set of tyres will last a bit longer than 1600 miles!! On the other hand I had been very concerned that I would need a costly refurbish of the leather seats with the black leather looking rather worn and grey. When I was at a car show a few weeks ago there was a chap selling and demonstrating leather colour restorer and I thought I'd risk the grand sum of £12.99 on a tub of the stuff. Best £12.99 I've spent as with a bit of elbow grease to buff it up the result has been brilliant and probably saved me quite a bit. Went to the Register Rendezvous at Upton House on Saturday. A great turn out and some wonderful cars to see. See some photos from the house at twiiter https://twitter.com/UptonHouseNT NT insisted that drip trays were used for all cars. [/URL][/img]

A lap of Brands Hatch with loads of other Turbos!

Blimey some HDR on that, Nice Pic. That was Sunday gone was it not?

Yes - at the national event. Pleased with the HDR as it was only from a single shot (obviously!). Not a bad result.

Yes very good HDR effect from a single shot. Whats your kit and did you have a tripod? or is it a still from a DVR? (sorry for all the questions) I live fairly local but didn't even know about the day[&o]

I use a Nikon D800E and usually a tripod for the HDR stuff. The shot above was a single shot from a moving car and bit of Photomatix Pro post-processing.

well a little boring for some but very important. I gave the little C4S its annual service, oil, air and pollen filters, almost 2 gallon of mobil 1, 6 new plugs, a single coil pack and a dose of red x in the tank. Great result - off like a rocket again and set up for the winter, yes its used every day even in winter, sits outside day and night and does not miss a beat - brilliant engineering. And after the service a little jaunt out to give her a test drive - only went to the shop but ended up on a 200 mile bash of enjoyment and pleasureable driving.

Hi forgot to say - all serviced for a massive cost of;- £80 - 2 gallon Mobile 1 oil £36 - coil pack (only because I cracked one on the conecting block £36 - 6 spark plugs £8 - oil filter £10 - Air filter £12 - Pollen filter coper oil plug washer - freeby from local motorfactors £14 - Redex to dose the injection symstem Total £196 for a service on a Porsche 996 - priceless! - happy motoring Jolly - pedal to the metal.

Nothing exciting chaps - fit new rear shockers, springs and anti role bar bushes - what a difference! Front refit planned for next week end. Jolly[ ]

Nice run out to the coast yesterday for a long strole on the beach with the dog. Great drive out - Derby to Skegness 200 mile round trip - had some great driving.[8D] car [erformed faultlessly and as sure footed as the day it came out the factory. enjoying the dream

Weekly wash today to get rid of the daily grime It's not an issue as I get driving pleasure everyday😍 What about the rest of you?

The 911 has been having a rest in the garage while we had a holiday in Madeira. Now that would be a good place to drive the car, some superb winding roads up into the hills. Unfortunately there are no passenger/car ferries to the island and cars have to be freighted in. We did see several 911's while we were there and it really would be a good place to have an open top. There are also some really good classic car shows on the island. In May 2013 they closed off one of the main roads to allow all the cars to park and there were a surprising number of Porsches there. If you are going to the island it is well worth checking out if there is a show while you are there, or arranging your dates to coincide. [/URL][/img] Our 996 started up at first turn of the key after about 2 weeks of standing so took it for a blast but roads were rather mucky and now requires a good clean. About time it had a service and oil change, so that's next job to arrange, after I've taxed it. Looking forward to the Spring and some sunny weather.

Car all sparklingly clean again.😛[ ] Gave the gear shift a clean, wd40 and then greased it up too. Slick changes now. Also dropped some wd40 and followed by thin oil onto the hand brake cables, pays to keep them well oiled - car on a strap incline backwards to do this little maontenance job. All ready again for the coming week.😳

Had a few white wines when wrote this - haha lol.😃

Well here we are again! The gear lever proved too loose and kept missing third. Checked it out again and found all the plastic bushes were excessively worn [ ] Visit the nice man at Mr Porsche and ordered a new gear leaver unit. Got the PCGB discout but only 7% - better than nothing. Fitted it today and alls like factory now [ ] Brilliant, just £138 in total. Can't grumble as the cars done 91000 miles, good as new now. Happy days again. [8|]

An excellent day organised by Alan at Region 31. Six of us met just outside Burford (gateway to the Cotswolds) at 8.30am and drove in convoy to the Porsche Centre in Swindon where we met up with about another 20 for an open morning arranged by Alan. The centre laid on tea/coffee and pastries and showed us the workshop where several of our cars were put up on the ramps and given the type of once-over undertaken at services by their experienced staff. It was particularly interesting to be shown around the underside of a 996 and the technician tested and showed how they check the steering and other parts and was very helpful in pointing out common areas that needed attention, such as drain holes by the battery and on the plastic undertrays covering the brake pipies. In addition the car had all the rubbish that had collected by the radiators vaccumed out and the technician spent some time answering various questions on the car. Next time I'll try to get my car on the ramp, just wasn't quick enough volunteering it! As expected there were some superb cars in the showroom. A £160,000 911 turbo caught the eye of many but my favourite was a white 911 at just over half the price (see below). Better start saving. At lunchtime a convoy of 10 cars visted a local pub for lunch and the food was excellent. Good drive back and had a few opportunities to put my foot down a little just to hear the glorious noise from the sports exhaust. An excellent day out. Many thanks to Porsche Centre in Swindon and for RO 31 organiser Alan for arranging it. [/URL][/img] [/URL][/img]

Car went in for its 12k service a couple of days ago and was treated to new oil and oil filter with no unexpected work - all set, hopefully, for some good summer weather and many trips out and about. Now reached 107k but proving that a 911 works best when it is well used. Engine superb and exhaust sounding great - three cars, a caravan and motorhome will testify to this today as I passed them on the hill up to Stow on the Wold. Went on to Moreton-in-Marsh where met up with others from R31 outside the Porsche Club at Cornbury House for our "Tea Bun Run - around the cotswolds" With just over a dozen cars we made our way south towards Burford and on to Bampton where we had to make a detour from our planned route as Downton Abbey was being filmed. A few miles further on we parked up all together at Aston Pottery for coffee and cake in their superb cafe. Altogether a very great day despite some torrential showers (have to wash the car again!). Thanks to our RO for organising it. See photos in last entries on the page at https://www.porscheclubgb.com/forum/tm.asp?m=866757&mpage=2&key=

Took a trip to Packwood House (National Trust, Warwickshire) today, a round trip of 134 miles from our home in Aylesbury. A great mix of motorway (traffic light enough to use the cruise control) and twisty bits. Earlier in the week, we went to Ightham Mote in Kent, a longer round trip of 187 miles. On both occasions we were glad of the air con, especially in the inevitable delays on the M25!

What wonderful weather today and great company as I and some others from Cotswolds Region met about 20 members of South West Region at the Cotswold Gateway Hotel in Burford where they had been staying as part of their WOTY. In the sunshine at 10.15am we all set off in convoy for a leisurely drive west on the A40 passing through the cotswold village of Northleach on to Andoversford where we turned north and drove up through Stow-on-the-Wold and continued up to our HQ Cornbury House in Moreton-in-Marsh for the Pirelli BBQ. Much praise and thanks to Pirelli and the Club for putting on such a great BBQ and arranging for the fantastic weather. About 20 cars from the French Porsche Owners Club were also in attendance at the BBQ and had brought with them some superb vehicles. They were staying at the Heythrop Park Hotel which is a luxury estate set in over 400 acres. After the BBQ quite a few of us drove back with them to the hotel where the french were allowed to park in front of the house for a photoshoot rather in the normal car park (me and one other sneaked in on the end of the line - afraid their photos are going to show a couple of GB plates in their line up!) Some photos of the day below. [/URL][/img] [/URL][/img] [/URL][/img] [/URL][/img]

Me and my 996t cab joined the PCGB! Looking forward to some events.

As part of the euro roadtrip preparations, gave the underside a clean up with an oily rag and replaced the seized handbrake shoes on the rear, so hopefully the petrol consumption might improve a bit!. Also ran a diagnostic check as the water temp light occassionally flashes after a high speed run and found the water temp sensor to be indicating 118 degrees when cold! So a quick call to Porsche Cambrideg and the sensor (£14 plus VAT) should be here next week for fitting.

Busy few weekends recently. Chatsworth Porsche Pageant [/URL][/img] [link=http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/odo2/media/20150705_100223_zpshxevp0xc.jpg.html] [/link] [/URL][/img][link=http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/odo2/media/20150705_125636_zpsngifcxrl.jpg.html] [/link] [/URL][/img][link=http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/odo2/media/20150705_133810_zpsyhvjz1bt.jpg.html] [/link] Cotswold Classic Car Club Gathering near Andoversford. [/URL][/img][link=http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/odo2/media/20150719_142213_zpsnwxqcv6m.jpg.html] [/link] [link=http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/odo2/media/Cotswold%20Classic%20Car%20Club%20Gathering_zpsjpp0qfyt.jpg.html] [/link] [/URL][/img] [/URL][/img][link=http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/odo2/media/20150719_114314_zpslmzlm4nx.jpg.html] [/link] Lydiard Park Auto and Retro Festival [/URL][/img][link=http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/odo2/media/DSCN4293_zps9ugcxazd.jpg.html] [/link] [/URL][/img][link=http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/odo2/media/Lydiard%20Park%201_zpsyl5ie5sa.jpg.html] [/link] [/URL][/img][link=http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/odo2/media/Lydiard%20Park%203_zps7uf0cwr3.jpg.html] [/link] Exclusive to my 996. Fully adjustable to keep cups level on slopes - the tray I made! [/URL][/img][link=http://s1375.photobucket.com/user/odo2/media/20150725_151748_zpsfa4rzlk7.jpg.html] [/link]

Had the air con radiators replaced, charged the battery (slow starting) replaced missing bolt on nearside rear brace,ordered a new key the previous owner lost it replaced front under tray, its getting there.

Been up to me old tricks on this one, air condensers fitted and re gassed, under trays fitted, new bolt fitted to the brace at the rear (QUITE INPORTANT). I was quite worried to work on this one but the designers really thought about taking it apart it is so easy to take most of the body work apart took me 2.5 hours its the first car I actually enjoyed taking apart. The only issue I had before was replacing the two plugs nearest to the back of the car probably took me around two hours, that only because I had never done it before, but I know how to now. Then I started ripping the thing apart in the body shop for the body work. Bumpers, sills, door lock, wing mirror all off. Cleaned out radiators with the air line. Cleaned the whole of the underneath (got filthy doing this) de scabbed and treated frame around the rads with rust treatment. Waxed everywhere I could and lubricated everything I could. Bought all new bolts to refit the body kit.

Removed my headlight beam deflectors, then Motd her. Pass!

Alan and Fiona the RO's of Region 31 organised another of their excellent "Tea Bun Runs". About a dozen cars met outside the POCGB clubhouse and then went for a drive through the Cotswolds to Aston Pottery where much tea and cake was consumed. I was near the back of the convoy and took an unfortunate detour for a couple of miles down a narrow single lane muddy road. A couple of cars followed me and I expect they will be needing to wash their cars thoroughly tomorrow! Never mind, we didn't encounter any tractors coming the other way and got to Aston to find we weren't the last anyway, some others having got a little lost as well. A pic of the cars parked up around the back of the Pottery. [attachment=20150830_Tea bun Run Aston Pottery.jpg]

My first ever DIY oil-change on the 996. 10L( in car, 1 spare) of 10W-50 Millers CFS NanoDrive (£106) and Porsche Filter, sump plug and filter washers (£24) the only cost except for: Had to buy a 8mm Hex driver (allen key) too, but a one-off. Got the drip-tray (actually an old baby bath!) and carriage bottle (old wine-fermenting kit) from the scrappy for £1 each. Really simple procedure and very rewarding. Hardest thing to do was getting the jack under the car! I recommend it to all of you (well maybe not the ladies); makes you feel very manly Only scary bit is looking at the swarf in the old oil (should it be dark brown?). Car definitely runs better on the Millers; idles more smoothly and a slightly rough zone around 3000rpm is gone. Next up: clean the rads.

Mostly cried as my C4 started to misfire and then emitted a cloud of white smoke large enough to cover all three lanes of the M5. The dreaded d-chunk I think. Meaning there shall be plenty of weekends spent on the strip and rebuild.

Hope things are not that serious Anthony. Do keep us posted.

Nice one,it is very satisfying as you said I have just done mine with Mobile 1, it is fine at the moment and it's done 173000 miles, how many miles has yours done, this oil sounds great why did you choose to use Millers oil? Cheers Paul

Friday 4th September - Track Day at Blyton Park.

Hi Paul, I know the car has been run on Millers for most of its life and I believe many recommend sticking to the same type of oil throughout. Hartech recommend Millers NanoDrive for longevity (I think they insist on/use it in their service plan), so that's plenty good enough for me. Mind you, yours has done almost precisely 100,000 miles more than mine, so clearly Mobil 1 ("protection formula" now, is that right?) is fine, too. Out of interest, how often do you change your oil, Paul? When you do, is it quite a dark brown? Cheers. Russ

Might have had a spirited drive deep into Wales and then back. Almost no traffic at all, a lovely drive.

Thank You Andy, I'll keep a record repair progress for the forum when I get started on it. Shall have to lay it up for a short while though in the meantime whilst I finish of work on my 76' C3.

PCGB Croft trackday (yesterday) Excellent well organised, Fantastic fun, highly recommended [ ] If anyone knows my car from the past please drop me a line with any info cheers (owned for about a year )

Was it your first track day? I was parked to your left. Grey 996 cab. Watched you circulating! Heard an enthusiastic chap saying it was his first and how much he'd love it. I went round in the fancy golf, a green Cayman and the 3ltr lw. Great day out!

Hi, yes first trackday, really enjoyed it, admired your car in between sessions very nice indeed, on the search now for another car to continue with more regular trackdays, unfortunately cant really afford to through my Turbo at the scenery, so would of liked a 996 carrera 2 manual but suspect I will be more realistic & find a Boxster

My first week of ownership with only a drive home from the dealer to experience the sound and dynamics of the 996 last Wednesday. This early morning was first chance to drive for an hour or so from Berkshire on to Hampshire fabulous A roads (ignoring two motorways M4 / M3). Simply sublime! Rest of morning spent on 'detail' of car. Decided to work inside out for coming weeks. Fully cleaned leather dashboard, door cards, steering wheel, gear stick & handbrake with Gliptone cleanser and conditioner - amazes me how much grime is removed from a relatively clean car! May order some black dye to restore some fade on steering wheel & gear stick. Other than that deep richness and suppleness restored. Next job seats, then rear.

Had the camber and toe set-up by Matt O'Hara at Spires in Warwick after he was recommended to me - many thanks to Pete Holden for doing so. Matt seems to really know his stuff and I watched the carefull attention to detail he gave the job. I had been having excessive rear tyre wear and the handling felt a bit "off" and twitchy on poor road surfaces. But driving back from Warwick along some roads I frequently use, the difference in handling was very noticeable. I won't put in print just how fast I was going but along one road I felt much more confident and the speedo showed I was comfortably doing 15mph higher than I normally drive at along that road. The other difference was that I happened to put my hand on the rear tyre (to check tread depth) and found that even after the 60 mile journey the tyre was much cooler than I had been used to, so this bodes well for the tyre wear. Matt's premises are just off J13 on the M40 so very accessible. He also only charged a very reasonable price for the Saturday morning he spent with my car. [link=http://www.spires-st.com]www.spires-st.com[/link]

Took my wife and my c4s for a great drive to hever castle, then went to a local pub called the Wheatsheaf where there was a Aston martin car club meeting. This is a great meeting place for a porsche meet great safe car park fantastic food and the owner is a car fanatic with loads of great paintings etc. All set in a superb rustic building kent and Surrey what a great place to meet pieman7

GT 3 Console delete all fitted. [ ] Not too bad to do, once I'd found all the sneaky little screws in the centre console cubby-hole floor and taped up the glove-box sensor wire (could not get it back in!). Like the extra leg-room it give and it looks very schporty!

Today I drove him with the roof up - and it wasn't raining. How weird was that? [ ]

[attachment=IMG_20151020_204325.jpg] [attachment=IMG_20151020_202706.jpg] [attachment=IMG_20151020_204250.jpg] [attachment=IMG_20151020_204055.jpg] Felt like a big kid today again, I collected my hard backs, covers, control panels and coat hooks for the back of the seats from Wicked Coatings who hydroponically dipped them in a patchwork of riveted steel plate pattern, lacquered and flat polished them, the quality of the work looks great. I understand if you don't like the pattern but like it so far and I think its going to look good in the car when its put back together with the leather is refurbished and refinished also the silver and black matches the silver and black on the rest of the interior. I would of left them if they were in good condition but as you can see in the picture they were not and new ones from Porsche are £1000 each, oooouch, so that was not an option, this was the most cost effective option as they had a gooey film on them that had to be got off somehow and I was not going to try I would have ruined them but they had a dipping process to get the crap off and I wanted to give something different ago and if it looks rubbish Ill spay them boring black again.

[attachment=IMG_20151019_173313.jpg] [attachment=IMG_20151019_173357.jpg] Also got the windows tinted dark on the rear, slightly lighter on the side windows and a light tint on the doors, not everyone's cup of tea but I like it on a black car, sorry they are not better pictures, one day I'll get round to using my camera and not the phone.

change the front spoiler on my c4s today. Was damaged by previous owner took 5 mins, sorry 6.5 mins now looks fantastic pieman7

Changed the wiper arms and blades today not a big job I know but what a differance in look. Also changed the lid on the centre consol because it had a rip on the top looking good now.

Didn't do loads with my car but nearly completed the oak framed garage to put her in

Cleaned interior to neutralise cheap nasty fragrance dealer had smothered everywhere. All leather nourished 3 times. CDR22 AUX channel enabled and discretely wired to accept smart phone connection - works great. Washed paintwork for first time, but desperately needs deep polish and wax to restore lustre of Ocean Blue paint. Will delay till after winter, but in the meantime will protect paintwork with wax only.

Well changed the pollen filter today no your right not a hard job but it's done. THEN washed her dried her and gave her a good rub with swiss wax best of show polish she is looking mighty fine what a fantastic product. Also bought a book 101 projects for your Porsche 911 read in it about a device called its guardian sounds great any advice?

<p>Well changed the pollen filter today no your right not a hard job but it's done. THEN washed her dried her and gave her a good rub with swiss wax best of show polish she is looking mighty fine what a fantastic product. Also bought a book 101 projects for your Porsche 911 read in it about a device called ims guardian sounds great any advice?

Hoovered out both vents and couldn't believe what came out of them. Bought an extra long Hoover noozle for this. Hoovered the inside and must say wasn't expecting to find a shot gun cartridge under the drivers seat mmmmm?

Yesterday Ted took us from Suffolk to Lancashire and back, round trip 400 miles. I will not engage with "race me Mister Gary boys" but I do still feel frustration at sloppy lane discipline especially when served with a side order of cruise control induced "I'm not pulling over to let you by". This trip puts me within a month or so of 80k miles so it's time to address the fact that the 80k service needs discussion at the garage in terms of both "what needs doing" and given that it's NOT going to coincide with the MOT in February, "when can I give him up for a day or two". That's the hard part. Also I started to look at the prospect of refreshing the headlights with the cape cod cloths I use for polishing watches and may well get out the elbow grease tomorrow.

Fitted Bose speakers front and back, also had the front lights tinted, they blend in better with the car now.

For some reason I cannot upload a picture of the tinted front lights.

GT3 Console delete fitted in about 3 hours (most of which was trying to find the hidden screws on the console!). Love the look and it gives a surprising increase in leg-room (and one less thing to rattle!).

Took her to brands hatch we'd eve where the kent region had there monthly meeting. Met some very nice people and had some great chats about the club and car thank you kent region see you at tonbridge porsche.

Today was a good day as I became the proud owner of my first Porsche 911. A convertible 996 Carrera 4.

Welcome to porsche world I am a newbie myself have fun and enjoy. I've found there's many people that can help with any questions or problems.

Had the car up on the ramp yesterday to change filter and oil. Can't believe how ever did oil change last tightened drain plug so tight couldn't get it off. Last service done at porsche can't believe they would have done this?. First time I've seen under car since purchase two months ago, very disappointed to see manifolds very rusted by engine. Came home found two in great condition 100.00 smiling now just got to deal with stubburn sump nut.

Recharged battery out car, after completely dead last week. Will see how long charge is maintained, otherwise Bosch S5 is next on list to buy. Fixed the hinged flap on drivers side luggage rail. One side of the hinge had collapsed and suspect was causing wind noise at motorway speeds. Used a chop-stick to prise the strip out! All fixed and cleaned drainage channel at no cost (my favourite fixes). Thanks to Richard's past post on how to remove luggage rail. Polished chrome exhaust tips, used wire wool to remove stubborn carbon deposits.

I've tried loads to up load a pic of my car here, is there a link I can attach pics too.?

Hi Simon This should help. [link=https://www.porscheclubgb.com/forum/tm.aspx?m=330961&high=Uploading+photos]https://www.porscheclubgb.com/forum/tm.aspx?m=330961&high=Uploading+photos[/link]

In the spirit of sharing I thought some might find my exploits through November amusing. Once again (I did this last year too) I am spending as much of the month as possible roof down and dressed like a loon to raise some money for charity, if you're out and about in Kent you may well have already seen me. Here's a little more info via this link [link=http://www.grahamjohn.com/charity/]http://www.grahamjohn.com/charity/[/link] any twitter users can keep an eye on what i'm up to via @aPropertyMattR " />

Cleaned the car hoovered detailed to perfection. THEN coated with a product a friend told me about that he coats his car in, So had to try it the car came up with an amazing shine have to try it guys n girls it's called collinite 845. Like all polishes etc not for glass read all instructions.

Put the car back up on the ramp today with a job in mind to deal with this stubborn sump nut. After a knock here and there finally came free so changed the filter and oil. Next on my list is to fit new manifolds at the same time renew the coils and plugs. After that changing the tip box oil and filter then to fit new low temp thermostat. Really enjoying my life with porsche in it.

Light switch stopped working so removed and have bought new one one. broke vent flap in the process so bought new one of those too!!!!

80k service at Suffolk indie Charlie Wildridge (find him on pistonheads under William Francis) plus braided steel brake hoses in a tartily tasteful red, short shift kit a cure for the parasitic drain (fingers crossed) by replacing the regulator on the alternator. Happy Days!

Removed front PU to get a couple of splits plastic welded and then a repaint is planned

After clearing out the leaves & rubbish from the radiators, I fitted a Zunsport grill set. Very quick and easy to do, fitted in a matter of moments. I think it is a great addition to the front end. Now to tackle the cloudy headlights.

What did I do, I bought one today!!!!! A C4.

Welcome to 996 ownership Nick, Love speed yellow Enjoy

Welcome Nick enjoy your purchase.

Speed yellow - very nice. I have removed front PU for general clean-up and fitting grills. I have gone down the ebay route and spent approx. £25 on parts on grill and fixings. I may write this up if anyone is interested.

Always interested in a money saving job so post away.

Just over two months of having mine and loving every minute, sure you'll be over the moon with your new purchase, looks fab!

Same here! Purchased in November & loving everything about it. Still find myself going into the garage just to have a look.

Looks great! Just how quick and easy was it to do? Any specialist knowledge/tools required or just common sense and some instructions? Edit - looked on the Zunsport website and they have a youtube link. Very easy to fit! What's the general consensus - grills behind (stealth mode) or similar to the Zunsport, grills in front?

It was very easy. Good clear fitting instructions & four small holes to be drilled. Fitted in around ten minutes. A very easy job that has a big impact on the look of the front end. I'm pleased with the outcome.

I have just fitted my own grills last weekend (I'll get pictures posted at some point). After some thought I went for grills behind, although using the method I used it would have been easier to remove the moulded insert completely. However, I wanted to retain original components and I was concerned it would affect cooling efficiency and aerodynamics of the front end. Arguably you could say grills may affect cooling, but when you consider how much debris gets sucked in with poor maintenance I would consider the effects negligible.

I'm sticking to getting the hoover in there every so often, call me old fashioned!! C4 laid up now for a few weeks after a great blast today before the gritters arrived!

Not thought about That Maybe lay it up as well

Today is the 4 week anniversary of my ownership of my 996 and I'm loving every minute. Yesterday, in bright wintry sunshine I took a jaunt to The Royal Standard of England ([link=http://www.rsoe.co.uk]www.rsoe.co.uk[/link]), allegedly the oldest freehouse in England, for lunch with a colleague. Great drive encompassing twisty A/B roads, a nice dual carriageway stretch and a bit of M4. Well worth the trip - the devilled kidneys were fantastic and the beef suet pud was delicious!

Had a good day Changed plugs, coils and took off the old muffler brackets that were rotten and replaced with two I purchased from a breakers in America where the climate is better than here in great condition. Also took off the old manifolds which had started corroding these were a pain with all of the bolts being ceised until I put the mini conductor on them and they came out with great ease. Fitted new stainless manifold headers and gaskets. Next job new brake fluid,coolant, and filter and tip oil.

Finally got the front PU refitted with grill and just had to go for a drive. I tried to post a group of images, but seems it's limited to one per post. Note: don't try drag and drop from a Mac either! [attachment=WP_20160116_15_56_02_Pro.jpg]

They look very neat wibble great job. Does that mesh come in black I have a 4s and as you know the intakes are much larger

Thanks Pieman7. Yes it comes in black or you could spray it black. The standard sheets are approx. 900mm x 300mm which should be enough for the turbo intakes.

Hey guys Just joined the club so thought I'd add my first post and say hi. Tried to restore my cloudy headlights at the weekend and although there's a big improvement im still not happy with them going to give that another go. Got the rear bumper going in for some TLC after someone scrapped it coming out of a parking spot...luckily I know who it was.

Booked the old girl into center gravity.

Welcome Leon I've only been here for about 3 months I'm sure some will tell you some how to get a great finish. There are some videos on u tube

She went in today for new tyres some suspension upgrades and geometry. Can't wait to pick her up next week only trouble is ill be 2k lighter in the back pocket. But this is what happens when to buy a quality car.

Thanks Pieman7, yeah watched quite a few videos...did this using the 3m restoration kit and a drill...think I'll buy the sandpaper and attempt it by hand next time. failing that attempt I'll get someone out to do it.

Eeek, Pieman, that's a big hit on the wallet. Mine goes into Dovehouse cars next week for a major servic/fluids & general inspiration, so I'm expecting a similar hit. Leon, I have the same problem with my lights & have brought a kit to have a go myself, but I might leave it to the professionals.

Big hit but well worth it. Check out the light repair on u tube. I've done a lot of work on the car myself but geometry has to be done properly

Picking her up tomorrow after new anti roll bushes, new drop links, and various bushes. New geometry completed with new tyres. Next on my list new tiptronic oil, front transfer oil, braided brake pipes and new brake fluid. Let you know how she handles.

Picked her up today WOW! What a difference she feels like a completely new car new tyres , geometry , new drop links front and back , new bushes on front and back bars the best 1800.00 I have ever spent. Apart from me croc skin Gucci loafers.

My first big bill as a 911 owner. £1300 for new front control arms, rear brake hoses, New exhaust fittings & full service (including tiptronic service). But on the plus side it now drives perfectly with no rattles. Top quality work from Dovehouse cars.

Removed rear sill and wheel arch trim. No joke, but found enough dirt to fill a plant pot. Drivers side particularly bad with minimal rust. The passenger side shows signs of rust beneath the paint, so ordered some Dimitrol protection. Also, removed suspension strut bars, one lateral and two inclined (these being badly rusted) - the inclined requires sill trim to be removed. I will get these cleaned up and get some quotes on powder coating - the lateral is aluminium, so this should clean up easily. Many of the underbody fixings are cross head self tappers - so after 15+ years of corrosion, don't expect all of them to unscrew easily or at all! Another order placed for allen head self tappers. [attachment=WP_20160130_16_16_01_Pro.jpg]

Cleaned rear wheel arches and inner trim in prep for some wax treatment. Someone had decided to colour code the sill trim in Ocean Blue, it was a bit of a cowboy job to be frank. Anyway, it had to come off - I had to be fairly aggressive with some cellulose thinners and a stiff brush. After some graft they came up well with some Autoglym bumper restorer. This picture shows rust evident on passenger side after the sill trim is removed - bottom left, above is grime! Road dirt and moisture get trapped between trim and bodywork - over time this will rot the sill box section. This will go unnoticed even to the experienced and missed by inspections - so beware! [attachment=WP_20160131_10_00_30_Pro.jpg]

[attachment=IMG_20151201_154757.jpg] Not been on for a while but done a bit to the car. Tinted the windows and lights front and rear Fitted a new starter motor Plastic oil filler neck Plastic water pipe joiner All idle wheels changed Alternator clutch wheel changed New Michelin pilot sports on rear Adjusted the quick shifter Had the car chipped on a rolling road Fitted 997 air filter housing with top speed air intake Had the Porsche badge embroidered on headrests Fitted braided brake hoses with AP prf 660 brake fluid Plenty more in my mind to do.

[attachment=IMG_20160107_145352.jpg] Interior looks much better in the flesh, I'm going to refurbish the leather in the summer.

[attachment=IMG_20160122_152912.jpg] Things done to date UPGRADES Forgot to metion changed the gt3 wheels for 997 sport design wheels Pioneer double din with hands free Bluetooth Later Porsche wheels powder coated gloss black with new black centre caps and valves Air intake by top speed USA Chipped at Tip Top exhausts 340 BHP Handmade s/s exhaust with black turbo tips at Tip Top exhausts Brodit IPhone holder Tyre pressure monitoring system Riveted plates hydrographic design on the interior Porsche quick shifter with new Porsche design gear knob 4 Bose speakers Semi solid engine mounts Tinted windows and lights front, rear and side indicators Door lock cap from a Mercedes SLK in black silver rings fitted around instuments PARTS REPLACED Resprayer body stripped and rebuilt by myself S/s braided brake hoses AP 660 brake fluid New interior alarm indicator cover and dome light housing New windscreen with rubbers trims front and rear New air con condensers and regas New programed key with Porsche design key cover Change all fluids and filters, plugs, coil packs Engine flush, fuel system flush Door lock cap from a Mercedes SLK in black New number plates and front mount New front compartment carpet and plastic trims in black Replaced Porsche tyre inflator, fire extinguisher, petrol can LED number plate bulbs interior and front compartment LED bulbs New Ring headlight bulbs Repaired centre console hinge with Porsche metal upgraded one Fitted new stereo surround with cup holders in it New rear Michelin pilot sport tyres New Porsche m030 springs, ARB’s and drop links New ball joints New V belt idlers New Bosch starter motor New alternator clutch wheel New Carrera boot badge in black New bonnet badge in black with nuts New black scuttle panel New windscreen wipers

At the weekend mainly putting things back together in the rear wheel arches. A two stage Dimitrol treatment to neutralise and prime rust, followed by wax sealant in both wheel wells. The end sill trim was cleaned and renovated, but thinking of replacing both sides after 16 years of use shows. A new rubber lip in needed on osr - oem part to be ordered. The lower braces have cleaned up well - the two inclined made from steel were shot blasted and powder coated, whilst the aluminum brace polished with some wire wool and autosolve - see photo. All laquered for final protection. [attachment=WP_20160206_15_35_08_Pro.jpg]

Noticed you got a pioneer set where did you get the fascia surround all the ones I see there for none cup holder models only.

Hi Pieman ive got the same pioneer set up - it's the connects 2 fascia and although it says for use without cupholders it still fits ones with them.

Thanks Leon did you fit it yourself?

Yeah fitted it myself, pretty easy to do even with no knowledge or idea what you're doing...the only help I needed was to borrow the stereo keys from halfords to pull the nav drive out. theres a good thread going on 911uk called double din fascia which has got pretty much all info you need on the pioneer unit and fitting it.

Thanks Leon found the fascia. Did you get conversion wiring or did the wires fit like for like. I have a amp in the boot also a 6 disc CD player also in the boot I take it this then all goes redundant and the pioneer takes over. Thanks again

im sure there's a more technical way of explaining this...I have the BOSE system so also not sure how transferable this is. i had two 8 wire plugs that went into the PcM1 unit...and believe these were the speaker channels and they plug straight into the pioneer unit. there was then a 12 pin plug which was colour coded and provided power and all other signals like speed, time etc and there's only one wire here that you need and that's the 12v power - I bought a standard harness from halfords, removed all the wires apart from the one I needed and it worked perfectly. In this picture the black/brown wire at the front of the yellow plug is the power so that's the only one you need from that plug, then the two black connectors below it are also needed. (this is the back of the pcm1 btw)

Purchased some new carpets well pleased how good they are

Thanks to my favourite book: [link=http://www.pelicanparts.com/catalog/ShopCart/BOOK/POR_BOOK_bkdemp_pg2.htm]http://www.pelicanparts.com/catalog/ShopCart/BOOK/POR_BOOK_bkdemp_pg2.htm[/link] Managed to save a ton of cash and spend a couple of enjoyable days learning all about changing over suspension units. Cost savings allowed me to go just a little bit nuts on the hardware Obviously not brand-new, but very close! Might be some M030 Springs and dampers for sale very soon!

Just arrived my new dansk Ali pedals. Love the boxes they came in

Where did you get your mats Pieman? Is the pile good quality? It's on my shopping list of things to get. @jagdhamster be interested to know more about the dampers and if this improves M030 setup

Hi wibble I got em from design911 you can design them yourself with different colours, logos. The piles alright I think not like the original but I think there fine set of 4 £118.

Hi Wibble, If it doesn't improve the M030 I will be pretty annoyed - even second-hand Exe-tc stuff is not cheap Just fine-tuning the ride-height at the moment, but she should sit at GT3 height. Will get car aligned next week and let you know [ ]

Bought a new water pump with an upgraded metal impeller from 9 Apart and a Wahler lower temp thermostat. [link=http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/331763306280?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT]http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/331763306280?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT[/link] [link=http://www.9apart.co.uk/#!blank/k0z1j/fef9e74f-4417-cb85-e3e1-a8ab7a2b6ee1]http://www.9apart.co.uk/#!blank/k0z1j/fef9e74f-4417-cb85-e3e1-a8ab7a2b6ee1[/link]

My god they are some nice boxes can you take a picture of them fitted please, sorry I mean the pedals when fitted not the boxes. Cheers Paul

[attachment=image2.JPG] Fitted a new dome light surround today and d eleted the old microphone fitted the sunroof switch in it correctly everything fits as it should and everything works. Looks grey in the pics but it looks black in the car.

Took her up to excel for the classic car show. Two very nice rsr s up there was a great show Porsches in there plenty. Definitely the car to be seen in.

Will do Paul will post some pics

Thanks I've got a set from 911 design to fit not as posh as yours but I think they will look great when I get round to it.

They also came from design 911 if you register your membership no: they give you discount not loads but all helps towards your next purchase

Put my dansk ali pedals on! different look again

Nice one I can't wait to fit mine now. Cheers Paul

Got in early wash and polish fitted new led bulbs

Cleaned rads and refitted repainted PU see here for full story [link=https://www.porscheclubgb.com/forum/tm.aspx?m=777119&mpage=6#911131]https://www.porscheclubgb...119&mpage=6#911131[/link]

[attachment=image1.JPG] Yesterday at a friends garage we fitted a new water pump with a metal impellor got rid of the plastic one just in case it disintegrated or slipped on the shaft,changed the thermostat and housing with a cooler running one 75 degrees , replaced coolant with a 50/50 mix and added some water wetter. We also changed the brake fluid with AP660 racing fluid and fitted a GT3 front lip spoiler looks like the one on Stuarts GT3 in the above picture, and finally fitted a new oil filler tube with cap. I also found the air oil separator was leaking at the seal and the two rear shocks are leaking as well so I'm replacing the air oil separator and some BC Racing coil overs (I have researched them and they have some good reviews)

I need to find one of these hardtop from GTN-Automotive & if it will fit my 996!

That looks nice.

+1 [ ]

I added a "911" script to my engine lid after having just finished a GT3 aero kit install [ ]

Hi Wibble, They are much, much better than the M030 set-up, but then they were a fair bit more to buy (even second-hand)! They're 3-way adjustable (High-speed bump, Low-speed bump and Rebound) with progressive springs and upgraded drop-links all hand-made using top-grade materials and very little rubber bushing anywhere. As a consequence they are a little bit clunky at slow speed, but they are stunningly good at damping/body control once the speed rises. Just taken the car out with a car journalist (cmoose on PH). He test-drove my car on M030s and his impressions were here: [link=http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?t=1544997]http://www.pistonheads.co...ng/topic.asp?t=1544997[/link] The weather wasn't ideal and there was a lot of traffic today, but he liked them a lot, as do I. We're going to do a "group test" in the near future with my car on the exe-tcs, cmoose's Cayman S (on maybe Pss9s) and another chap's 997.1 GT3 to see how they compare. Overall though, I would say they're firm but still compliant and increasingly so with speed, with absolute car control. They are a little noisy, though (only a bit and I'm growing used to/liking it now). Cheers,

Just read CMoose's article and it's a great read. Thumbs up for the Carrera 2 and yours looks great JagdH.

Thanks, James. Cmoose might do a write-up of the exe-tcs one day, too

Just wondering if I can persuade the wife that this is a sensible investment? [link=http://www.roadandtrack.com/car-culture/news/a28418/sell-everything-you-own-and-buy-this-porsche-911-gt1-evolution/]http://www.roadandtrack.c...che-911-gt1-evolution/[/link]

Nice lights

Good luck on that one. Treat her first to shoes / handbag. YES it does work

[attachment=IMG_20160314_142714.jpg] Had a great productive day on Saturday, fitted the NYPPD (from New York USA) semi solid engine mounts,replaced all the calliper bleed nipples with new Brembo ones (there is eight on these cars), and Mark whose garage it is I work in, with my help fitted the alloy pedals. We were going to fit a new air oil separator but decided the engine is best coming out to do this the easy way, whilst it is out we will fit a new Sachs performance clutch kit, Stainless steel manifolds with S/S bolts, rocker cover gaskets and a few other gaskets and maybe change the IMS bearing and seal if needed but I'm sure this upgrade has been done, oh and change the oil and plugs. Almost forgot the Techy gadget bit, we fitted a tyre pressure, temp and battery gauge or TPMS system that works brilliantly, not stuck the Velcro in place yet I'm not sure what side of the shelf to have it on, the round things on the valves are the sender units they are secured in place with a locking nut so they are secure, I don't leave the car anywhere doggy so hopefully they won't get nicked, as you can see on the gauge the side that is in the sun is hotter and yes I have to pump the front tyres up. WE also got the car play on the double din Pioneer head unit working now (I plugged in the USB the wrong way round) this mirrors the apps on my iPhone on the Pioneer screen in the car so I can use all the apps like sat nav on the big screen. I have plans to fit a oil temperature gauge to the to of the steering Colum shroud, I bought this holder from the good old USA that fits over the top of the original one, again its not fitted in place properly yet. I'm also going to get more of the interior parts up the centre consol,door bits and around the ceter vent dipped in the metal riveted plates to finish the interior off. I'm still waiting for my coil overs to be delivered to fit them then more track days.

[attachment=IMG_20160314_142750.jpg] [attachment=IMG_20160314_142714.jpg] [attachment=IMG_20160314_142714.jpg] Pictures of above post

This is interesting - what tpms have you installed? does the one system cover the tyre pressures, battery and temp gauge? What temp is it displaying?

It show pressure on all wheels, temp of the tyres in 0c or f. and battery voltage, it took half an hour to install and as it shows in the picture its a Careud, took us longer to download the instructions of the web and program it but it works perfectly we tested the temp and psi and its spot on and the voltage is correct also.

[attachment=IMG_20160314_142714.jpg] Pictures

pic of pedals

Thanks - Couldn't quite make out what the brand was apart from the care bit

Pressures a bit low, Paul?

...whoa seriously - that is a thing of beauty - I love the lines of the new targa and this is a straight look alikey pinch it seems - thread below says they are manufacturing them - so not available yet then...any one know when? [link=http://www.gtn-automotive.com/gtn/sites/start_e.html]http://www.gtn-automotive.com/gtn/sites/start_e.html[/link] J

[attachment=pedals 013.JPG] I know I was too excited at it actually working well I still have not pumped up the tyres yet, do you know what the correct pressures are front and rear. Cheers Paul Oh and here's a picture of my finished alloy pedals they make the cart go faster you know he he.

look very nice paul but your chuffed

Thank you very much, I'm like a big kid with a new toy every time I do something like this to the car. Coilovers next then engine out to do a few jobs.

This makes me want to buy a convertible to put one on just looks perfect to me.

I've just purchased the same new pump and thermo. How much fluid came out around 22 litres? You say 50/50 mix so I need to purchase 11/12 litres of consentrate then top up with h2o?. What the water wetter

Hi Leon just purchased the same unit seeing as it's had 50.00 knocked of it when you fitted this did you have any issues with the alarm going off only ask because the guy in harrods said I might do. Nice guy but looks like he was still in nappies

Hi Pieman, Are you asking me or Leon about the TPMS? if it is me no I had no problems with anything I have fitted to the car it all works great, no problems with the alarm or anything else. As with the pump and thermometer I bought 20 litres of distilled water and 11 bottles of concentrate at a 50/50 mix, the water wetter is put in most rally and race cars. Check it out [link=http://www.redlineoil.com/content/files/tech/WaterWetter%20Tech%20Info.pdf]http://www.redlineoil.com...tter%20Tech%20Info.pdf[/link]

Thanks Paul answered all queries

Some new wheels Also dropped the car off at Nine Excellence for hybrid turbos,injectors,switchable exhaust.

[Image-only or quote-only post; no author-written text.]

[attachment=IMG_20160323_125944.jpg] [attachment=IMG_20160323_130039.jpg] Picked up these babies today all I have to do is fit them then I'm spending a day at Centre of Gravity to get the car set up professionally [link=http://www.centregravity.co.uk/]http://www.centregravity.co.uk/[/link]

[attachment=IMG_20160323_133530.jpg] Test fitted the oil temp gauge in the car and it looks good to me I can see the vdo screens still as well.

[attachment=IMG_20160323_133540.jpg] I cant seam to post more than one picture at a time sorry and I cannot figure out why it attaches a picture also

Wheels look great. You must have a very understanding wife or she loves porsche as much as you. If I'd put the rear wheels of my car on the dinner table without a doubt she'd cut em off while I was sleeping.

Paul what radio did you take out also was the old one fibre optic. Just bought the same touch screen like yours but my 23cdr has fibre optic.

That was the sellers pic I would not get away with wheels on the work top, bad enough with car parts in the dish washer

Rear spoiler not the standard one did you get that done yourself?

my car has a gt2 front bumper and rear spoiler

Love the rear spoiler do they do them with the red reflecter band across the bottom if so would put one on my c4s.

Took the Speed Yellow out on a cracking run to bed the new discs and pads all round as fitted by Autofarm this week. Stops a lot better now!!!

I took out a Sony,so not much help there, if the fibre optic wire fits into the back, plug it in see what happens can't do any harm.

hi all I'm after the rear bellows rubber, on the rear spoiler , if anyone has one mine just split grrrrrrrr lol thanks guys I'm in Dartford kent

and does anyone know where I can get theses zr rated bridgestone tires for the 996 many thanks frank..

You can get them from Porsche (Part Number 996.512.250.00) but they are £95 now. A lot different from when I did mine: [link=https://www.porscheclubgb.com/forum/tm.aspx?m=282009]https://www.porscheclubgb.com/forum/tm.aspx?m=282009[/link] [link=https://www.porscheclubgb.com/legacy/clientftp/Register/996/tec_spoiler_wall.pdf]https://www.porscheclubgb.com/legacy/clientftp/Register/996/tec_spoiler_wall.pdf[/link]

Thanks very much Richard very nice of you ,regards .frank .

Well finally put in my pioneer car play now I have phone , sat nav my music from my iPhon. The phone sounds great had a bit of trouble converting the fibre optic but all done. Will post a couple of pics soon. Also Saturday changed the tiptronic oil and filter etc. Walk in the park getting to know all the knocks and crannies. With help from my great book

Hi that sounds very intresting did you do the gearbox oil and filter yourself or a garage , I want to get mine done , many thanks . Frank .

All up and running ok? what did you nee to buy or do to get it working fibre optic wise!

Treated PWE to some panel ding removal, see my RR for more photos

Hi Frank you would need a hydralic ramp to keep the car level. It was very easy to do Richard very kindly sent me information and the procedure. The only thing I would say is that when putting the thick rubber gasket on the pan make sure it's completely seated right before tighten up. The tiptronic box also has a filter you must change I bought all the items from design911. Also you would need a infrared temperature gun around 40.00 Amazon. Also make sure you use the right oil as Richard said my c4s has a Mercedes Benz gearbox which I used Fuchs oil. Good luck it's very satisfying to do it yourself. Just keep all receipts for your cars records.

Hi Leon I had to buy a converter which helped me to keep my amp working that came with the car

Thankyou for your info with the gearbox I really don't think I could do it myself but I really appreciate your words of wisdom ,so thanks very much ,all the best , Frank .

Did you have to remove the cats to change the pump or the rear engine mount just seems a really tight space for the pump to come out?

On Saturday treated the car to a wash and its first full waxing of the year. Just in time for the R31 Sunday morning coffee morning meet at Burford.

Looks great andy

Hi Pieman, Sorry for the late reply, all we did was put a transmission jack under the engine to support it took the nuts off the rear mounting plate and luckily a couple of the threaded studs came out instead of the nuts so we could just sqeeze in and get the mounts and water pump in and just put the nuts and studs back on and that was it. The old mounts were completely knackered split with all the oil gone I recon a few cars out there have knackered mounts because its not obvious they are busted. we were going to replace the oil air separator because the seal is sligh leaking but it looks like an engine out job so when I have the money we are going to upgrade the Clutc, maybe the manifolds and definitely the bolts and change the gaskeya and anything else that needs doing

Thanks Paul how was the impeller on your old pump? I was told that the reason they were plastic was so if the bearing ever failed the impelper would snap and not bury it's self into the block if it was metal. Now I really confused seeing as I have a new pump with metal impeller on it sitting on my shelf.

More likely cheaper manufacturing costs - once the bearing starts to fail then most probably audible and possible coolant leak. Some of the 944 impellers were plastic, but oem were metal.

Thanks wibble for this

Gave her a good old wash

Sorted corrosion on door plates. Two stage polish on rear PU, sealed and waxed. Really pleased, as I've removed poor over-spray nearside corner of PU and looks perfect now. Ocean Blue really comes to life in sunshine! Next weekend to continue polish stages ready for Spring/Summer. Planning to remove sport seat backs for a respray...

After much research I ordered a set of Milltek mufflers after being on the cusp of ordering M&M from Germany. Eurocarparts are currently offering 10% discount on Milltek at the moment and this swayed my decision (and essentially a British company).

Hi, Metal impellors are always superior to plastic ones, they are plastic to keep the costs down and no other reason, it would be a million to one chance the impeller would explode.

[attachment=image1(1)(1)(1)(1).JPG] [attachment=image2.JPG] Fitted a xenon kit to the main beam on the beast, my god what a difference it is literally brilliant now not bad for £37.

Gave mine a fresh drink of Mobil1. New oil filter and back in the garage!

Sounds very cheap - lets have the storry

If you mean the xenon's, there's not a lot to say really I bought a Xenon bulb kit here [link=http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Low-Dip-Beam-H7-55W-12K-Hid-Ac-Conversion-Kit-Digital-Xenon-Bulbs-Id19-/331089722516?fits=Car+Make%3APorsche%7CPlat_Gen%3A996&hash=item4d167c3c94:g:xeoAAOxygPtSsXDm]http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Low-Dip-Beam-H7-55W-12K-Hid-Ac-Conversion-Kit-Digital-Xenon-Bulbs-Id19-/331089722516?fits=Car+Make%3APorsche%7CPlat_Gen%3A996&hash=item4d167c3c94:g:xeoAAOxygPtSsXDm[/link] and fitted them, took around half an hour.

Took my car to tonbridge porsche yesterday with the kent club. Got a great bill of health with nothing needin attentio. Technician couldn't believe how good it was.hats of to the previous owner.

Blinding! That's on full beam Paul?

picking up this next week - 1st porsche - 996 turbo on an 02 plate - 67k miles. Had it checked out and all good (with a few small advisories) VERY excited!

Welcome crozza if that's your first porsche you've owned what a car to start with. Just remember not to many points on your license. Have fun

Its the main beam it is very bright and white but it doesn't dazzle.

Hello Crozza Love the motor

Finally fitted Milltek Sports mufflers. Slightly louder on idle and cruising, but simple guttural bark on rev and overrun. No drone or resonance. Brings the engine to life in my opinion. Quality exhaust, well made and look great tucked away behind rear wheel. Sound check at idle: OEM 74Db Milltek 79Db (approx. +5db) Next project?

[attachment=IMG_0942.JPG] I Spent the whole day and I mean the whole day 8am till 9.30 pm at centre of gravity chassis tuning [link=http://www.centregravity.co.uk/]http://www.centregravity.co.uk/[/link] to get the car set up properly, these are the people Porsche race teams send their cars to be set up . Chris the owner runs the business with his wife and son in law, 99% of their business is with Porsche's with the odd other make. I have never been with such a knowledgeable anal professional engineer (his own words not mine) Chris encourages you to spend the day with him to watch his every move on the car so he can explain and educate you in the art of Porsche chassis tuning. Firstly we take the car out for a test drive for him to find out what the car is acting like, he thought mine wasn't bad because I fitted the new kit by eye a few days before, but there were a few other noises he pointed out that I thought were normal sounds but apparently not. When we got back he checked the tyres for pressure, age, tread, temp to test my then TPMS system I'm sure he had some sort of machine that tested the elasticity of the rubber or something like that, he then checked and tested the shocks on a machine that in layman's terms shakes the wheel up and down, they were fine but other things were not, that's when it started to drain my penny's, after checking everything else we found the car needed, 2 rear track control arms, toe control arm, inner rod end, track rod end, camber eccentric bolt oh and a shed load of wax. The work the commenced,I have never seen a mechanic work so fast but carful to the point of being OCD about fitting all of the parts, even the snap on tools had to be put back on top of the tool box in line and in its place after use, it took 2 hours to fit all the parts, I held the torch at time to time but would not let me help with anything ells, it was nice to watch for once. After all the parts were fitted the tuning started (this took another 9 hours after which time we were both knackered),I lost count how many times the wheels were put on and off to measure and set things, firstly I was asked what I was going to do with the car which is a mixture of track days and road use so we decided to set it up a little bit more hard core than the GT3 996/7 set up. (Ill give you the abbreviated version) the ride heights were set first to GT3 spec then the geometry this took a long long time, after the geometry he then set the corner weight's of the car, steering set up adjustable ARB's drop links connect, everything tightened down and buttoned up, then sprayed with Worth wax, the tools were cleaned and checked back into the tool box. As I said this was the abbreviated version I really am not able to do them justice there was just too much for me to remember to put everything down in writing but I can tell you the experience was amazing I really learnt a lot. We then too the car out for the test drive with him driving first and pointing out how the car is acting on the road, which is just fantastic,I have never driven anything that feels like this car it is so sure footed on any surface bumpy or smooth wet or dry, and the grip level is just unbelievable and apparently it would be even better with'' grippier'' tyres such as 888's but I'm happy with the Michelin pilot sports that are on it. There are 30 damper settings by means of an adjuster on top of each shock, they're set 7 turns off the stiffest setting on the front and 8 on the back for the road, I really did think the car would be very hard but I was wrong it is firmer but still very comfortable, I can't wait to try it on a track with it on the stiffest setting Chris recons it will handle like a dream, oh one other thing, the car drive straight and true and I asked for it to be set up so it does not track like some race cars so its easier to drive in a straight line, you can drive the thing down a bumpy road and steer the thing with your finger tips, I love it. PS. I forgot Chris found the sleave on one of the high pressure hose on the steering rack had almost corroded right through and if it snapped completely it could have cost me a fortune to fix, we fixed it will a jubilee clip that cost me nothing, happy days.

Replaced the wheel arch liner. Had a pleasant surprise when the replacement part came with the air vent and rubber lip already fitted so cost approx £25 less than expected. Will take more care with ground clearance than which ever previous owner had split the liner.

WOW Not heard of such dedication since my urquattro days

Great write up. You must summarise what kit you fitted - something I plan to do next winter...

Now the fun starts trying to fit my new callipsers

Centre consel al refurbished in silver Ali to match the rest

Had my first experience of a track day in the form of a taster sessions at Rockingham today. Had an instructor for the first part who helped me build up my confidence in how my car performed & allowed me to fully enjoy pushing myself & the car. I even managed not to stuff it into the tyres, unlike the poor sod in his GT86!

Changed the coolant today and fitted low temp thermosta. Then noticed that the rubber coupling to the front transfer box had splits in it so my next project.

Hello do you do all your own maintenance ,that's great if you can ,I need to change my back bellow s because they are split ,can I attempt this myself do you think , cheers Frank .

Hi Frank if your a bit mechanically minded it is easy I have a ramp I can use. you could do it with drive on ramps if you put them at the rear of the car. I do most of the maintanence myself but when it comes to geometry and wheel alignment I get the pros to do it. But oil change ,plugs manifolds those sort of things I do. I keep all the receipts etc for proof and I stamp my book myself. Some indies I've spoken to just send the cars somewhere else If they don't have the no how.

Oh really ok ,yes I'm ok but I would really like to change the exchaust ,it has a sports exchaust on it an I find it very noisy at times ,even though it's a nice deep sound ,I was thinking about putting the originals back on,but I've herd the manifolds can be a nitemare with the 6 mm small studs ,thanks for your reply .. Frank .

Studs are a real problem if you cant get them out. it can be done by a pro in situ but how to get the car there idf you've started but cant finish

The studs agreed are a problem but there are people you can call out to remove the studs I bought the jig that aligns the drill bits up for you then you retap the thread you have to be careful not to drill to deep though. When I changed mine four or the studs were really solid but I used a mini conductor that heats the bolts with an electrical current and not a flame. Once they were heated they came out easy.

Thank you so much for that you obviously know your way around the porche engine ,I'm still learning this 996 ,I had a sc 3000 1979 air cooled 911 and don't know much about the water cooling version I have lol ,but im learning ,I had a service on engine and gearbox plus all porche parts an filters £500 ,which I thought was good ,sanspeed of Bexleyheath did it for me , i love the car it has 70,000 on the clock an it seems very responsive ,but it seems to do what it likes ,sometimes it won't let me lock or unlock car,have to use key ,then alarm goes off if I don't press key fob a hundred times lol ,my brother say s it's because I don't use it enough ,but lately with the hot weather I have. Do you have a good parts place I can use at all,I'm sorry to pick your brains,but I'm still green lol . Thank you for your help . Cheers Frank .

hi Frank Richard will read these points and he'll be able to point you in the right direction. There's been lots of chat about the micro switches on the doors etc. You said that your at bexleyheath you should try and get to brands hatch on Wednesday night the kent region have there club nights there. Welcome to the 996 group any way

Frank, the fob stops working after 5 days if the car is not used. The owners manual covers the process which as I recall is to turn the key in the lock which effectively reactivates the fob. You can then use the fob as normal which should avoid setting the alarm off. As far as parts go, depending on what you are looking for you local Porsche centre can be the best priced. Not necessarily the case but recently I bought a replacement courtesy light for the door as the lens was missing. Cheaper to buy the lens from Porsche which came as the full light fitting including bulb than it was to buy just the lens from a breaker. I also replaced the clutch pedal rubber as it had split - I could have bought three of them from Porsche for the price an independent was looking for one. Bear in mind as a club member there is usually a 10% or so discount offered on parts. Regards

Thank you so much Graham you guys have been so helpfull to me so much appreciated , I'm still learning the 996 , only had early air cooled sports coup before , many thanks , regards frank .

Thanks Simon ,yes I want to get to the club meeting at the kentigon brands it's very local for me so mayb see you there ,appriciate all your help . regards Frank .

Yes thanks Richard ,these studs do seem to be a problem for us ,and they are very small 6mm. ,I wood really like to go all stainless steel for the exhaust , I know it's expensive ,but better In the long run don't you think . Thanks regards Frank .

If it wasn't done long ago you mind find huge amounts of WD40 put on a few days before will be enough as the Nuts will have been off then There is another release fluid in a blue bottle that you can use - it much thinner than WD - Used to use it in a garage 50 years ago when I did an apprenteship (Only did 18 months as I deceded I didn't want to work in a garage all my life!

Thanks Richard that's a great bit of advice ,I really want to make sure this 996 is a good as it can be ,many thanks kund regards Frank .

WE all start that way, hopefully we can carry on Had a holiday booked in Coningsby for a week. 996 decided to develop a water leak Do most of my own work but could not find the leak as I could not Took it to Wolverhampton Porsche who said it was leaking from the top of the engine cost me 85.00 Would/Could not tell me what it would cost Ran it down to a Garage in Aberdovey that I was recommended by a 911 owner in the club (Cost me 9.00 to get back to Shrewsbury - 2 hours on the train!!!) Phoned him next morning - Gave it an hour pressure test and its coming from the front of the engine - hopefully a pipe. Hoping it an easy job Will advise

Funny you say that because the hoses on my 996 don't look that good any idea Richard how much a porche shop would charge ,an do you know how many hoses are under the engine altogether ,once again thanks Richard regards frank .

Hi Frank there's two great books that help one is Porsche 911 (996) writen by our own Richard Hamilton is quite hard to find but he makes things so easy, great book. Also another that goes into a bit more depth is this good luck. Might see you we'd at brands

Wow Simon that's really great ,thanks ,Richard obviously knows his porches big time lol and you do ,I'm goin to try an get to brands if I can would be great to meet you guys ,thanks again . regards frank .

Ive got the Porsche PET Will try and get copies of the three pages of Pipes and Hoses Buy direct from POrsche they are incredibly cheap average 15.00 each Only problem is there ar LOTS of them

This book 101 Projects is great it shows you how to replace all your hoses BUT you've got to get under vehicle and really need a LiftWife not happy about me installing a lift on the drive !! Get quote from Porsche before you look elsewhere for Pipes ie Main pipe from Coolant tank to Engine (with three pipes coming of it)18.00 !!

hi richardjjs mines the same so i have been looking at these scissors type ramps saw one make at the classic car show that works off mains electric not three phase. 1400.00 and it sit under your car in the garage its called the tamar have a look www.strongmantools.co.uk.

Hi Simon yes they look good ,excellent for doin your own maintan I would think ,cheers for that link . Frank .

Thanks very much Richard I've ordered the book looks great much appreciate your help .thanks frank.

Have you got Richard Hammonds Book! Back from Holiday early Waiting to here where the water leak is Many years ago I stripped a urquattro down Had ir resprayed and rebuilt it - on my drive way Because of the large number of pipes I just felt I could not get the Porsche high enough to check the water pipes It take two hours for the leak to show properly Know today if its serious PS Have you got the Porsche Parts List (PET)]

Hi richardjjs1 Richard Hamilton is the moderator for 996 group a very knowledgeable man. Yes I found his book on the net in the states it covers every thing you would need to ask also has pics of parts and locations of all sorts of stuff.

Front cover. It is the ultimate owners guide as it says

I have the Porsche Parts List PET Should be able to send details Also Porsche Manual COPY from states Some of it is really good 101 Projects is published by a US Parts sullpier If you are in UK Make sure you get prices from Porsche FIRST Some parts are Cheap (And I mean Good value)

Simon your an absolute star just bought it off eBay ,thanks very much . frank .

Hi Richard thanks for the info as I say I've bought the great book 101 996 projects can't wait to see that ,can it be possible to email me the parts list by any chance Richard ,if not don't worry my email is [email removed] many thanks Frank .

Have sent it but may need to get it to you by

Thanks Richard are you at brands tonite

A job I've been dreading started today, Well started quite good removed air filter box and throttle body"straight forward enough". After this I stuck my phone in and took some pics seeing if I could locate the sensor, and sure enough there it is right behind/underneath the ac pump. My friend came round and degassed the unit for me so I could remove it took out the three bolts two at the front and one at the back. Before this I forgot to mention I had to take off the offside inlet manifold what a pain in the rear that was. Opened up my new sensor/level indicator and found they sent the wrong one for turbo/gt3 had my dobuts when I saw how big the nut was. seeing as the air filter box was off I took the chance to change the fan belt seeing it had a few more cracks in it than I wanted to see. About 20 minutes after I disconnected the battery tracker called me and asked if I was near the car. After me telling the guy I was working on it he told to reconnect the battery or the tracker battery would run down after so long and they can't be recharged once gone flat. Let you know what I find once I take out the oil level / temp sensor.

Blimey Simon you certainly don't let many people touch your car because you do it all yourself , I'm not sure I would attempt all that sort of work mate , very intresting though ,hope you sort it soon , do you go to the brands meeting at all ... Than Simon . frank

Used to go to Brands Hatch quite often when I lived near Croydon and worked at Orpington Live in Shropshire now 200 miles away so don't go Nearest circuit is Oulton Park in Cheshire did have a track day with quattro Owners Club many years ago when I had 2 quattros

Oh ok Richard ,I wasn't sure where you were in the country ,it's nice up your way there's quite a few race circuits near you I believe . And thanks again for that parts pdf you sent its excellent cheers Frank .

Havnt got a garage 1400 sounds OK!!

Hi Frank yes I do go to brands but didn't this month will be there next month. I live in oxted near westerham hope to see you there. Carrying on with the car today

<p>Just for people's interest this is where the oil level/ temp senser is the brass nut with the four wires on it. The round Ali spacer is the back bolt for the air con unit</p>

Very enjoyable day spent at the Prescott Hillclimb with fellow PCGB members. My 2nd run was much more confident through the S's, although armco barriers was intimidating on either side. The Milltek's apparently howled going around the two hairpins. The Rennsport old school 911s in attendance were pretty awesome. And the Victoria sponge cake with strawberries was the 'icing on the cake'

Nice one Glad you enjoyed it Wish we could have been there

Hi Picked up my car yesterday - amazing! Shame about the 50mph limit on the M1 home, but still managed to have a lot of fun!. Mechanically its sounds having spend a few quid at Cavendish in Derby. There are a few things I'd like a little advice on cosmetically, and as i cant see a 'search' function on the forum i thought i'd ask you... 1. Couple of scratches - nohting too deep, but enough to annoy me! - Am going to try Scratch X - but does anyone know a good touch up specialist near london that doesn't cost the earth... There are 2, one noticeable one on the spoiler a a less deep one on the bonnet (faint but annoying). Ive a newish merc as the family car, and when i bought it the dealer scratched the car (he spent 500 quid fising it) - I'm hoping to find a cheaper (but good) way of sorting the scratches without a respray... 2. Interior - there is a small plastic cover missing on the navigation unit, again annoying, I cant seem to search (well find) it on google.... Any ideas? 3. Seats, the front seats could do with a little restoration - filling cracks etc - dynamix leather dye kits look good, any advice on others? and if using dynamix - how can you tell what 'finish' to buy (matt, gloss, satin...) 4. Interior panels - could of smallish scrapes / any ideas on how to get these looking as good as poss? (other than replacing) thanks - and sorry to ask soooo many quesitons

1. If you're finger nail does not snag in the scratches, then these will polish out. Some of the mobile dent removers are pretty good at deeper scratches, but cannot recommend in your area. 2. Be patient, but ebay is a good place to find obscure trim. Otherwise, OPC should help. 3. Try Gliptone cleaner and nourish. The nourishment can be applied multiple times to feed the leather and is sometimes enough to seal cracks. Then go down dye route - youtube is the best resource. 4. I have the same problem on seat backs and finding matching finishes is difficult. There are plastic paints in the market. I am investigating using a wrap which is a cheap and easy hardwearing fix. Again check youtube. Welcome to 996 ownership!

Well carried on with changing the oil level sensor put the new one in and put the car all back together tried to start her and there's definitely and breather pipe split somewhere so going to put her on a smoke test tomorrow. By the way level sensor working fine.

anyone know where to get the 'codes' for interior colours i cant find anything relating to carpets / seats etc in my paperwork (unless I'm going mad) and the service book does not have any reference. thanks

Would it be on the label under boot with the other codes

Today did a smoke test through the throttle body with a hose pipe and some rag and a twenty pound e cigarette (they give of more vapour than a normal cigarette) puffed a couple of times and found my split hose changed her over and she's running like a dream. O buy the way it wasn't a op e cigarette nor a op hose pipe one came from the corner shop and the other home base. What I mean is don't despair when the car has problem ask members for help or ideas.

Well pleased today picked up a spare front bumper for my c4s old but never used 260.00 bargin.

anyone recommend a good specialist in the london (ideally south london), or essex (between chelmsford and colchester) area - mine has just had work done by Cavendish in Derby who seemed great - but its a schlep from SE London, albeit the labour is better value. I was toying with the Hartech scheme for my turbo, but the petrol to Bolton and back might offset any labour costs. So any recommendations appreciated. thanks

Car all cleaned today bought two wish bone for the front changing over the weekend. Monday morning she goes in to get the wheels refurbished.

Design911 always recommend HP Motorsport in Essex. I haven't used them yet but they are going to change the Ims for me.

Hi Simon I believe they are very good I've just had a quote from Larosa porche Sevenoaks To supply and fit a new hybrid ceramic IMS bearing (there has been a further upgrade to this bearing, so we would fit the latest style) would cost a rather unpleasant £1615.00 plus vat which includes new drive plate, new torque converter bolts and rear main seal. Sounds pretty good to me mate ,cheers . Frank . .

I had a quote from Porsche Wolverhampton to fit a new Oil Cooler on my 996 911 Sport charged me 1100 in September 2014. Its not just to get the business they cant do it till June Hopefully its covered by the 2 year warranty So make sure you try a Porsche Dealer as well

Get a quote from your Porsche Dealer They seem to suddenly be offering competitive prices

Lacrosse porsche did my geometry etc. Frank are you local to sevenoaks then

Yes sir I'm in dartford ... Not to far

Thanks Richard I will now ,much appreciated . frank .

I fitted my new wheels then popped along to watch my regional group at Blyton race track.

They look excellent love your other pics as well nice 1 . Frank

Thanks. I wasn't sure if I did the correct thing when buying them. The standard wheels look so good any way,but. I really like how the OZ's look and they are way lighter than the twists. Cant wait for my trip to centre of gravity to have the Ohlins fitted and set up. Live had the car since January and covered over 2000 miles. I'm in love with it which isn't something I'd usually say about a car!

I think they suit it very well looks great

Wheels look great - how much per corner? De-badged my tatty 'Carrera 4' badge on rear and replaced with a shiny '911' badge. Started to sticker up for Le Mans trip too...

From the OZ web site. Hope me you enjoy the Le Mans trip. I'd love to go one year.

I'm the same but you have a porche ,nothing more to say ,I love my 996 ,with all its teething problems ,and it drives like no other car can ,so yes I understand . Cheers frank.

Taking her in to get the wheels refurbished. Near side front was obviously one wheel that the dealer must of had cosmetically touch up but now some heats got in it the lacquer has started to crack. Needs acid dipping powder coated and sprayed ( do it properly or not at all). Will post some pics with my new gt3 6pot callipers on soon.

You don't need planning for a car port mate I put this up

I put this up richardjjs1 don't need planning for a car port

Don't think the neigbours would like a Car Port !!

changed the control arms and new bolts job took about 1 hour thanks to Richard Hamilton for a great post on procedure. Also wheels all refurbished and looking fantastic in sparkle silver just a few shades lighter than the standard colour.

How much was the wheel refurb

Hi richardjjs1 I paid 360.00 including. They acid dip powder coat and spray I also put on new dt chrome wheel nuts and lockers they look great. I'll post some pics once I put on the 350 discs and gt3 callipers ( 6 pot). My car is tiptronic so braking by changing down isn't as affective as a manual.

I would not like to race with tiptronic but I find it very effective for breaking in normal road Use Helps keep those nice new wheels cleaner a wheel Where are you

I'm near westerham kent I go to kent region at brands every 2nd we'd of month. Won't be there next month (pitty) of to Moscow for a wedding.

Hi Simon oh that's a shame your not goin to the meeting at brands, hopefully I will be there , I'm in crayford near Bexlyheath , be nice to meet you for a chat when your free , cheers Frank

Sure thing frank

Well pleased just picked up porsche system tester does all cars up to 2005 bargain bucket

Last wax before Le Mans and stickered up. Dry run down to Goodwood Breakfast Club with R19 - Supercar Sunday and a bacon roll - roll on the summer (hopefully)!

[attachment=Capture.PNG] Fantastic trip to Hockenheim where they would not let me on the track because it was a retro DTM revival, cant blame them really Porsche's take over in Germany, so we went to the Nurbergring where we spent a few days and the car with the Center of Gravity set up is just unbelievable, cant wait to go again.

Should always replace both sides of suspension at the same time Can lead to expensive other wear ie Tyres What is this Leather restorer you bought

Hello to my fellow 996 owners, This is my first forum posting, i've been particularly slack over the past months. I became a PCGB member back in Dec-15 but only yesterday logged on to the forum - shameful i know! I am relatively new to 911 ownership, I bought my 2003 C4S in November last year and due to various work commitments i've hardly had the chance to drive her. That said i've recently had the car in for MOT at my local Independent RPM Technik and after all works required had been addressed i've started to think and plan ahead in readiness for my Euro Trip later this summer. I've known RPM Technik for over 5 years since they were previously looking after my 944 S2 Cab (which has moved on to a new home sine Feb of this year). I have indeed this week taken RPM's advice and opted to have the infamous IMS changed (and clutch while they are down there), i've also chosen to have a Low Temp Thermostat fitted and a light weight dual mass flywheel... i test drove the RPM CSR 911 and found it wasn't at all that bad and that the chatter was minimal on idle considering the burbling exhaust note. Not quite looking forward to picking up the bill, but I am looking forward to driving the car knowing she has a clean bill of health and 'touch wood' many trouble free miles of enjoyable driving ahead! I will post pictures soon, but for those who maybe interested she is a Lapis Blue Manual with Savannah leather, all standard inside and out (for now). Happy and safe driving to you all! Surjit

Hi Surjit And welcome to 996 ownership, I'm sure you will have no regrets with your C4s purchase, they are fantastic cars and great value for money. Hope the bills not to heavy, but at least it will give you piece of mine re the IMS. Enjoy

Ready for an early start on eurotunnel - all packed up, bike in the back - no space in a C4, who says? Looking for a Porsche 1 - 2 win at the 84th Le Mans - go 919 Hybrid! (looking forward to see Ford in their comeback too)...

Ha, travelling back to Blighty tomorrow am after Nordschliefe and Spa, will wave if we see you!

350 discs and gt3 6 pot callipers fitted, changed the rubber drive shaft donut, made new cooper brake hoses. Also fitted breaded hoses. Then changed the front transfer box oil. Getting her ready for silverstone

So 2 month into ownership and loving it, First niggle - i had the aircon regassed, but its blowing hot air... From a quick search it might be the compressor, the compressor icon on the main air con unit does not come on (or off) when i turn it on or off. I will take it to a specialist next week to get checked over. Does this sound like the culprit? And if so, what should i be budgeting.... From a quick look I seeing number like 750... (hoping its not going to be as much as that). Any help appreciated. I was going to try out Tower Porsche near Tower Bridge, heard good things about them and was thinking they will look after the car from here on in.

Region 31 organised a group visit last Saturday to Centre Gravity at Atherstone. It was suggested that my car would be an excellent example for a demonstration of checking wheel alignment on one of Centre Gravity's two Hunter HawkEye alignment systems. What I hadn't expected was that having put my 996 on the machine and carefully checked the readings, Chris Franklin then got his spanners out (including a specialised dedicated torque wrench for use on the locking bolts), went underneath the car and using his knowledge of what settings would be best (sports suspension and non-standard 19" wheels), used my car to demonstrate how it was adjusted! During this he also gave the underside the once over, pointing out the replaced wishbone that needed to be waxed to keep the cam from seizing, and a missing part of the front undertray which he happened to have and gave me for later fitting! Chris then went the even further extra mile and we took the car out for a short drive along part of his normal testing route and included many of the tests he would undertake with a paying customer to demonstrate the new geometry set-up, handling and make sure I was happy with it. The icing on the cake for me was that as well as a car that had now been set up by one of the country's leading experts, I was given a printout of the before and after settings to take away. Having now had the opportunity to drive the car for longer and over roads more known to me, I can say that it has made a noticeable difference. It was quite good to start with and my main concern had been with tyre wear but now it just feels so much more fluid, comfortable and confident going around corners at higher speeds. Chris said the toe-in at rear had been too much and would not only have been causing excessive tyre wear, it also meant higher fuel consumption and road noise. All that and they also provided our group with tea, coffee and pastries. What a great day (particularly for me!). Clearly they well deserve their reputation as the leading alignment specialists. We spent the full day there from 10am to 5pm. If you get the opportunity for a visit it is well worth it. I'll be enjoying my car even more now.

A very good friend of mine is in biggin hill in Kent he has just recharged my car and knows his stuff. And he doesn't take advantage of people. ie air con specialist just years of experience. Message me if your interested.

Well after picking up our first water cooled Porsche this week we have spent the day giving a little TLC after the last owner had stored her for 5 years, ticked off the obvious oily bits first and it's certainly been a long day [ ] all oils and filters front & rear discs front & rear pads, sensors, clips etc coil packs & plugs heat shields milltek exhaust and new tips unblock drain plugs steam clean engine bay and cab roof detail tomorrow to start the detailing of the body

Welcome to 996 ownership Robin That one hell of a days work, I hope you enjoy the driving when you get round to it. Great cars

Indeed but very satisfying, we have a local car show at Baston this weekend where they are celebrating flat 6 so trying to get her ready for that

is this a convertible (Not sure if the coupe has them) if so don't forget to clear the drain hole at the front of the rear wheel arch (take off the wheel and there are three plastic nuts and behind there is the drain) Remove the plastic cover and clear this out. YOu may need to take the rear speaker off and again there is a piece of plastic to protect the back of the speaker and make sure the drain hole is not blocked I have clear my drain holes by the Battery out every year but missed these EITHER Don't forget to REMOVE the FRont Bumper (PU) and clear the leaves behind and around the radiator This wil take about an hour the first time you do it - 1/2 and hour once you have done it Also remove the Rear PU and check for corrosion around the rear metal bumper. Again about 1/2 first time - it now takes me 15 minutes!! Bit late now but check Prices ALWAYS with your local Porsche DEaler first Then EuroCar parts for GENUINE parts ENJOY

Air Conditioning Price might be helpful My local F1 centre charged (if you will exclude the Pun) 25.00

Thank you and yes this is cabriolet. will make sure we cover all the drains and not our first Porsche as we have a few in the collection with different part suppliers for each, most of the older stuff comes from Roger Bray or Sierra Madre (well before the pound disappeared...)

new gt3 callipers 350 discs all round and lepsons did a great job on the wheels, acid dipped , powder coated sprayed sparkle silver a little lighter than the standard colour

Its one of those jobs that doesn't appear in any of the bloggs Really very easy You also need to check the level of the convertible hood hydraulic fluid OPen it half way and release the two clips that allow you to release the back window (Hopefully we are talking about the plastic window one) Remove the cover over the back (4 clips) Then you should see a little plastic window in the middle of a aluminium unit If it needs topping up you need to get the proper Porsche oil It just makes it work better MAKE SURE YOU PUT THE CLIPS BACK ON THE REAR WINDOW otherwise you might damage to sides of the window PS Where are you

I've purchased for my c4s martini strip for part or ear ,roof and bonnet saw it in a mag I thought it looked great will post some pics. Hope I've done the right thing

Putting on my spare pu which has just been repainted

My system2 just turned up bargin buy

You'll find it a very useful tool on a 996. Bear in mind it is 20 year old computing technology though. It runs on Windows for Workgroups 3.11! A lot of KTS500's are turned into PST2s, as they aren't much good for anything else. It is a nice system to use though, and although the processor is slow by modern standards, the software has very small demands, so they run very nicely.

Thanks Richard have helped a couple of friends already.

Back from OPC Leicester today after having 2 new keys/fobs and everything reprogrammed, very reasonable cost and can now lock the car [ ]

Well a successful day so far. Delayed a week due to Big Blue having a knackered battery but a bit of car swapping action after the purchase of a new Bosch S5.

Well today/tonight I think i managed to find and fix my aircon pipe leak and I ordered a new resistor to sort my drivers side rad fan at a grand total of £2.60. I done the same on my Boxster previously and its a heck of a lot less than the £70 per side to buy the OEM resistor !

Hope this works

Looking forward to seeing it in the flesh next week.

what was the coist please for New Keys

Need to get mine replaced. How much did they cost, if you don't mind me asking?

They were £285 including the reprogramming for both, took about 40 mins and got a free full health check as well

Light detail of paintwork to remove sap from last trip out and before Silverstone Classic on Friday. Also, re-sprayed hood and engine bay release handles on drivers side - looking much tidier now. Waiting for lacquer to cure, job done.

rads gone... had to replace both - nasty shock on price! Took the opportunity to pop a gill behind the bumper to stop stone chips damaging the new ones

Out for a drive with the Cayman fan boys - after a break with full english breakfast

Had to remove the modified Dansk Sport silencers as the left hand unit has developed a rattle. Back on with the originals, gave the heat sheilds, bumper and rear end a good clean whilst it was all apart. Now to see if the Dansk box can be opened up and repaired, never thought it was loud but it is so, so quiet with the originals back in place .

I had to send my Dansk mufflers back and get a new pair sent out as my left one also started rattling !! The company that I bought them from were very good although I'm still waiting to claim back the cost for replacing the faulty ones with.new ones from Dansk , but I do like the sound of them.

Thanks but unfortunately I can't send mine back as a couple of months after fitting them and deciding it wasn't really any louder I took them off and did this. Gundo Hack, did the trick noise wise, sounds great. Not too loud at tick over, just right with a purposeful bass at low revs and part throttle, then a proper scream when you floor it. And thankfully all achieved without any annoying drone on the motorway. But of course at the cost of any sort of warranty or comeback on Dansk for this later issue with the Baffle. I will be cutting it open later this week, expecting to find the tack welds to the baffle plate on the exit trumpet to have cracked. Hopefully we can retack these and weld the box back up and have it back on the car soon.

Good old shine up

took it to the R10 monthly meet at Sharnbrook Hotel & Vesuvio Restaurant and met a few new members

It couldn't get much shinier than it was when I parked next to it at Silverstone on the Saturday.

Thanks kevin

Today fitted my gt3 cup splitter and fitted a new low pressure Aircon pipe (the long front to rear one) it was corroded and leaking under the clamps. Not an easy swap as you need to pull out the carbon canister and move the fuel tank filler out of the way to feed the pipe into the scuttle area.

Fitted some new parts. As a comparison the state of one of the old coil pack heat shields compared to a new one is shown in the photo. This was one of these jobs that is not technically difficult but takes a surprising time to do. Getting the forward bolt removed is simple but the rear bolt was much more awkward. My socket set would turn just 1 notch each time to undo the old bolt / tighten the new one due to the limited access. Second job was to fit a new horn. Again not technically difficult but had to accept I was not going to get the job done without removing the bumper. Supposedly you can replace the high pitch horn without removing the bumper but that probably assumes the nut has not been sat in place for 13 years. It is certainly a lot easier to apply the required leverage with easy access to the nut. Lastly fitted the two missing rubber grommets under the airbox. I would not mind betting a fair percentage of 996s are missing these grommets as they are not that tight a fit on the two spikes on the underside of the airbox so could easily drop off when removing it. Regards

I can get my front PU of in 30 minutes so its not a difficult job Hope you cleaned the leaves out around your radiators I was surprised how cheap the spark plug covers where direct from Porsche they really do offer good prices sure they where under 30.00 for both Thanks for the info PS MY air box grommits where fine

You work faster than me: I think it was nearer 45 minutes to get the front PU off. It felt like most of that was spent teasing the plastic plug type fasteners out of the wheel liners. I had cleaned the radiators out a couple of months back; wish I had noticed the horn was not working at that time (I only noticed when I had cause to use it at a cyclist who rode of the pavement in front of me). I agree about Porsche parts and their prices. I have had quite a few parts from OPC Glasgow this year. Always an efficient service and the price is often better than specialists.

You can buy the tool for the removal of the plastic studs makes it so much easier

Many specialists use OPS for supply so must add a bit to cover costs TRy EuroCar Parts they do Genuine Porsche parts often very reasonable It was the same when I had a (ur) quattro Always said to my fellow members try Audi first. New Dissy was 90 from Audi 200 from other sources Starter was the other way round

I changed mine and noticed that the one that's rottern bad at one end has a drain pipe that exists over the cover.

Is yours a Convertible if so make sure you remove the rear speaker covers and make sure the drain hole is not blocked (Both sides)

thanks, it's a coupe rather than convertible

Sunday just gone joined up with London Region with Edwina& Nick and a punch of other great friendly people. Started at 6.00am for a fantastic tour around Londons icon nick land marks and what a great tour it was. A very very well organised event with these guys and a great breakfast venue ending up in the Portabello Road. Thanks Ed n Nick a great event.

Changed my front strut top mounts, coffin arms and front trailing arms tonight and now the car feels like new wish I'd got my finger out and done it sooner!

Could make a big difference to your tyre wear Presume you got it re tracked REgards

Definitely get the geometry checked you would have definitely changed it.

Starting to 'fiddle' with the 996 to get it pristine... three small dents taken out today by Dean at Speedy Dent repairs in Nottingham... trusted this guy for 10 years with my cars.

Replaced all 6 ignition coils, not too bad a job if you don't mind you fingers getting filthy!! Now waiting for my 2 coil heatshields to turn up as the current ones are more rust than metal.

Today I had a Dansk Sport exhaust fitted to my Targa. The exhaust tone sounds a little more rich and deeper than the original. Very pleased with the result. Andy

I think mine was Dansk and it is still as good as the day I fitted it The one thing you need with an Exhaust is that it is not too noiy on a Mpotorway and this certainly is great on a motorway ENJOY

After having the new exhaust fitted and a service yesterday I treated my 996 to a wash, clay, polish and wax. Really enjoyed today even though it was hard work! Andy

Sounds like you had a hard day - lots of work doing the Clay. Then the other work You always feel as though you have done something Give mine the works tomorrow then of to Ben Nevis on Friday

Sounds like you had a hard day - lots of work doing the Clay. Then the other work You always feel as though you have done something Give mine the works tomorrow then of to Ben Nevis on Friday

Yes was hard, but enjoyable. I am sure the neighbours think I'm a little mad! Will be taking her on a run tomorrow as its suppose to be a nice day, just to clear her out a bit and also to find out what my new exhaust sounds like! Enjoy your trip to Ben Nevis. Andy

New tyres yey!

Preaching to the choir guys, it was booked in for the alignment before I even started I can't understand people who touch anything related to suspension and don't get their alignment checked afterwards. The 996 is super sensitive to alignment changes as I'm sure most of us should know.

bought a new wheel covered it with alcantara and fitted flappy paddles very pleased with the out come.

Now the back. Love a challenge

That's a nice retrim who did it ? Like the way they covered the rear hub as well, what have you done with the airbag cover, standard?

Mines been treated to a roof renovation using the Rennovo kit. Looks good!

Can we have photos anf more details please Richard

Paddles all done what a complete different drive

Well done sounds like you've had a successful day

transformed mine too - had a day at goodwood on monday and it was epic using them on track!! [link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sSjqgWjrdU8&feature=youtu.be]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sSjqgWjrdU8&feature=youtu.be[/link]

Hi Geoff found this guy in Sutton does a fantastic job. The air bag can be done he said but wanted to see if it bothers me first. He was doing a boxster consel etc with red stitching and it looked superb. I asked him to cover the rear because the wheel came of a Manuel boxster which was black also I didn't want to leave the tip button on. The drive is such a different pleasure now.

As you say nikmartin it's a total transformation btw loved the video clip. Going to goodwood next weekend for the carrea charity day

Thanks have the wheel just need to sort out the paddles and get it covered

The wiring is simple Geoff once the air bag has been disconnected you will have to reset it.

didnt have to reset anything on mine - was advised that if you- turn on ignition disconnect battery leave 10 mins before removing airbag reconnect airbag reconnect battery having done that twice mine seems to be all good without any intervention required

Just changed the two oil core plugs on the bottom of the heads. One had a slight weep so thought I'd do them both thanks Richard for the part number etc. Easy job but satisfying

Just had a major service and new brake fluid done at Porsche centre Portsmouth, it should of cost me £490 but with pcgb discount it only cost me £440 so therefore very pleased !!

Pics of my wheel all done very satisfied off to goodwood tomorrow

Went to Silverstone today & yesterday. On Friday listened to Derek Bell & John Fitzpatrick and today at the auction. Surprisingly the number of 996s being sold. The bargain has to be the first 996 uk press car with great story/history and condition Carrera 2 manual, hammer price, £15k [link=https://www.silverstoneauctions.com/1998-porsche-996-carrera-2]https://www.silverstoneau...-porsche-996-carrera-2[/link]

[/URL][/img] Fitted some Porsche projector Puddle lights

Hit a Pheasant a few weeks ago, I had to get the nose cone repaired and repainted so I decided to fit four projector lights for the high beem and fitted grills to the lower part of the opening.

Up close picture.

Sorry I cannot upload more than one picture at a time.

Ill have to take some good shots when the interior is complete, the I phone does not do it justice but it is a Marmite interior, here are the door plates done.

Refurbished my front seat with the furniture clinic kit I am over the moon with the result.

That is a lovely job they have done there, I have never driven an auto as you say I bet its a great drive with those paddles

Fitted LED rear lights [attachment=IMG_1500.JPG]

Lights on

New struts fitted to front lid and new end cap fitted to rear wiper. Passenger seat stripped back to frame - sport backs to be wrapped in satin grey and leather cleaned and conditioned.

Got a great deal on a lightened aasco billet aluminium flywheel and racing Sachs clutch

Would be nice to get some more info Sounds great What are you expecting from it all?

[/URL][/img][attachment=IMG_1554.JPG] Hi, Probably a jerky clutch and an erratic tick over,hee hee, na when I boot it from a standing start the clutch can slip now so it will eradicate this and the revs with pick up quicker and it will drastically reduce its moment of enertia for when I take it on the track, but you have to remember if the revs build up quicker they also drop quicker, it makes the car completely different to drive, some people if not use to this do not get on with a lightened flywheel.

The dark plate can be replaced when worn so you don't have to replace the whole flywhell these Americans really do make some good quality kit.

Side view.

Finally put all the screws back on the front bumper

Paul cars looking good,can't be much you've not changed or rebuilt by now

Cheers I love it some won't oh well, the next thing is engine out to fit clutch, flywheel, surfire coilp acks,Iridium plugs,air oil separator,oil presure switch,seals, manifolds, bolts and anything else that needs doing.

Hows comes you haven't joined the club yet. we have some great days out

I was a member last year and years ago, it just ran out and not got round to joining again, I will.

Bicester Scramble with R19 / PCGB last Sunday

What fun on the way home today via some snowy A roads through Mortimer, Berkshire! 996 Carrera 4 good as it gets...

Hi, I just wondered have you kept the wheel grey or black. Cheers Paul

Got home early while the cars in the air I removed arch liners and re under sealed them. All the engine is disconnected know ready to drop engine and tip box in one unit. Purchased the Ims solution and new rms I'm really enjoying it. These cars are designed so well I must admit so far it's been relatively easy.

The new Ims is in. The engines back in the car just fitted every under side. Just to fit exhaust etc rear bumper. Put some blood in her and see if she goes forward

This picture was taken two weeks ago on Sunday morning on a run out in Yorkshire for the Geeks Car Club (GCC). The weather wasn't ideal but we had a great time an a lovely breakfast and a great blast in the car. My C4S was joined by a Audi RS6 and a Mercedes C63s. They are both quick cars but the Porsche did well in such great company.

Removed both manifolds from my 996 Turbo with no snapped bolts. Pleased is an understatement! Just need a new gasket and then I can fit the other new manifold. Tax next week and back on the road

Well pleased with my self. I've fitted the Ims solution on my 2003 c4s the car was a pleasure to work on seeing as I'm a builder for a living. The design is absolutely brilliant the way it all unplugs and drops down. I have loads of pics and vids I can share if any body is changing any parts. Need a format though because it won't let me saying URL problem. If you need any pics etc message me and I can forward on

Fitted the other manifold. Gaskets are leaking slightly and as I am something of a perfectionist at times, I've just ordered a pair of new ones. Also not happy one or two bolts feel a bit loose so it'll be a Helicoil job when it all comes apart again. In addition, I have ordered some new stainless steel braided brake hoses.

Washing the car a few days ago I noticed that one of the twin oval chromed tail pipe tips moved a little. Closer inspection showed that the clamp had almost rusted through. A quick trip to my local garage sorted it out with a new clamp (the other had been done a year ago at which time the other had been passed as okay). The old one that came off had almost completely gone and probably hitting one of the numerous potholes around here would have seen the tip come off completely. So with a lot of our cars having seen a good few years and miles, the moral is to check your tips! Not only would it be dangerous for any car behind if it came off, they are surprisingly expensive to replace.

New brake discs and pads on all 4 corners plus a Dansk sports exhaust fitted... Thanks to the great team at Northway Porsche. Sounded great tootling home through Mortimer and Beech Hill. Not so great for the fuel economy as I didn't shift up as much as I would have done normally [ ]

Hi all, Took a drive over to North Weald on Sunday and took the attached photo in front of their Dakota. Regards Gerry

Bicester Heritage Scramble Sunday 23 April. Excellent day out and must have been around 200 Porsches there plus many other classic and performance cars . Bicester Heritage [link=http://bicesterheritage.co.uk/]http://bicesterheritage.co.uk/[/link] is worth the visit if you have the opportunity. [attachment=23 April 17 Bicester scramble.jpg]

Hi Steve, That looks like a successful event. I was at Silverstone last week with my son. We had a great time and the club spoilt us rotten. Pity about the result! All the best Gerry

Had Tiptronic filter and fluid service carried out by Cotswold Porsche after covering 73,000miles in my 2001 C4.....what a difference!!! finally got rid of the terrible grinding noise in 3rd, 4th, 5th at 15-1700rpm that's been annoying me since I've had the car from June last year. The cars is finally sorted and drives as it should. [ ]

Love this

Sold the Speed Yellow (going to miss it) but bought a C4S cabriolet instead so we have the best of both worlds, roof off and a 996!!! Still got the Boxster though. Beautiful 1 owner with full OPC history so we'll see. First outing marshalling for the Cotswold Rally which was a great event.[ ]

Nice one Nick Enjoy

Thanks Andy! Catch up somewhere soon, Silverstone Classic?

I know this topic popped up recently but it appears with a bit of elbow grease you can give faded headlamps an extended life My Porsche Carrera 4 has faded headlamps, - replacement HID Litronic headlamps being £1,949.55 each mg: :arrghh: Yellowy in appearance and when looking at an angle completely hide the projectors and bulbs So i started with an Autoglym restoration kit ([link=https://www.autoglym.com/headlight-restoration-kit]https://www.autoglym.com/headlight-restoration-kit[/link] that I bought at the classic car show earlier in the year Having masked the chrome high pressure washer cover it was a brave step to attach an 800 grit sanding disc to my battery drill and apply it - but the replacement costs spurred me on... followed up with 1500 grit... It looked bad and i started to wonder why I had done this to my car - didnt even warrant an advisory at a recent MOT.. then i moved on to 2000 grit followed by 3000 grit - there was light at the end of the tunnel (pun intended!) Finally a foam mop with polishing compound.. A quick buff up with a micro fibre cloth and this was the result.. Whilst not perfect the difference is stunning - need to start the next one now - lunch first tho!!

That is an amazing result , I also have Carrera 4 Gen 2 with an headlight very similar to yours that needs this sort of TLC just need the guts to have a go but the end result is amazing to be honest !!

Great work and amazing results, well done!

Went to Simply Porsche at Beaulieu Motor Museum in Hampshire this Sunday. Shame that it clashed with the Club BBQ! Weather was excellent and there was a large turnout of cars. For anyone who hasn't been to a meeting, hopefully here is a link to some photos that will give you a taste of the day. [link=https://flic.kr/s/aHsm1YwjGE]https://flic.kr/s/aHsm1YwjGE[/link]

Drove from the northeast (Hartlepool) to Italy this week in my 996 Targa can drove like a dream, if anyone ever suggests to you that these cars aren't reliable laugh loudly at them currently in Tuscany some great roads here, off to Rome next

Good to hear your 996 is performing well!! Have a great time, in a great car. I have had 4 Porsches, 2 Boxsters and 2 996s. All were faultless, and only needed normal maintenance. [ ]

This week saw a major service including diff oil change, coolant, drive belt, plugs, brake fluid etc etc then a quick trip to my local ATS to take advantage of their Groupon air conditioning offer. I thought the service from ATS was superb and the special offer they have on is great value at £32 as it also includes an anti-bacterial treatment. On a side note I also took some time to go round my Boxsters black plastics with some of KochChemie NanoMagicPlastCare...... It really works!! the lower windscreen trim looks like new and pleasingly, after 2 washes, still looks just as good, thank heavens, finally a plastic treatment that works and keeps blacks looking black.

Treated the car to a full major service and check over at JGC Porsche Specialist in Brackley. New plugs, brake fluid change, Mobil 1 etc. Courtesy car. Almost a clean bill of health - some coil pack corrosion described as a 2 out of 10, where 10 was the worst - however for 116k miles and driven in all weathers this is pretty good and the car continues to impress. James who runs JGC took photos to keep on file to monitor the situation at the next service and he impressed me with his knowledge and attention to detail. JGC came recommended to me by another POCGB member and now I can see why. This car still amazes me and gives me so much pleasure to drive!

Coolant change, got all 23 litres out and back in thanks too the guide over on rennlist [link=https://rennlist.com/forums/996-forum/737700-simple-3-step-complete-coolant-drain-updated-w-refill-procedure-water-pump-tips.html#post10175752]https://rennlist.com/forums/996-forum/737700-simple-3-step-complete-coolant-drain-updated-w-refill-procedure-water-pump-tips.html#post10175752[/link] Much simpler way of doing it.

Changed the radiator fan ballast resistors (green can type) and cleaned out the radiators. While in there I noticed that the O/S AC condenser had rotted at the bottom, the AC still worked but it needed to be changed, so I changed the condenser. Really easy job, but you do have to get the car de-gassed before you start. Not the best weekend to have disconnected the AC. I'll get it re-gassed this week as part of the annual service.

Guys, what did i do with my 996 C4s? I put it up for sale Sad times indeed - I love this car! [link=http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201707087186203?maximum-mileage=45000&radius=1500&sort=sponsored&advertising-location=at_cars&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&postcode=br12nb&model=911&aggregatedTrim=996%20Carrera%204S&make=PORSCHE&transmission=Manual&page=1]http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201707087186203?maximum-mileage=45000&radius=1500&sort=sponsored&advertising-location=at_cars&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&postcode=br12nb&model=911&aggregatedTrim=996%20Carrera%204S&make=PORSCHE&transmission=Manual&page=1[/link] If anyone is interested, just PM and let me know. Thanks. Mani

Sprayed badly painted bumper inlet satin black and fitted Zunsport grills in gloss black

Bought this one yesterday Spend the morning cleaning and finding my way around her ( I have just sold a boxster ) out around south suffolk this afternoon, runs beatifully

Hi , I have booked my 996 c2 2003 in with my local Indy to have the ims upgrade done and the rms , along with a new AOS and tiptronic gearbox service , the car runs absolutely fine and I've never had any issues with it but I'm just being cautious as I intend to keep it for the long haul , I've gone for the eps cylindrical bearing as this was recommended to me by my Indy as he says it is a "permanent " fix. So my question is has anyone else had this bearing fitted and if so would appreciate any feedback any thanks Gary.

Hi Gary ive just recently changed my its and rms in my c4s tip along with various other things while i had the engine and box out. i went for the ims solution oil fed bearing this is the only life time fix that ive read about and believe i did loads of reading and seeing reviews on the net. my old ims was single row and was fine with 48k on it. The main reason i changed it for the solution was for my own piece of mind seeing as i want a keeper also if times ever bad its a bonus for the resale of the car. Theres a few reasons while the bearings go as i read it. lack of oil changes, cars that stand around in garages and not used. Also the actual intermediate shaft design?. If your indy is telling you its a life fix what certification is he prepared to give or guarantee i bet the answer will be none. look at the solution and read about there guarantee. Choose wisely and don't listen to your pocket its a porsche.

Hi thanks for the speedy reply !! I believe the eps bearing is an oilfed bearing and it comes with a 2year warranty , and they claim that it's a permanent fix if you go on their website, the Indy sent me the link so I could read up about it myself so I hope it's ok ?

Took the car to Brands Hatch yesterday where they had a Deutsche fest event. There weren't very many Porsches there, mostly BMW's and VW's. It was a great day all the same, plenty of action on the track and plenty to see off it. The Paul Swift stunt show involved a superb Porsche display was well worth seeing. Took my car onto the track for a 15 minute taster session later in the day. Never again!!! On the first lap, an Audi TT in front of me, spun off into the gravel forcing me to break hard as it bounced back off the tyre padding toward the track, a quick glance in the rear mirror as I breaked hard revealed a VW spinning 360 degrees about 5 feet from my car. I was very, very lucky!! Thoroughly enjoyed the day though. Gerry

Hi , I've just had my ims bearing replaced and a new rms on my 996 c2 coupe 2003 allong with a few other jobs while the engine and tiptronic gearbox was out !! And just to let anyone know who's interested my car has done 95k and the bear was in perf condition so don't believe all you read about these cars

Hi there ,so you had the ims and yours is a tip , I was going to have mine done , but was quoted £2000 plus any extras ,an I thought , no I'm not lol , my car is a 1999 c4 cab and it's done 70,000 , it's had a service every 2,000 miles oil change filters gearbox oil , the lot , I love the car and would have liked to have done the bloody ims , but the engine has to come out on the tiptronic models, and t thought this is too much of a trauma for my old classic car lol , i laughed when you said the old ims was ok , but you just never know do you ,you have peace of mind now though . Anyway bloody great cars I love mine as I'm sure you do , happy porsche driving mate . all the best frank .

Hi Frank I changed my own ims bearing for the ims solution. this is a oil feed solid bearing like the old air cooled models. My c4s is a tip so I had to drop the lot in one. Took me a week doing after work hours. I found the whole project very satisfying and I've learned so much about this car. The old bearing was a single row one and I did have some play from side to side. So yes I'm glad I've changed it and yes the ims solution is around 1400 incl much cheaper than a rebuild. If you need a chat pm me and I'll send my number. simon

Thanks Simon thats really nice of you , I wish I had the know how to attempt that sort of engineering feat lol . But yes would be great to have a chat to you as your very knowledgable with these cars . I'm in Kent are you anywhere near Simon . Thanks frank .

Not a very exciting post but thought that after working abroad for 10 days, the first thing I did after arriving home was to drive my 996 C4S...always a good experience after not driving it for a while.

I had the pleasure once again to join with one of the Cotswolds Region's (R31) monthly Sunday meetings. The sun shone and the Gateway Hotel in Burford again hosted us and provided coffee and nibbles while we filled their car park with about 20 Porsches. Next outing is the Cornbury House Xmas open day this coming weekend so see you there. Looking forward, I didn't go on the Cotswolds Rally in 2017 but it's a definite for 2018.

Nice pic and plate Steve Have you changed your rear light clusters? If so, what did you change them to?

Couldn't resist the plate! It'll be staying with me if I ever change the 911 for another (although very happy with what I have). The rear lights are LED but were on it when I bought the car so I cannot tell you what make they are. Same with the fronts - just makes the car that little bit different. See it in the flesh at the Club Xmas open day.

look good

What did I do today? Not for me the drive across empty moorland roads in the crisp winter air, feeling the perfect chassis balance through a set of curves. I picked up the spruce for Christmas, proving the point that the 'posh Beetle' is not too posh to still pull it's weight. [attachment=IMG-0114.JPG]

Hi to all, Not been on for ages and I’m sorry for that, but back in October I had the 996 repainted and it looks new again, I took it apart and rebuilt it again, I absolutely love it. For months before I restored and rebuilt the whole of the underneath of the car and upgraded what I could. sorry cannot upload a pic for some reason.

I only bought it yesterday so probably can't comment on what I've done to it as I won't pick it up for about another week It's a 996 3.4 with 29K on the clock so I guess it won't need a lot of work doing but I do intend to take it to CG to have the suspension looked at. Apart from that I won't be doing a lot to it.

Hi Toby A very warm welcome to the club and to 996 ownership. Enjoy the ride and post a photo when you can. Kind regards Andy

Hi all, I popped into the new Porsche centre in Sidcup for an hour or so. The staff were really friendly and helpful and they have a great selection of cars to look at too. The 1980 Porsche 924 Le Mans was there on display as well, great to see it in the flesh. Well worth a visit if you're in the area. Gerry

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Thanks Andy. I pick it up on Wednesday from Mortimers in Billingshurst. Hope to have some pics up soon after.

Hello all, Short term reader, shorter term owner, first time poster! I cleaned and treated my hood, for its trip out to PCGB HQ for the open day on 4th March, where I hope to sign up as a full member and meet a few new people! Stupidly, I didn't take any pics and now it's back in the garage, so here's some from the weekend I got it, late last year. Look forward to sharing hints tips and ownership quirks with people Thanks, Mark

Hi Mark A very warm welcome and hope your enjoying your 996. I will be at the clubhouse open day in the morning be nice to catch up if we can. Enjoy the ride. Kind regards Andy

Such a beautiful day that I took mine bird watching again!

Thank you. I'll make myself known and come and find you See you soon Mark

I take it you weren't the winning bidder of your sister plate that was on sale yesterday?!

Not me. Wouldn't mind getting "POR 911" if it exists and is ever up for sale - not that I could afford it!! I suspect I could buy a holiday cottage for the price of that one.

Used my new under body Karcher cleaning attachment for the first time, just to get off any possible salt that may have stuck recently. I've only driven when roads have been dry, but there had been white visibility on the roads, from previous salt treatments. Not sure how good a job I did, but made sure I spent a decent amount of time. The front was the trickiest, due to what looks like some under side flaps underneath making it more difficult to move. As the care was relatively clean, a pH neutral snow foam, then rinse, then a wash with Maguiers wash and wax. Dried off with some towels, then two coats of Maguiers Liquid Wax, two dressing of their tyre gel too Light isnt great, but It looks good and paint is smooth as All ready for the open day now, unless it rains on Friday, as I have to take it out of the garage to have a side door fitted, before getting an electric garage door fitted (However, spotted a lot of chips today, and a mark in the passenger side sill that I think may need work before maybe getting the main door done)

That looks absolutely stunning!

Thank you! It took me a while I always find I can never get my pictures to look like my car actually looks, so am glad it comes across that way. Cheers [ ]

Well this weekend I delivered my C4S to Hartech in Bolton. Had the car for sale last summer as after 3.5 years ownership I was looking to move on to something newer. I had a sale agreed pending a Pre Purchase Inspection which the potential owner arranged at Brookspeed in Southampton who unfortunately found borescore on cylinder 6. The sale understandably fell through although he did make an offer to take it as was with the borescore and looking back it was a fair offer but I was so crestfallen by the whole thing I couldn’t think straight. It was an absolute shock to find my otherwise immaculate and fastidiously maintained 996 had borescore. The car runs absolutely fine, lots of power, no strange noises and no smoke on start up and no obvious signs of it drinking oil. So after some months of soul searching as to what to do I decided I am getting the engine rebuilt. It makes no financial sense as unless values take a serious step up I’ll never recoup the outlay but I couldn’t in good faith sell it as is. Won’t let it go for cheap but also just knowing it has a problem was eating away at me and ruining my enjoyment of the car. So i’m keeping it, I have no real issue with Keeping it, it’s a great car and I was only thinking of selling as I wanted to try a newer more powerful 911 so giving the car a full engine rebuild, not just the damaged cylinder gives me the option to upgrade which should help hold my interest in the car for the future. Assuming the strip down and inspection goes well I’m Looking at the 3.9 litre upgrade. Turning what was a seriously disappointing situation into an opportunity to upgrade and improve a fantastic car. It is going to be a long (and expensive) couple of months I’m without the car but I am very excited now as to what it’s going to be Like when I collect it.

Blanked off the resonator in the airbox. Hoping for a bit more induction noise.

German and British engineering at its best [ ] Went to Dunsfold to see Vickers VC10 ex-East African Airlines converted to RAF tanker. Start-up and taxi, plus on-board view. After Concorde retired, this effectively was the fastest transatlantic commercial airliner in service - a record still held today.

Technically, I didn't do anything with it directly, however, I did just book into the Bicester Sunday Scramble on 22nd April See you there, if you're going [link=https://www.porscheclubgb.com/regions-registers/regions/south-east/cotswold/events/2018/april/bicester-heritage-sunday-brunch-scramble]https://www.porscheclubgb...sunday-brunch-scramble[/link]

Just had my wheels refurbished & colour changed by Wheel Genie in Huntingdon. I love the darker centres offset by the Smokey chrome rim.[attachment=IMG_20180322_094510.jpg]

They look nice

Hi all, I also had my wheels refurbished this year at Lepsons in Kent. I stuck with the original colour. I have to say that they did a marvellous job. Gerry [/img]

Another view of the sport design wheels.

They are lovely looking wheels, but a complete pain to keep protected and clean. Not sure I would use them for Winter use.

Well bit the bullet and had a go at replacing split oil filler tube On my 2000 C4. All parts - tube, seals and bolts all around £50 from OPC. Previous glued before and lasted about 12months but this time decided to tackle head on. Read up and studied lots of YouTube howtos before hand.... well took about 3 hours in total with airbox, belt and alternator having to come out and then the tricky 2x tube bolts - a stubby 10mm spanner came in very handy. Replacement tube looked to slightly thicker and hopefully will last. Satisfied with result.

I took mine to CG for a geometry check. Adjusted toe out and lowered pressures and it’s a vast improvement. Going back to have new bushes fitted and some rear end adjustments to make the car more neutral. Can’t praise Chris and his team highly enough.

Took the car to the PCGB Breakfast event. Saw a couple of 996 and 986. Had a nice time.

Took it out of the garage for a spin, having been away for 3 weeks and it being sat for a week or two before, but, it didnt start! Luckily, it was only a battery replacement needed, despite being on a ctek trickle charger almost since i got it in April. New battery in, and took it to blow some cobwebs away. Thankfully I tried it before Sunday, else Id have missed the Scramble

Boring I know, but as a daily driver it's important... sailed through it's MOT this morning, no advisories. Happy days!

Do you recommend the Meguiers? I've never used their stuff but have heard good reports. I've used the Demon snow foam which is a bit "meh" but on a relatively clean car does the job. Has anyone used the Dodo Juice products at all?

Changed the oil pressure sender after getting those signals everyone talks about. Then gave her a nice clean, got the top down and went for a lovely drive...loving the car...

Yes, the stuff is good, but, Ive not had my car really 'dirty' to see what the reults would be like, and it is currently Maguiers Liquid waxed too. That stuff is so easy to use. Personally, Im no expert, there may be better stuff, but Im pleased with the results its given me Not tried ay dodo, despite recently reading about it here recently

Took it to Sunday Scramble! Thank you, Google, for auto enhancing my snap! (although I did reduce its size)

Very nice - great pic! Having had the sail through the MOT on Friday, my alternator packed up yesterday (Sunday). Got it to Northway's this morning and Ray managed to order and fit a new alternator within about 3 hours from me arriving and in and amongst all other jobs that they had on today. As always, great service from Ray and the gang there. It was the original alternator that came off the car - so 14 years old and just over 51k miles. I can handle that if I get the same life from the new one.

Took the C4S for MOT today , she passed and with No advisories

Had the steering wheel re-trimmed by Royal Steering Wheels......excellent workmanship [attachment=IMG_0155.JPG]

Looks great. I’ve seen a few people who have had work done by them And it always comes out well.

Nice wheel. Having felt a wheel that had been re-done and thickened recently, very tempted to have mine done and padded out a bit. One of the few reasons I bought a 996 over a 997, was the 997 steering wheel was about as thick as an ear bud, I hated it. All I did was top down and a run to the shops to get ice creams!

Exhaust tips. After reading and replying to a thread in the Cayman section, I took Autosol and some 000 wire wool to my exhaust. Maybe more elbow grease is needed, but I managed to get the black soot off of the bottom of both pipes, but not as much 'inside' the tips. I still cant seem to upload multiple pictures to show before and after, even using Flickr too as suggested in the Tips bit

I'm sure the inside is meant to be black. I think your coating has chipped/peeled rather than being sooted.

B**ger. I was in two minds as to whether it had been, but the right set in the photo, silver patched were coming through, so assumed soot rather than coating. No issue wither way, but thanks for the likelyhood

My 997.2 Turbo exhausts were a right state when I bought it a year ago. After many attempts to bring them back to life I finally gave up and had them re-chromed. Unfortunately the re-chroming process didn't manage to fully chrome the insides of the tips. In the end I too a Dremmel to the insides of the pipes and took them back to the bare stainless steel. They look amazing now, although they do need a quick polish with Autosol every couple of weeks. Simon

Well as this is 'Service month' for my car the list is long.... but satisfying[ ] Small service, new 200cell big bore Topgear cats, new exhaust bolts/brackets/clamps throughout, 4x new O2 sensors, new OEM rear discs, Textar rear pads, Pagid handbrake shoes, new wear sensors, new pad pins/springs/bolts, 2x new Osram Nightbreaker UNLIMITED D2S bulbs, 3x new Bosch wiper blades, new K&N air filter cone cover, headlamp polish and seal, air conditioning service/re-gas/ new drier and anti-bac. Followed by a couple of coats of Swissvax "best of show", Gliptone leather clean and finishing treatment ( love that smell!!) and a polish then wax of the wheels with a couple of coats of 'Rim wax' to finish.

Well today I finally got around to replacing the oil pressure sender unit on my C4S , I've had an intermittent fluctuating gauge for the last few months now, so after checking the contacts were ok I decided to replace the sender unit , and what a little S#!T it was too , yes it's accessible with a crows foot and an extention from under the car , but it was solid to move and almost stripped the nut trying , but with a little perseverance and a bruised hand it moved. On top of that one of the bolts had sheared when removing the rotten heat sheild that guards the coil packs. I've ordered a new shield and will address this tomorrow evening

Today, sadly nothing other than looking forward to having her back. She’s still at Hartech, been 10 weeks now!

Ten weeks with Hartech? Wowzers!! What kind of timetable did they offer you?

6 weeks was mentioned when I booked it in. Although to be fair to them they’ve been cagey about the time frame from the start. Not sure if this is normal or because I’m having the Displacement increased. Either way with weather like this it would be nice to have it back.

I took my C4S out for a blast (very quickly before it rained , garage queen and all that this car never fails to impress me , I've driven many cars over the years from various Mercedes , Ferrari 360 , Aston Martin DB9 and so on , but there's something about a 911 that's so solid and so tight to drive , I can't see myself deviating to any other brand or model . long live the 911.

Today I replaced the “Horse shoe“ dash panel around the centre heater vent do to the old panel being scratched by previous owners and this was letting the interior down as the rest is almost mint. The panel is Genuine Porsche from a main dealer and cost £50 to replace.

Collected my car from Hartech, met and spoke with Barry in the process. Thank you Barry for your time and advice. The car has had a complete engine rebuild and conversion to 3.9ltr [link=https://flic.kr/p/25UgqKJ] [/link][link=https://flic.kr/p/25UgqKJ]F107854D-F2D0-4A98-8662-54EC5F9CAB3B[/link] by [link=https://www.flickr.com/photos/156562334@N04/]Ian Roberts[/link], on Flickr Hartech are in Bolton and I live on the South Coast so I am taking the long and scenic route back over the next few days through the Dales, Snowdonia, the Breacon Beacons and the New Forest to reacquaint myself with the car and familiarise myself with this new bigger, broader torque curve she now has.

Changed over the rear light clusters. Three reasons, one protect them from further decay, two repair one that has a persistent condensation issue, 3 update the look. Before and after....

Nice, like that look Have you kept the originals, in case yo sell and new owner wants to go back to stick?

Yup. Always keep the bits taken off for future options.

Thursday, took the car to Witney Motor Show for the evening, hello again to those that were there Today, just got back from Autofarm, following a headlight polish, to bring the lights back from yellow, to new! Can't believe the difference it has made. Very happy with the results. I know, after watching it be done, that this is something I could have done myself, but I didn't have the tools really. Could have gotten hold of them, but glad someone with more experience did it for me. Will leave a week for the wax/polish they used to setle, then apply a plastic UV coating protection. Any suggestions?

And after

Just bought a TopGear Mild exhaust system and their 200 cell cat. My current system is now 17 years old and needs to be done before the MoT so might as well get a decent set up fitted.

Despite having only had her back for a little over a week I had to get the tools out today to swap out the starter motor. Simple job made difficult due to access. Pulling the Alternator really helped. [link=https://flic.kr/p/27D2XTT] [/link]

Here today in WA its mid winter a cool 22Deg C so out in the car for a drive round the Swan Valley and Perth hills, sun roof open and not a cloud in the sky![ ]. Got to be better than a UK winter anytime. Just had a 4 wheel alignment done all good and drives like it should at $88 (£50) its a bargain and yes it was done right as well on same equipment as Porsche they do race set ups as well.

Yes I did my starter, was a fiddly job a bit like you see the vets checking the inners of a cow out on the Tv. But on the plus side it made a big difference to starting the car when warm which was the result I wanted!

Two new tyres, meaning the old Bridgestones from the front are now two new Mich PS4s, matching the rears! I know there is a placebo effect, but it did feel better on the road too, but as I think I stated in the Tyres thread, when we investigated the slow pressure loss, the tyres were 7 years old and cracking in the treads. Next for the windscreen chips to be done, before Beaulie at start of August

Detailing yesterday and today (well, as best I can). The usual snow foam, rinse, two bucket wash method, rinse and towel dry (by dragging or flapping rather than rubbing). Then a Meguiars Quick detailer cover, as it was waxed last time out. Poor boys world wheel sealant back on the wheels too, along with meguairs tyre gel. Also as the weather is getting hotter and its a cab, I got round to finally applying the 303 (UV protectant and dirt/dust resistor) to the internal dash, doors and I even did the seats, and the blue leather has come up a really nice darker blue. It's a bit shiny, but gave the cabin a new look. I applied to the cloth each time, I didnt spray directly on to the leather. I went to apply the Stonechip covers (that also has a strong UV property according to Aliath) but made a pigs ear of it, as you can see from the finger prints. If anyone has done this on a 996 headlight, Id appreciate some tips, or for you to do it lol For now, I have put a couple of coats of 303 on the lights to stop any new yellowing. I still cant believe the difference having the lights sanded and polished makes. Today will be taking the wheel sealant off (I allow it to dry overnight) and trying out Meguairs Plast RX for the rear lights and strip. A test area yesterday, did take a level of dull off and some minor swirls (that you could only see up close and really looking)

Presume you sprayed some water with a couple of drops of washing up liquid on the film and headlight? you wont do it if they are dry and it will end up a wrinkled mess.

Unfortunately, I did do it dry! Didn't see a detailed set of instructions that came with it. Aliath were very good and sent me out another though ad am now waiting until I have a quiet house and time to do it, with no distractions

[attachment=IMG_1326.JPG] Not today as such, but whilst having the service done a couple of weeks ago, decided to have front rad grills fitted by Kev Waterhouse at DW Performance. An excellent and smart job. [attachment=IMG_1296.jpg]

These look great , I'm going to fit these too they look better and practical too.

I think they look very smart and no cutting of the original veins Have already been effective with rubbish/leaves being caught

It's a job, I want to do, and have the grills for (well, a large sheet of similar metal to be cut). Are these metal or plastic do you know? Looks good

Good question. Think they are plastic coated metal or plastic

I've just ordered some of the Aliath films for my headlights as am just starting on restoring mine - they are showing very little signs of yellowing, but there is some beginning to appear and also a few scratches. Am also ordering the 3M restoration kit and will do the sanding and polishing myself. On a related note, the Meguiars Plast-RX does have some effect, but it only seems suitable for really fine, shallow scratches on the plastic.

Great day out at the show at Helmingham Hall in Suffolk with everyone from R12 Hard top on and air-con running.

Not today, exactly, but took it back to RPM over the weekend for it's MOT and some work under warranty (starter motor keeps sticking, they are going to rebuild it). Some nice countryside on the way, as I drove through Oxon, Bucks and Herts Got to have a look at it from underneath, as I took it to one of their Saturday Surgeries where they can advise on any work or you can ask them for their thoughts on things etc. Technician was very pleased with the way the car handled and steered and said it was a nice tight example of a 996. Underneath was spotless. No signs of dirt, oil, or leaks of any kind and I was surprised at the amount of plastic guards covering a lot of under body too, which was nice to see. Hope to pick it back up next weekend, but it's odd. I don't drive it daily, but miss seeing it in the garage when I go out to the booze fridge, lol. Still, I can at least make use of the space to re-arrange tools, cleaning kits and other things that need a tidy up or new home.

Well the weekend went well, we travelled up to Staffordshire on Friday night and settled in (That means food and beer were tested) at the hotel. Then on Saturday after breakfast we drove North West into Snowdonia National Park. Weather was hit and miss but by the time we got to Blaenau Ffestiniog it was raining so we stopped for lunch and decided on a narrow gauge railway trip on the 'Ivor the engine' line heading for Porthmadog. Following on from this the fog was still wet so we diverted East to the Horseshoe pass and stopped for tea at the Pondorosa cafe. They had recent hill fires here but it was all reopened despite the fire brigade still being present in numbers on the mountain. At this stage the sun came out making for a lovely afternoon Following this we headed back to the hotel on great roads (sweeping and quiet) we passed the The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct which looked amazing in the sunshine a feat of engineering for sure. Today we came home via Monmouth valley and Tintern Abbey before the busy drive East up the M4 back to home. The 996 went very well in the mountains and was a pleasure to drive. I saw as many GT2 as I did speed traps (4) in fact I saw 4 x more modern GT2 than I did other 996 (4 - 0)

Nice. Whats the dashcam? It looked quite wobbly, but wasnt sure if that was the roads, or maybe less stable because of the lack of roof? Am looking at one (Nextbase Duo I think after recommendations) so was wondering, ta.

It's a next base 412 GW The vibration was a mount issue, as it had come loose.

Meant to add, I have a couple of Nextbase dash cams and they are good quality and easy to use. You need to buy a micro sd card in addition and I normally set the sensitivity to low as the bumps and holes tend to register as impacts, which fills up the memory card. Otherwise all good. I have one with no GPS tracker and one with which also records speed and location. I also run a motorola dash cam which is simple and okay and was cheap - again no GPS on that one.

Was looking at dash cams as well. Would be interested to know if the nextbase duo sees ok through the back window? Was looking at the 412 but would consider the duo as well

Picked her back up from RPM yesterday, after MOT and some warranty work. So happy with the remedial things they covered for me under warranty too (washer light came on and off intermittently, despite being full and fuel filler cap had never locked, but I didn't know) but the main thing was the re-build of the starter motor. For those that ever heard it, it never sounded good. Cannot fault the time and work they put in for me, but happy to have her back for the BH weekend

Hi all, Had my OEM mufflers replaced with Designtek supremacy ones at Design911. The car sounds great now, much improved over the originals and brings a broad smile to my face every time that I'm in it. Gerry

HI Gerry I'm in the process of looking for replacement mufflers , was going for the Dansk super sound but heard of poor quality issues , think il take a look at those of yours , maybe see if they are on youtube . Mark

Hi Mark Before I bought the car, RPM replaced the PSE with a Miltek exhaust, and that sounds great. Not sure what you're in the market for Mark

Hi Mark Well just a really nice deep sound yet not too load , I'll take a look at yours too , just looking on design 911 as we speak , the designtek is currently on offer at just £520 so I really need to get my order in tomorrow I think . Oh decisions decisions .... So many on the market I wish I could just sample them all in a row then make my choice. Mark

Hi Mark, The exhaust has a much deeper sound than the OEM exhaust but isn't as loud as the super sound exhaust. That said, it makes a great noise at about 3500 rpm on acceleration. I didn't want something too loud and the supremacy is about right for me. I'm in Kent if you are near and want to see/hear it before you take the plunge. I'll see if I can put a sound recording on here. Gerry

Thank you Gerry that's very good of you , I'm up in Nottingham and very rarely get much time to venture a far , I'm going to look on Youtube and compare , but if I'm honest yours sounds right up my street . I'l let you know how I get on .

Hi Mark, I can't put a sound recording on here but if you email me at:- gedburke3ATyahooDOTcoDOTuk I will send you a recording. Cheers Gerry

Slightly worried about making this thread a little OT so will record tomorrow for you if not too late, and PM you Mark

Just replaced mine with a Miltek, great sound

Been down in the 996 for the photo session and then onto the BBQ at Saturdays Pre Porsche at Brands Hatch event yesterday. All good with the car running great and looking well in the sunshine and then the run home on the M25 in the night time - was bit like an old sega mega drive game.. Dodging the gantry cameras to avoid a penalty, watching out for the rogue vehicle changing lane or the motorcycle weaving between the cars at speed. During the day it had been great watching the cars out on the short track especially the Boxsters flying round doing 50 second laps (not quite as quick as the Vw Passats doing high 40's ) The evening was good as well, nice food, a couple of Heineken zeros over dinner along with some great conversation from other members and more formal short interviews from Nick Tandy, Magnus Walker and Richard Attwood. A nice Saturday all in. Thanks Porsche GB.

Whilst you were all enjoying Brands, I went to Blenheim for Purely Porsche. Great turn out, and lots of first for me: Braham 62, Konisegegege or however its spelt, couple of F40s and and F50, that I haven't seen in a while. A fully electric supercar thing, that looks 30 years ahead of its time. Lovely day and lovely setting. Shame my phone died, leaving me with only one of mine, but lots of other peoples!

I did the same. Thoroughly enjoyed the day. A great drive up to the main parking area. Great Palace and gardens as well.[attachment=IMG_2307.JPG]

The drive...

I have just bought an LA Power Bluetooth and music streaming kit off eBay. It is much like the Dension but £120. I was a bit sceptical but it has allowed me to stream music via Bluetooth and also make calls in the Fibre optic system. I am really pleased an it was pretty much plug and play.

Hi Rob ive been looking at these, did you install next to the cd changer or behind the pcm unit? Thanks Rob Regards Andy

Hi Andy i installed led next to the CD changer as having done the research looked like the easier option as you just plug fibre optic cable out of CD changer straight in to back of the new unit. The only other thing to do was get power from a permanent live, tapped from the cd changer power. The other option involved taking out the pcm and also tweaking the optical circuit. Not a confident auto electrician so did not want to risk doing something detrimental to the circuit. So so far so good really pleased with it. let me know if you want any more details. Cheers Rob

Thanks Rob Ive ordered one.........I will let you know how i get on. Andy

Went to Chronos and Cars on Sunday, so a motorway trip there and back, but, a blast around some roads in the Theale, Pangbourne and Sulhampstead area after. Was nice to see a selection of visitor Porsches and other cars, as well as a few 996s, mainly 4s's One of the highlights for me, was the original Fiat 500, complete with picnic basket on the boot, doubling its storage capacity, lol. Really was a well kept lovely looking car, and unbelievably tiny

Given the car a bit of a spruce up ahead of going up to Ragley tomorrow. First time I've used Meguiars products and am pretty pleased with the results. It's a daily driver so I'm not too hung up on the road rash but it's nice to get some of the proper dirt off every now again.

Erica had her graduation in Cambridge yesterday, so, took two days off for that. Got back at lunchtime with the afternoon to spare and Erica back to the office, and with the sun out, was no reason not to go topless for a few miles! After that, tried some new cleaning products and methods, feel free to try for yourselves: New approach number one: Windshield cleaning. Cleaned the screen, which wasn't terribly dirty, just buggy, with a spray of water and a very tiny tiny drop of washing liquid, just as a de-greaser for the bugs. Sprayed directly onto windshield to wipe away road dirt and bugs and keeping liquid clear of paintwork. Rinsed off with water. Next, sprayed with water for lubricant for the 'normal' Bilt Hamber Clay bar. Had seen a video recently and decided that I couldn't feel too much sap etc or ground in dirt, but felt my windows sometimes let me down. So, a left to right, then up and down on the windshield with a clay bar. Could feel some areas that needed it and it did grab areas where there's evidence of indent into the glass. Rinsed off. (I now washed the car, snow foam, two bucket method, microfibre drying towel etc) I then applied wax to the car, AND, to the windshield. After the time had passed, removed and buffed the wax from car and windscreen. Now, I was suitably impressed with the shine and transparency than I had been before. Maybe it was a placebo effect, who knows, but I think that's the best the windshield had looked since ownership. Then an application of RainEx, for good measure, over the wax. Apparently the wax should help the RainEx last longer and give you a better hydrophobic windshield. I will update on its durability. Number two: PowerMaxed Tyre Dressing: After pointing people to a video recently RE water and silicone based tyre dressing, thought I'd try a water one, and even though I'd never experienced 'gel sling' was curious. Its very runny (ie water) and I found it went on easy, but wasn't sure on quantity. It dripped a lot (maybe I was using too much) and stayed 'white' on the tyre. It said allow to dry, which I am doing. Personally, I didn't think much of it when wet, but I will let you know how it looks upon removal of the car from garage on Sunday, hopefully for Prescott. Ta, Mark

Wasn't too impressed with the 'shine' on the PowerMax water based tyre dressing (from last post), but, after quite a few miles and weather on past few run outs and the wash today, it's looking remarkably 'new tyre like' but not shiny. Jury still out for me, but feel better about it now. Needed a wash, so took the cloud cover as a good time to do so, and an excuse to take a picture of her behind!

Nothing exciting, but major service today at Northway. All good, a couple of extra bits picked up (coil packs needed replacing and a seal was beginning to go on the back end) and looks like the exhaust flange bolts are pretty shot but they will last for at least another 6 months or so, so will get those done later in the year along with a new clutch as the current one is beginning to feel a bit grindy if you depress the pedal slightly. Touch wood, I've not had any IMS issues since I've had the car and no paperwork that indicates any of the previous owners had it done either. Will get them to look at it when the clutch is out but, without tempting fate, I could well be one of the lucky 90% On a related note, I pinged OPC Reading for a price on a major service as I thought I'd get it done there along with signing up for the Classic Register. Price quoted was double Northway!

Not so much what I did today as on New Years day, happy new year everybody! Took a trip up the Loch Lomond road through Inverary to Carradale via the single track road on the west coast and back down via Cambletown. What a beautiful day, brilliant roads and hardly another car on the roads all morning till mid afternoon, bliss Took a couple of snaps early on just over the top of the 'Rest and Be Thankful'

You will probably find not many technicians are familiar with the 996 at OPCs now. When I mentioned I had rebuilt my 996 engine at Reading they were surprised and couldn't recall when they had last done the same.

Fitted new bonnet/luggage compartment/frunk gas struts after a slight incline and a gentle breeze almost brought the lid down on my neck. Took longer to assemble the tools (narrow flat screwdriver to move the spring steel clips, aerosol white grease, a long stick to hold the bonnet up whilst struts were being removed singly) than to do the job. Feels much better now. I feel the need for two new back tyres next; not immediate need but now's a good time.

On Saturday, I applied a new coat of Fabisil Gold to the hood, to top up the one I put on last year. Mainly because, A, I had the time, and B, I think I mentioned somewhere that I wasn't happy at the beading on the back quarters. This has helped that quite a bit. One thing I didn't do this time, was wipe the hood afterwards, as per the instructions, I left it all to soak in for a longer period. Then on Sunday, glad I did proof the hood Sun was beaming when I left home, but it rained whilst we were inside), as went to the R19 meet and Mille Miglia talk from a participant from 2013 and found it very informative and interesting, so thank you to John for organising that

Had a nice little run up to DW Performance in Wellingborough to have the coil packs changed. Had a slight hesitation a few days before that in the wet. Couldn't find when they were last, if ever, changed. A great service and nice guys there and happily showed me that all were all in a pretty bad condition. A smooth drive home!

After taking to Caff and Mac on Sunday (good venue and great day BTW), it went away wet and dirty, so had to get out this afternoon for wash and dry. Think it's the dirtiest it's been since I had it, lol! Two new tings I tried today: 1, CarPro DHydrate drying towel. Amazing! For dragging rather than dabbing, although I dabbed the small areas where a drag isnt possible. Would work even better on a coupe I reckon 2, Atom Mac on the brakes, post wash, to stop the brake 'red rust' on show ad seems to work well. Tried applying post wheel wash on 2 ad pre wheel wash on two and both seem to be clear. A mark on the disc though where brake calipers were, but nothing obvious or hugely noticable

Sounds good. How was Caffeine and Machine? Anything interesting in the car park and what was the food like? [ ]

Hi James, conscious of making this too OT, so will be brief! Porsche wise, nothing of note whilst I was there (almost first thing) modern GT3RS, 2 x miami blue RSs (I think) far more water than air cooled mind, mainly due to weather I assume. NonPorsche, a modded Volvo 240, Ford Scorpio (for sale £800), 2 x Jag Project 8s i think Food, myself and Martin only had a bacon roll in the tent. Personally, I thought it was fine, didnt sample 'menu' food inside. I really liked the place. Was a bit of a shame it wasn't exclusively Porsche so you knew who was who, but a good day none the less and I will defo go back in the summer, as bar a bit too much M40/A34 for me, enjoyed my drive up Feel free to take a peek at a few photos, which I didnt take may of TBH [link=https://photos.app.goo.gl/gwTy39JGYz8ZEL4c9]https://photos.app.goo.gl/gwTy39JGYz8ZEL4c9[/link]

Cool, thanks... Nice pics too. I like their commandments

Saturday - took her to PEC for my first Porsche experience. Liked the session, but over what felt far too quickly. Pleased with the assessors feedback on my lines, steering and ability, as well as being able to get a better feel for the car, just by being talked to around seat positon and steering position, which helped more than I thought. Loved the kick plate and ice hill and pleased to have my first 360 spin in a controlled conditions rather than on the road. Not that I ever plan on taking her out on an black ice, or potential black ice weather. Also met Nick and his lovely GT3 from the intro/996 pic posts a few months back, as well as meeting a few other members which was great. Sunday - off to Sunday Scramble which had a great mix of cars again, both Porsche and non. Anyone interested, here's a folder link if you're bored [link=https://photos.app.goo.gl/ZsvBmjYU1WFWcEzL6]https://photos.app.goo.gl/ZsvBmjYU1WFWcEzL6[/link] There's also a few pics and a video from PEC, and a 993 C4S that was at Autofarm on my way up to PEC

Had new set of Pirelli P Zero Rosso's fitted today for what I thought was good value and worth posting / sharing on here in case anybody else was looking to do the same. After a bit of searching I came across National Tyres and Autocare online and was able to configure, get a quote and book an appointed time for fitment. My order for 2 front x Pirelli P Zero Rosso N4 88Y (225/40/18) and 2 x rear Pirelli P Zero Rosso N4 93Y (265/35/18) came in at £631.55 inclusive of tax, fitting, balance and disposal. I was even able to take advantage of 3 monthly interest free payments that was offered on the Pirelli's. Fitting was at Cheltenham branch who were on time, polite, professional and very friendly. All in I reckon a great service and price at no more than it cost to re-boot my diesel Mercedes Estate recently! Car now booked in for full geometry set up on Wednesday.

Hi Mark Don't forget to The Pirelli cash back offer (Page 9 in P/Post) log in send you receipt an £100 in your bank.[ ] Andy

Hi Andy, Thanks for pointing out. However that is not as straightforward as it may appear, I had already checked it. You have to have used one of the Pirelli Performance fitting centres and in my experience when shopping around were a fair bit more expensive to start with. The other benefit with using National Tyres was the three month interest free payment option, so I think one probably cancels out the other. Regards Mark

The Cotswold Rally...

[attachment=40873690283_dc5400c81a_m.jpg] A big thank you to the lovely people at Williams Crawford Porsche in Saltash, Cornwall for their hospitality on Saturday morning. We were enjoying a weekend away touring the South Hams of Devon in the 996 and dropped in to say hello and were made very welcome and shown around their fantastic new facility. In particular thanks to Adam and Emma for their time, my wife and I were most impressed. I have been in the club for just a year but have been hugely impressed at how welcoming, helpful and friendly everyone within the club and wider Porsche community have been.

After 3 months of being off the road, I finally was able to drive the car home after the tiptronic gearbox was fixed! Various problems caused a lot of the delay but basically the main input shaft had broken and then it was found that debris meant a full rebuild of the valve body. Done by DW Performance in Wellingborough where Kevin arranged for me to be picked up by a driver (60 miles away) and stayed until 8pm last night for me to collect and gave me a 24 month guarantee on the box. Thanks Kevin. Every cloud has a silver lining, car should be faster now as my wallet is a bit lighter!

Saw your car there (I believe) last week whilst having mine serviced/MOT by Kev and the team. Glad you are back on the road, a great crew at DW.

Took a surprise trip to the Forest of Dean (why I couldn't make the R10 Rally ) and stay at Mrs Mills Yurts. Lovely weather for it and got a chance to sneak some shots in before having to leave the car at the main house. [link=https://flic.kr/p/2govm6t] [/link] [link=https://flic.kr/p/2govm6t]https://flic.kr/p/2govm6t[/link]

Just back from a 2000 mile trip to the South of France and back via Reis, Dijon, Bezier, Limoges, Amboise and Rouen. Fantastic places to visit, great food and wine and a car that didn't mind the 44C!!! heat at times. Loved every minute of it and a comfortable car even after 5 hours of driving.

We just had a weekend in Shropshire with driving in North Wales. Great weekend with great roads and views throughout.

Been some time since I posted here, mainly due to tiptronic gearbox problems! Now all sorted with a 2 year guarantee from DW Performance in Wellingborough and we took the car for a 550 mile test drive up to and around Cheshire, staying in a cottage on the Tatton Park estate. Part of the reason was to visit the Power and Passion motor show at Tatton Park. It was more a classic car show but nevertheless was very large with many clubs and traders. Unfortunately only TIPEC represented our marque and I must presume the local region were off somewhere else to have missed this. Car behaved flawlessly.

Went with R31 to This is Your Garage, to do pre-winter checks and also investigate the OPC claims of exhaust manifold and front struts need replacing due to rust and also do a check of the pinhole coolant pipe hole. All looking good underneath. Yes, manifold will need doing, but surface rust on struts is nothing to be worried about. Glad I went and knew it was there, was a good opportuntiy to discuss underneath and also help others with their conundrums. Certainly renting a ramp here, is easier than jacks an axle stands

It’s almost a year since buying Helga and I thought it time she had a pamper session at the Spa, otherwise known as DW Performance in Wellingborough. So off she went for an IMS bearing, RMS seal, air oil separator, tip gear oil change, main service. On top of this she ended up with a set of rads, air con condensers, air con pipe, water pump and a CV boot, off the top of my head And a few other nik naks like vent covers etc. Kev at DW performance looked after me exceptionally well and saved me a lot of money combining labour across the jobs to a price I could afford. I’ll definitely be using them in the future. I’m a time served mechanic so I completely understand what has been done and I can honestly say that DW go beyond the call of duty. The price and trust had to be good, or I’d have done the work myself, and it was. Went Skeg Vegas for the weekend in her and she’s running like a dream Hopefully the next few years will be kind with running costs now that a lot of the problem items have been crossed off of my list. IMS bearing was in good shape in case anyone is interested. Yet another member with an expensive paperweight but at least I have some peace of mind.

Seems like a comprehensive list, but nothing out of the ordinary and always nice for peace of mind. Out of interest was there any wear on the IMS (he asks hoping for a 'no' to sooth his M96 doubts). Cheers, Dan

No, the bearing was fine. I don’t Regret having it done though

No, I'd be the same, whilst you were doing what you did it makes huge sense. Also nice to hear about another good bearing [ ]

I have used Kev and DW for a couple of years now and although it's a 90 minute drive on a good day, will be taking it there in the future as well. Still on my original IMS so always good to hear these stories...many of the rest of your list has been done on mine so I drive with and enjoy it.

DW Performance have a September special offer on IMS. It’s on their Facebook page and Includes other work while the IMS is being fitted.

Recently I fitted a wireless phone charger in the storage bin on the 996 and thought I'd share this simple project; 1 Dismantle a wireless charger by removing the casing. I had an old Belkin model and extracted the circuit board from withi 2 Take out the rubber mat and draw around it on Plywood or MDF that is similarly thick to the board (I used 9mm ply) 3 Centre up and draw around the charger circuit board and make space for the USB cable 4 Cut it all out using jigsaw or similar 4 Drill the bottom of the storage box to fit the USB cable and run it to charger/head unit USB power source past the handbrake 5 Place it all in the storage bin and put the rubber mat back on top and test - enjoy easy discreet charging [attachment=IMG_2352.jpg]

Very neat Guy. I've cut and pasted it in the Technical Articles section here: [link=https://www.porscheclubgb.com/forum/FindPost/1040551]https://www.porscheclubgb.com/forum/FindPost/1040551[/link]

Leaking water coolant radiator on the o/s replaced today. As the n/s radiator was the same original age, then while the front was off I had that also replaced. Hopefully that is the end of drips on the garage floor! Centre radiator not showing any signs of leaks but I'll get a Zunsport grill to give it a bit of protection from stones. Next job is to refurb the wheels which are becoming a bit of embarrassment.

Your next job is to let me have a go at tackling that paintwork!

Managed to give Ajax a brief early winter spruce up before the dastardly drizzle hit this morning... I'm not precious about the level of muck and road rash on the car as I do use it nearly every day come rain or shine but there was a surprisingly large amount of crud that had accumulated in the last couple of weeks...

Not so much what I did with my 996 today, but what I'm planning today for it to do in the future... Cotswold Rally 2020 tickets are available to purchase. It was a great day this year (the weather gods were smiling too). Well worth getting a ticket if you can - they sell like the proverbial hot cakes!

Sun was shining and car had been washed a few days ago so thought it would be a good idea for lunch out at a local pub! Owner of the Cobra also had the same idea. Zunsport grill now fitted to front and perfect fit. Highly recommended. Still need the wheels refurbished but problems as originally chromed (before being painted) and recommended refurbishers won't touch them. Few possibilities to look at, may even try a DIY job with sandpaper, primer and aerosols!

Have you tried Excel wheels/Lepsons?

Hi thanks. Yes I have tried both of them. I think the problem is that they want to be able to do an excellent job and keep their reputation. To do a perfect job it would be necessary to remove all the chrome and either this has to be done by a specialist in electrolysis (and lepsons said even then it might not be acceptable) or blasted which may not leave a perfect surface. I have found two places, one recommended but not local, who wants to see them first before deciding if they can do them and another more local who will blast and use a thicker primer to try and get a smooth surface again for painting. Problem is the chrome is harder than the alloy and taking it off damages the alloy! I'll probably just get the local chap to do them and accept that where the chrome is not taken right off then it'll need doing again in a few years.

Blimey, didn't realise what a nightmare chrome plating removal is. Might be worth putting them up for sale (probably do quite well over the pond) and buying used alloys?

Was done the other weekend, but, as we can't really drive, I cleaned! I also learnt how to properly insert pics, via Imgr lol Engine Bay was done one afternoon, along with the Frunk being cleaned out, as well as behind the plastics in the area in the Frunk too and behind rear lights. Couldn't get the fronts out again for the life of me Car was then cleaned on the Sunday, but more time spent on the outside, than inside! I also added F1 dust caps (yes, these came from Pirelli directly and are fitted to F1 car tyres. Extra BHP lol) [link=http://www.cleanfortheweekend.co.uk]www.cleanfortheweekend.co.uk[/link] @cleanforthewknd Twitter @cleanfortheweekend Instagram

Wow, looks almost brand new, good effort! How long did that all take you?

Thank you, I was very pleased with it. Without taking credit away from myself, I think there's still alot of the Kenolon ceramic coating left on it, too, which helps (been on nearly 3 years). But, I do make sure I wash it properly, and I never let it get filthy. Was clear that the other areas needed attention though and obviously, the engine etc are going to get dirty I didn't rush it tbh, and also did things inn and around the garden whilst outside too. I'd say, best part of a day and half, maybe less.

Did a deep clean on my leather - mostly seats. They were not too bad, but had quite a few scratches around different surfaces. Bought a cleaner and colour fresh product from Colourlock. Worked really well at removing the marks and refreshed the look of the seats. Will give the leather a good feed tomorrow. All looks much better now.

A nice man from Exel Wheels came to pick my wheels up today. They are back to work next week so finally I can get them re-furbished. Cant wait for them to come back now [ ]

Photo of the results please

Wheels are back! Very happy with the result. " /> " /> " />

Fantastic job. Excel (Lepsons) did my wheels a few years back, faultless

The company who did mine were Exelwheels. I had my previous Cayman wheels done by them too. Great service - pick up and provide donor wheels to keep you mobile. [ ]

Gave my 996 Gt3 Manthey a little hoover earlier and noticed that the plastics around the center console are showing the signs of the race belts being thrown against them . Just reading this thread i wondered if that section is easily replaceable or if indeed its worth doing given there are no seat belts as such just the harnesses. maybe its a winter jobbie

shout out to the hood guys in Birmingham who repaired my roof on my 996 c4 today.Great service, great price great guys.

[LONG CONTENT]

Having a bit of time on my hands I decided to try and "refurbish" my wheels. Being replacement 19" Viking Equipment 20 spoke chrome, overpainted some years ago before my purchase, the paint was literally beginning to peel off in places with the chrome underneath bubbling and even the base copper showing and coming off. Not a pretty sight. Most of the well known refurbishers wouldn't touch them, even respected Excel wheels, who advised me that I would be better off buying a second hand set of normal alloys and having them refurbished! But I do like these wheels and it is only cosmetic. I know there are some places who would do them by blasting and applying a thick primer. That would look okay for a while but eventually the same problems would show through. So I decided to do a DIY on them as they couldn't look much worse. Here is one of the better ones in the process of sanding down and hopefully idc I will be able to post a pic of the final results on the car and give more detail as to what paints I used and how I found them (just in case anyone else fancies a go).

I picked my car up from being serviced yesterday after 3 weeks (the garage were very busy) and not only was I glad to see the car and drive it again, it was good to hear that the car is in good shape too. 128,000 miles so far. When I bought the car it cost under £9k, it was the first car I saw and drove and when I bought the car it had a full history but no receipts - yes i did it all wrong. When asking the good questions about IMS, I was told "yeah I think that was all done..." Anyway 5 years of ownership later and I had the clutch changed and asked the garage to check if the IMS had been replaced, and if not, please get to it. I was pleasantly surprised to find it has an LN bearing fitted, and over the moon about not having to pay for it to be done. So all in all I remain a happy owner of a very frequently used old 911 (yes the one with the dodgy engine!!!) If anyone asks me about buying a 996, I always say go for it, but the cost of looking after it properly is where you really feel the cost of running a car like this. It is paid back multiple times over with the pure pleasure it brings.

Took the c4 down to precision Porsche at Sheffield park for new key coding drive belt and tensioner wheel quick service good chaps down there

Just took the car down to the Alps for a long weekend. 1400 miles of lovely clear French roads. Car was superb and didn't miss a beat on either motorway or alpine roads. No rain so had the roof down the entire time.

Nice what parts did you visit, any issues with the current problems? Any pictures?

Very nice. Would be interested to hear what the situation is over there with accommodation etc

Sounds lovely did you bother with travel insurance as foreign travel still not advised or has that changed? Hard to keep up these days!!!

Good question and is car ok, insurance wise?

Hi all, we are lucky enough to have a place there (near Chatel), so just spent time travelling around locally. Rubbish at taking pictures but here's two I managed to take, including a very empty Eurotunnel train! Car insurers said all was ok but Travel Insurance was a no no.

......needless to say we're now in quarantine until 10th July !!

Wonderful. Thanks for the info. Was due to take mine this week (Languedoc area) but hopeful for later in the year...

Finished "refurbishing" my wheels on a DIY basis. My advise for anyone faced with 20 spoke wheels that are in a poor cosmetic condition is to get them done professionally! This particularly applies if they are, like mine, originally chromed. I found it very time consuming to try and rub down all the spokes and trying to spray them with rattle cans was difficult given the various surfaces that the spokes presented. Also very wasteful of paint as a lot of it went between the spokes! It obviously depends on the condition and type of wheels. If they had been straightforward not too bad alloy turbo styles then yes a good job probably can be done. But with lots of spokes and corrosion then the tyres should have come off and the valves taken out so all parts could have been accessed to do a proper job. My wheels now look a lot better than before (see pic) but they are not perfect. I used just over 4 cans of Hycote etching primer and just over 4 cans of Hycote silver wheel paint. I also used part of a can of Hycote Adhesion promoter where copper was showing through under chrome. One tip is that the etching primer is fairly dark and this has resulted in a darker than expected silver. If I was doing it again I would put a coat of white primer on first before the silver. Although it has been interesting to do, if they need doing again then they will go somewhere to be blasted with the tyres off and a thick layer of filler primer before getting a professional spray job. Most of the main refurbishers wouldn't touch them because of the chrome but I did find some of a more "back street" nature who would have done it although not guaranteeing that they would be as good as new.

Well done for persevering - I think I would have given up. Sanding down something is my most hated job.

Good job on the wheels. Done this twice on other cars and know the pain you went through. Only you know the imperfections, others will not notice.

Finally ordered and fitted replacement frunk struts after it tried to kill me a couple of times recently. Would just randomly drop - usually when my head was there to stop it... 5 minute job and parts came next day from Design911.

Today i spent £157 on light bulbs from halfords followed by £346.82 for a new key/key fob/reprogramming as apparently i can't have my old one reprogrammed (Porsche hull). I'm now going to fit stated lights.

I'll replace the "y" with "te" but I will do "today" next time Bought 996 27/05 Since then: - Top Gear sound exhaust silencers 6 spark plugs and heat shields Water pump, thermostat and belt Coolant tank and 04 cap Oil and filter change £1923.60 Next: Front discs, pads and MOT Near future: 4 new coffin arms and at least one bump stop Air conditioning pipe and condensors

I take it they were HID replacements?

A good reminder...must do mine, thanks

Always worth trying the local locksmith, most of them do car keys and reprogramming these day just need your V5 Not sure if what you paid was good value or not. But a lot of dosh.. Love is blind.

yes Osram nightbreaker and indicators. front drivers had stopped working but all sorted now. just need alignment as are pointing very low. Good point, will check if I ever need another one. I was told £137 to re-program current key fob but there was an issue so new ordered.

I’d be interested to hear how you get on with the new key. I’ve recently bought a 2003 C4S and completely smitten with it, but the spare key is a replacement and despite opening the central locking and working in the ignition, it stubbornly refuses to accept any seat position programming and insists on sending the seat all the way back and down whenever used. Google suggests it’s a fairly common problem and there doesn’t seem to be a fix. Hope yours doesn’t suffer the same fate.

I don't have memory seats in mines, it don't have many optional extras tbh

[Image-only or quote-only post; no author-written text.]

Thanks. Unfortunately none of that worked for me as I did see that thread when I was searching for an answer. it’s not the end of the world though, we can just use the one key as the two memory buttons still work. Appreciate your response though

Evening all, So I am a finally a 996 owner - after a 3 year search and much deliberation - found a FSH 90k miles early (Dec97) C2 tip in Slate Grey and took the plunge However my enthusiasm, 500miles and delight of the past week has, today, suddenly taken a severe shit - I guess a mere 3000 miles in the past 4 years wasn't such a good thing after all as the NSF rad burst this afternoon and then the tensioner + idler pulley busted off whilst limping off... Initial inspections are a simple split road core and failed/snapped idler mounting bolt and an un-tensioning tensioner...

Welcome to the club yeh there is a downside to cars that. Do only a 1000 miles between mots I am trying to drive mine at least once a week

Zunsoprt grills fitted today - took advantage of the PCGB discount code for 20% off! Seem to be quite good quality. Went for the black ones and please they look nice and discreet. Hope they keep my new condensers and rads damage free.

Did you get the rads sorted? If not and you need a cheap interim fix, I have some used rads you are welcome to. I recently replaced my rads which were flagged as corroded and leaking at my PPI, but didn't seem to be leaking and are only very slightly corroded, so would be fine as an interim fix.

Thanks for the offer, but yes i have already replaced both rads this weekend [ ] Also replaced the incorrectly fitted belt pulleys - I wont mention names but an apparently well respected Welsh independent fitted the upper idler pulley (M10 bolt hole) in the lower position so no wonder the lower M8 bolt snapped...! The same indie also performed a full tiptronic service at the same time last year about 500miles ago and now the transmission keeps slipping at upper rpm and when cold is constantly flashing the D light... So next job is check the trans fluid level and prepare to change it again no doubt

Not today but from 12 August to 1 Sep inclusive with 2/3 nights in each location: London - Folkestone tunnel Calais - Epernay Epernay - Chablis Chablis - Puligny-Montrachet Puligny-Montrachet - Condrieu Condrieu - Savennes (Drome) Savennes - Monbazillac Monbazillac - Saumur Saumur - Le Mans Le Mans - Crepon Crepon - London via Caen and Portsmouth 1800 miles mainly on non motorway roads. Absolutely brilliant! If anyone wants the places we stayed at PM me and I'll forward.

In preparation for some suspension work I need to do I was getting the car ready today. Decided to remove the rear wheel arch liners as there was quite a layer of dried mud in the areas I could see. Once the liners were off I was very surprised to find a thick layer of dried mud covering the whole area! Wire brushed it all off and was relived to find no rust. Recommend everyone to take a look next time you have your rear wheels off - if nothing else its quite a lot of the countryside you are carrying around. Also removed one of the heat shields covering the coils packs. It was rotten through and only being held in by one bolt... Otherwise, all looking good for when my new bits arrive.

Hope you had a good look at the drain exit points (vital on a cab) while you were in there as these also get full of crud and the plastic non flap does not help.

Yes I did thanks Andy. They were both full of debris. They must have been working though as there was not wetting inside the car. But I guess it would only be a matter of time. Agree the flaps that I assume are there to prevent ingress don't seem to do much. Glad I went there!

Can you advise exactly where to find these drains? Also removed loads of crud from the tops of the inside rear wheel arches this weekend!

Here you go, this is the best post around on the subject together with photos, water in passenger foot well must be avoided at all cost. [link=https://www.renntech.org/topic/7791-cautionary-warning-heads-up-for-cab-owners/]https://www.renntech.org/topic/7791-cautionary-warning-heads-up-for-cab-owners/[/link] easy fix good luck. Andy

Drove it and marvelled at the difference RSS engine mounts have made. Not surprising given the state of the old ones, [link=https://flic.kr/p/2jJ7FXa]video here[/link] Also was a passenger while a friend had a drive, I enjoyed seeing him enjoy himself!

Finally got my Aircon fixed (i know - summer’s over - but the dehumidifier effect is also useful plus it makes the inside of the car smell nicer!). Needed two new condernser rads and a re-gas, pipe was ok. I’d forgotten how loud the front fans are when the A/C is on and they go to high speed!

Got my callipers painted. Can't wait to fit them.

WOW - like that colour! Who did you use? Or if you DIY'd, what did you use?

The colour is RAL 5015 I think and I used a local guy called the alloy clinic in Farnham, Surrey.

Love that video, its like an old sound effect for walking on ice or gravel.. They were shot, when I did mine I had jacked the back up and put them under load and the both leaked green fowl smelling alien blood all over the floor of the garage. Knew then it was time for a change. I did consider semi solids but stuck with OEM as they were in stock just down the road.

Took advantage of a sunny Sunday and took the wife for a spin along my favourite local twisty road, the A505 between Baldock and Buntingford. This was also the first trip out since fitting a Sprint Booster, so interested to see what difference it made. Probably not a valid trip during lockdown, but the roads are so busy this time around, it was evident that others are out enjoying themselves so why not us too. The sun was very low in the sky, which kept my speed in check. Despite everyone else on the road, a most enjoyable trip out and made me realise that I need to get out more. The Sprint Booster worked well, although too sensitive on the race settings for normal roads.

It seems we were all out enjoying the bright sunny day. I travelled on the A505 to Fowlmere RSPB reserve for a walk and have never seen the car park overflowing before. Many Boxsters and 911's out enjoying the sun.

I recently had the coffin arms replaced and fitted a 997 short shifter kit. The car feels a lot tighter in corners and over bumps but the SSK is a revelation. Gear change is like a rifle bolt now whereas before it was a bit slack. Very pleased with the upgrade.

How difficult was it to fit the Short Shifter Kit and how much are they? Many thanks Chris

Bought a cover for it to keep the dust and crud off it while it’s stored in the garage. can you guess the model (Without looking at my profile pic )

Stacking them that way you can get two in.

Gave her an annual oil and filter change. Had a good look at the filter and couldn't see any sign of any debris, so please with that. Oil was also still quite clean. I had one radiator fan that wasn't running low speed when the AC was on and car stationary. Diagnosed the resistor was faulty. Quick search on another forum and I discovered you can use a resistor from RS components at a fraction of the cost. So I changed both out. Fans are now working correctly. MOT also passed the other day with no advisories.

Hi Graham Have you got their part No or code for that resistor from RS ? Regards Andy

Hi Andy There was an atricle on the 996 Carerra Fb group by Russell B he quoted this part [link=https://uk.rs-online.com/web/p/panel-mount-fixed-resistors/0188087/?fbclid=IwAR2bJEP-SuKxLo_LBTEiYWcC_Jrs5waSXF6jQ3sHom6NA_yEQMhxonUQcXA]https://uk.rs-online.com/web/p/panel-mount-fixed-resistors/0188087/?fbclid=IwAR2bJEP-SuKxLo_LBTEiYWcC_Jrs5waSXF6jQ3sHom6NA_yEQMhxonUQcXA[/link] He said " Heater resistor is an aftermarket unit from RS Components. Snipped the oem resistor off (looked absolutely fine - no cracks or breaks), stripped back the three wires, joined green/white wire with the solid white wire and connected to one end of the resistor and then the solid green wire to the other side of the resistor. Started engine, put interior fan on, pressed the Air conditioning button and checked both radiator cooling fans came on... All good. " Hope this helps Ian

HI Ian Thanks, I changed mine for OEM ones about 10 years ago. Just looked at the price I paid which was £49 +vat - discount, the current price is £160 for the 3.4 & £134 that's each!!! for C4s rip off or what. My only concern would be to advise not to mount them directly onto the plastic body panels as they get so hot. I‘ve seen one guy has fixed his to the old resistor thus using the original mounting clips giving good air flow around it which is far better. Andy

Agreed they will get hot. In insurance terms would it be classed as a modification?

Pass

Hello Andy - I bought the same one that Ian posted the link for. I mounted to the radiator frame in a similar place as the original. I secured in place with a jubilee clip. There is plenty of air flow from the fan to keep them cool - but to be safe I ensured it wasn't in contact with any plastic parts.

I have a pair of these ready to fit to my 996 but no engine in it at the moment. having the water pipe work and air con pipes to the engine replaced. whiles its in also having both rads and air con rads changed along with the 3rd rad fitted, water pump, thermostat, and AOS. its been a while

[/img] Took her for a spin and a poor photoshoot, then gave her a bath! <blockquote class="imgur-embed-pub" lang="en" data-id="a/WEWP5h2"><a href="//imgur.com/WEWP5h2"></a></blockquote><script async src="//s.imgur.com/min/embed.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

OMG I give up with adding photos via imgr or anything else lol

Yep agree, posting pictures is a royal pain...(nice piccies though...just looked at the links in the email)

Good photos Mark

I took mine to the office today to collect some bits that I need to continue WFH. Nice to get out and give it a run. On starting it turned over very slowly both on first start and when leaving the office, so suspect the winter has not been kind to the battery, probably not helped by the Y cable (shows 14v for a few minutes after cold start then sits just over 13v) limiting charging, so I will change that first.

The Y cable keeps coming up as a problem for slow cranking, can it not be replaced with just - 2 individual / normal - cables, do they have to be joined?

I've ordered the Y cable (£73 from OPC), but will happily measure hole sizes and individual lengths when it arrives so others can get something made up.

Be interesting to see how the turn over is improved once fitted (Video before and after) on yours, if you look at some of the pictures of old Y cables on the webby, they look very hot and worn. I wonder if it as simple as lack of lube / vasoline on the connectors causing resistance / heat. Ian

What did I do with my 996 today? Same as I have been doing for some time now - viewed it sitting in garage plugged into ctek charger! Looking forward to when it can be used again properly. In the meantime I can always remind myself of better times [ ]

What a brilliant bit of kit the ctek charger is - made even easier to use by the comfort charge adapter to plug into the cigar lighter socket - on our Audi TTS which is the 996’s garage mate, there’s no power to the lighter socket unless the ignition is on, so that one has to have the normal battery clips - into the boot in the case of the TT!

The early 996 did not have the cigerette lighter option for charging either. The change happened when the cables went for the boot and frunk I believe.

My 1998 needs the charger directly connected to the battery. No problem as leads attached permanently and just need to join the plug up. Also I leave the bonnet unlocked when garaged even when not on charger so should the battery ever go flat I have easy access (trunk bulb removed to avoid drain). Battery has never gone flat but as at least 8 years old am not taking any chances!

Mine sits on the driveway but same here with ctek plugged in and covered in rain droplets. I managed to get it out for a little run last weekend but not too far.

Last weekend discovered that one of the scuttle drain holes was blocked, and although I always garage the car and it rarely gets rained on, the previous owner left it outside all weathers (with the h/top on I might add) so I found that the tray the battery sits on was quite corroded . Fortunately it looked worse than it was and after unblocking the drain holes I removed the tray, had it blasted at work and then sprayed it with black Hammerite and re-assembled everything. One to look out for though, in an area that probably is easily overlooked - was by me anyway! Cheers Chris

Went to replace a bulb in the clamshell brake light, gently removed the end cover, turned the release screw and 'ping' the catch disappeared off into the clamshell subframe. New catch ordered so at least I can repair it without replacing the whole light unit.

Hugh Did you change the Y cable - if so has it made a difference? Ian

Sort of sunny today. So hardtop off the roof down just had new do88 performance intercoolers and silicone pipes installed along with new coil packs all-round engine warmed up and then tested to 70 mph to make sure all good, initial thoughts turbo lag reduced much faster pickup sonic boom blurry vision brake test stupid grin I'm happy roll on the summer.

Went to Hot Hatches at Bicester on Saturday and Chronos and Cars at GTO engineering on Sunday. Car does not miss a beat. Coming up on 4 years of ownership and I think I love the car more each time. I am tempted by a coupe, but I don't wanna sell this, I love the summer months. Obligatory Bicester H shot [link=https://photos.app.goo.gl/X7prLzM2girL5gNK8]https://photos.app.goo.gl/X7prLzM2girL5gNK8[/link] - Car at Bic and GTO pics

Finally managed to address the issue of the cracked mounting on the rear light units and the previous owners bodge job to secure them, using some metal 'Light Saver' brackets from a chap called Clint Hightower in the US. Not cheap, but significantly less than the cost of new lights and they now look a million times better. The right unit was particularly bad. Hopefully the before and after pics display [attachment=IMG_8167.jpg][attachment=IMG_8174.jpg]

Used the Autoglym Cabriolet Fabric Hood Maintenance Kit - roof cleaner and waterproofer - whilst the weather is good for that sort of thing, I have used it in the past and had good results but I recently got a discount voucher via email from Halfords and it took a fair bit off the pric, after that, I then spent some time refurbishing my wiper arms that seem to have taken a bashing over the years. They look like new now. Simple job for a simple mind.

today - roof cleaned 2 coats of Fabsil Gold waterproofer roof all mechs cleaned and lubed battery brain fitted (sends txt to my phone if battery low and checks for charging etc) £20 ! optimate waterproof plug charging lead fitted to battery so easy to plug into my battery conditioner / charger on drive engine bay detail bottle cap mod on airbox resonator air box cleaned out and throttle body all wheels off and cleaned inside and out and hubs painted / tyres pressures checked and adjusted wheel spacers fitted 7mm /15mm rear speakers removed and all side panels to check the often forgotten about rear drain holes behind rear speakers , both where blocked with bits of rubber ??? but all work now rear seats bolts adjusted properly through vacuum while all out new headlight bulbs (Osram nightbreaker + 150 and LED sidelight bulbs rear spoiler all re-lubed new PIAA silicone blade wipers (with correct curved on on passenger side) double exhaust tips cleaned (had tar spots) and various bits and bobs including glass cleaning and sealant H2O , full wax inc wheels had a full official Porsche centre check over clean bill of health just front bump stops starting to perish , but A ok no oil underneath etc so i'm very happy !!

Swapped out the LEDs for OEM Units.. Going.. Going.. Gorn..

I have what appear to be very similar LED front lights. Was it just for cosmetic purposes to bring back to OEM or was there some other problem with them? Always may be helpful to know these things!

Hey Steve, no problems with the LEDs, just wanted to revert to OEM.. Previous Owner had them fitted..

Thanks. I also have LED rear lights and while some may think the cars should be kept original I rather like the more modern look (all on car when purchased but no black edge on fronts). I do have a set of fronts in the garage in case I need to change back.

Asked what I'd done to upset the remote locking module (if such a thing exists). Suddenly, neither key now locks/unlocks the car, opens the frunk or puts the cab roof forward or back. Both keys, I've tried fitting new replacement batteries even though there'd be no logical reason for the battery on the key in use and the spare key to fail suddenly at the same time. No change. Checked the fuse box: those fuses which have an association with remote locking are also used for other functions all of which are operating normally. I don't think it's the keys. The flashing red LED on the dash top sensor: I notice that doesn't respond to the remote key buttons but, having used the quaint old "key in driver's door" method to lock up, it does flash when the car is locked in this way. Maybe the car wants a trip to Charlie Wildridge?

I've experienced two different scenarios when the key fob didn't work. Once was when I had a new battery fitted. The fob didn't work, but neither did the central locking and/or electric windows. It turned out they were all on the same fuse which had blown. The other is something that happens quite often, especially over the last year with fewer trips. I wasn't aware of this 'feature' initially, but the key fob is effectively disabled if not used for something like 5 days. You need to manually open the door and start the car to resync it again. I'm not sure either is the answer to your current dilemma though.

You're right. I use the car daily and earlier in the day had used it including unlock, roof down, frunk release. For now I can live with it but ultimately I'll get it seen to. Unless of course there's a secret reset by the car.

There were some cases where recently installed blue tooth transmitters blocked the signal. You have not had a upgrade of any kind recently to the music / phone that you use? Or fitted a link to the stereo of any kind?

Well I had the radio on at one point[:-]. Nope, nothing like that. Gummiflage on the roof and window rubbers, white grease on the ends of the roof tensioning cables but that's all.

Today I was mostly buying a C4S, Nice….

Nice indeed.. Photo..?

Is it your first 996?

First 911 yes, just sold my 981S

Will be looking for loads of advise I’m sure, need to replace exhaust first as badly repaired split seams on std non valve system ……

This is a good resource and group and POC is very helpful. I would also recommend the 996 Carerra Fb page [link=https://www.facebook.com/groups/996owners]https://www.facebook.com/groups/996owners[/link] it is a closed group and sticks to 996 posts etc with a lot of world wide knowledge Welcome to the 911 _996 world and the car looks great in a nice colour. Well done

Many congratulations on your choice of the C4s Rob great cars enjoy. Andy

Yes congratulations. Great cars (I may be biased) the FB page mentioned is good as is the 996C4s page as well

Nice indeed, welcome! Just got my wheels back from ExelWheels - they look great and have come up really well. Very pleased with the results and Chris is a very knowledgeable chap!

I also just picked up my very first 911 (C4S). I’ve had it for about 3 weeks now and love it! Just like yours, it had split and corroded back boxes. Friends Green Porsche, fitted Miltek back boxes for me and they sound INCREDIBLE! Would recommend the Miltek system if you like that throaty bark when you put your foot down. No droning noise at regular road speed either.

Hi Guys, I'm very excited to be collecting my 1998 C2 Aero in Guards Red this Saturday morning from FGP. Speak soon! Daz

Hi Daz Many congratulations on your choice, best colour & great feedback from the C2. Great car enjoy. Andy

Cheers Andy. Thanks for the warm welcome. Previously I had a 981 Black Edition, then a 987.2 C4S, followed by a Cayman R, brief encounter with a M235i and now (all being well) the 996. Have to say that I'm more excited about the 996 than any of the others. I see from your profile pic you have something very beautiful and similar to mine Daz

Yes nearly identical, but mine has G-Grey interior, looking at the FGP website it looks like you have a great car there. Take it easy & enjoy the ride. Andy

Likewise and thank-you Andy. Look forward to meeting with you soon. Daz

I Had a run to the south coast, I was looking for some autumnal pictures but the weather was so good it looks like high summer. I saw some nice cars out on a Monday, smart German, Old English. The car is running great.

Awesome pic and beautiful weather for it! Very jealous. Not today, but this past weekend gave AJaX a bit of a spruce up as whilst "dirt don't slow you down" it's quite therapeutic to spend some time keeping things A-OK.

Greetings all... Bought first Porsche mid Nov (just before my 50th - some say "mid life crisis", I say "s0d off") - just joined PCGB [ ] 2003 Targa in stunning deep blue* Had a long weekend in Scottish Borders at the weekend - got caught in the snow and had to travel from Edinburgh -> Galasheils along the A7. A bit apprehensive at first having no traction control...... car never missed a beat and only spun rear once when I had to stop behind traffic on an incline - much confidence gained in the car [ ]

Great looking car, I also have a 911,996 Lapis Blue Targa 2002, owned for 4 years now. Great in the summer but even better in the winter with the roof open on a bright sunny day with the heater on full blast......enjoy.

Needed a couple of front tyres so decided to change all four as the rears were getting low and had the geometry set up at Porschacare (Rennworks) whilst they were at it…what a difference! Mostly due to the geo being so far out in the first place . Went from Conti’s to PS2’s. Thanks to Matt and the team at Porschacare Stevenage.

Bought a 1999 C4, already swapped out the exhaust to a Dansk and had the wheels refurbe. it joins my very early Boxster.

Oil and filter change, coolant flush and change, New radiator 1 resistor New abs sensor Bled brakes

Happy New Year 996 ers. First drive of the year in fantastic weather. I Went cross-country from Warrington to Southport using the back lanes around Bikerstaffe, Ormskirk and Clieves Hill. Mostly Flat farmland scenery, narrow tracks edged by drainage ditches either side that link the bigger A roads. Hardly any traffic. Perfect.

Went to Porsche @the Podium, Newbury.

Anyone on the Cotswold run this weekend?

Yup, should be a good day out!

Yes. But not in the 996 She's in a new home, so I'll be in a 997 TT Plate has changed too, to TT07RBO, so please say hi if you see me, so many people I've probably spoken to on here but still not met Going to stay in the 996 section though to help out if I ever can

Spotted... I made it into the video that R31 sent out as well

Yes so did we, it was a good day Ian

Finally took the plunge and started replacing one of the radiator cooling fans. Not as easy as shown on a Youtube video! Got the new fan in but having great difficulty putting back the plastic ducting behind the fan. It pulled out easy enough but getting it back into its proper place before fitting the main metal frame is proving a nightmare. Problem seems to be the flexible skirt around the duct which needs to go around the fan. Keeps on bending back at the far edge where there is only a little access and this stops it going to place properly. Tried holding it to the fan assembly and putting it in as one unit but just cannot get it to fit. Anyone had this difficulty and can give tips on best way to do it? As I am really struggling!

All back on the road now but don't let the Youtube man kid you replacing the radiator fan is a two hour job. This took me considerably longer just using a jack and working on my drive. Taking bits off was much easier than putting them back on again, some were quite awkward and I definitely recommend taking photos of each of the "before" stages as a reminder where screws go and how bits fit together.

Front discs, pads and hardware replaced today. What an awful job, if it could be seized, it was. Ended up replacing everything bar the calipers. At least the brakes are back with no juddering from higher speeds now. And 122000 miles clicked over on the drive home.

I sent my turbo off for a colour change…… super excited to get her back in a week or so time looking completely different.

I put 997 seats into my 996, massive difference. It lifts the cabin, gives you more leg room as you can sit much lower and I now don’t get a bad back after a few hours of driving. They are a straight bolt in swap with a bit of hocus pocus on he electrics (I got Bahnsport to do the electrics)

Gave the Turbo a little update with a full Osram LED install. 14 bulbs in total but pretty easy to change them all and it's made it feel so much newer inside. Changed the xenon bulbs to the D2S xenonarc one.

Hi there. I just read your post. I have owned a 2001 targa for 6 months. When you say geometry done? Do you mean having the wheel alignment done or something more? I need new tyres on my car (fronts and rears) so just wondered what else I should be sorting at the same time.

I had the 4 wheel geometry/alignment done on mine at the same time as new tyres. They say to have both done at same time!

I've had a complete new set of discs, pads, sensors and a bore score inspection (all good). Also a new oil pressure sensor and a door switch which hopefully stop my windows opening by themselves

Started the New Year with a Peaks drive with 3 others on Monday 2nd Jan. Great fun apart from how dirty the car got!

After 15months searching, I collected and fitted some 997 sport seats in Stone Grey, which works well with the Graphite Grey leather, and Granite Grey trim in my car. I've also enabled the OBC with durametric, I don't have the stalk but this gives me temperature on the dash which is useful. While doing that I noticed there was an error code for the post cat O2 sensor, it had done a couple of very short runs moving in/out of the garage before hand, so I need to recheck that after it's had a decent run, which will be Monday.

Love the car looks great, some nice upgrades, I’ve got 997 seats in my car too, make a difference. I’ve been looking at the wooden gearknob for mine, there are a few suppliers, where did you get yours from? thanks

Thanks - it's getting very close to being how I want it now. It's a BuiltByBasil ball and adaptor. It's a nicely designed piece of kit, but if you go for one be careful with the 3D printed insert, I snapped one of the fins off it when removing to change the shifter. To his credit Simon replaced FOC, great service.

I’ve been looking at those can you remember which combo you chose? did you use your existing shifter gator and just cut it down? how long did it take for delivery sorry for all the questions

I was originally using an Alex short shift kit, with the updated bush for the left-right level. Even after my gearbox rebuild it was still quite notchy so I then changed for a 997 GT3 shifter which is slightly shorter than standard (but longer than the Alex kit). Ideally I would like something between the 2. Mine is beech and walnut with a satin finish. I bought another knob/gaiter/frame combo from eBay to cut down as at some point I will refinish the grubby leather on the top of my original. Mine look about 5 weeks to arrived, apparently because the email with my spec went to junk, once I’d given him a nudge via a PayPal dispute I had it in about a week. [link=https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51604964775_0cc7256e59_c.jpg]

Thanks for the details, it’s exacly how I specked mine but without pulling the trigger, although you have concerned me re the engraving on top being a little delicate especially as I wear a wedding ring, did you infill your numbers with à colour?

Added a genuine filler cap, really nice little upgrade.

I've used mine for about 2000miles, and haven't noticed any marks from my 18k gold wedding ring. I don't think filling the engraving/shift pattern was an option when I purchased mine.

Decided that rather than get my 19" wheels refurbished I'd treat the car to a new set of 18s and all new Michelins! Very pleased with the result. Probably be putting up the 19s for sale shortly.[attachment=20230521_113541.jpg]

Nice looking car, Steve.

Driven it and loved it. Needs a wash now though: [img]https://thumbsnap.com/s/5oQ8cKzS.jpg[/img]|[link]https://thumbsnap.com/5oQ8cKzS[/link]

By the look of that fly paste you were travelling at least 3 MPH too slow.

I'll endeavor to try harder next time

To make garage space decided to sell my 19" alloys following change to split rim fuch style. Perfect fit for 996 C2 (see pic) and For Sale thread for details. [attachment=20210509_150711.jpg]

test post body

I finally fixed the fuel cap locking pin on my 98 C2. I originally thought the pin didn’t work and I needed a new mechanism, but on further investigation I found it was functioning, but ‘pushing’ backwards instead of forwards. I thought this meant the mechanism needed re-securing within the wing, but after a bit of googling I found a video of a chap who suggested it was simply a missing grommet from where the pin emerges. And at only about a £1 it had to be worth a try. And it worked ! What’s more, it only took seconds to fit. If anyone needs the same, it’s part number 99762450501 And here’s the YouTube link if you need more details… A