New Member 996 questions:

Hello all, just picked up a '99 996 coupe and need to know where the engine serial# is located? Also, is there somewhere on this site, (or elsewhere on the web), that decodes engine #s as to model year, etc..? I'm sure that I'll have a ton of other questions, thanks for maintaining the best 996 board from all I've heard!

i've seen 'em say a million times, introduce yourself before you pry for knowledge...just a little fyi

- 356�s stamped on an alloy plate on the front panel under the bonnet. - Early 911�s alloy plate on the front panel, and stamped behind petrol tank left side. - Later 911�s 993�s, 996�s on the dash lower part of the windshield, and stamped behind the spare wheel. - 924 on the windshield pillar and on the strut top mount, on 944�s and 968�s there should be a sticker in the boot and stamped on the engine bay fire wall. - 928 Is again seen on the windshield pillar. - Also on your car's registration, guarantee/maintenance book or on your insurance policy. 1st Character: The 1st character of your Porsche's vehicle identification number identifies the country where it was manufactured, in this case �W� for Germany. 2nd Character: The 2nd character in your Porsche's VIN specifies the manufacturer, �P� standing for Porsche. 3rd Character: The 3rd character in your Porsche's vehicle identification number indicates the vehicle type, or manufacturing division. 4th - 8th Character: The 4th through 8th characters in your Porsche's VIN reveals its type, model, series, etc. you will see �ZZZ96� on a 964, and �ZZZ99� on a 993 and 996 etc etc. 9th Character: The 9th character in your Porsche's vehicle identification number is a VIN accuracy check digit, verifying the previous numbers within the VIN. This check digit is a single number or letter "Z" used to verify the accuracy of the vehicle identification number. 10th Character: The 10th character in your Porsche's VIN tells you the model year. see the chart in the "Here's How to Find Your Car's VIN" section below for specific locations by car make.) 11th Character: The 11th character in your Porsche's vehicle identification number reveals the assembly plant for the vehicle, �S� is for Stuttgart. 12th - 17th Character: The 12th through the 17th character in your Porsche's VIN indicate the sequence of the vehicle for production as it rolled off the assembly line. The last four characters are always numeric.

Once again, I'm looking for my engine serial #, not the VIN of the car. Pettit, if there is a better way to introduce oneself than saying hello, "new member here" and using my first/last name and the thumbs-up icon+ complimenting your board, I'm all ears. Thanks for your help, though.

Yeah there is an easier way, you are posting to a car board, show us your car!!!!!

What is with the 3rd degree when a new member or user asks a question lately. Is there some obscure introduction code we need to follow in order to not offend 3 or 4 members? Post a resume perhaps? This is a bulletin board, not the boy scouts. If you don't want to answer his question, move on. Perhaps I just need a second cup of coffee, but the snide "intro" comments really annoy.

https://rennlist.com/forums/showthre...=serial+number

In one way I have to agree with you in that it is a little harsh sometimes how newbies are treated if they do not provide more info prior to there 'first' thread, which could drive them away (note: I am still a newbie although I am very active within the forum and posted pics and info on my first thread to avoid any responses such as this and also introduce myself as being part of the forum). But on the other hand I look at a thread like this as if the person just walked up to us with all our Porsches parked and started asking questions about Porsches but had no car with them. If they had the car would could point things out to them so much easier as we can relate more to them knowing what they really had. So knowing more about what the person has makes it a lot easier to assist them. Is it 'required' to post pics or introduce yourself, I believe the answer is NO it is not required, but it is nice and appreciated. So we are not here to drive anyone away, we are here to assist but it is a community just as much as it is a bulletin board. Plus I personally like to see everyones P cars and what they have done with them.

I can see that the only way to post pictures is via hyperlink, so that will have to wait. Here is a link to another forum with the story and pictures of the car: EDIT: Ok, I cannot post a link because I do not have enough posts. If anyone wants to see pics, go to Pelican OT or track forum and look for my thread on "new Porsche (to me)"... I am a regular poster on Pelican Parts BBS w/ close to 10k posts, have been an enthusiast/owner for 32 years, worked in the dealer organization in the '80s, member of POC and well-known in the world of track people, club guys, repair shops, etc.. My cousin is the biggest RUF customer in the world and my Dad's best friend was the general counsel for Porsche for many years. Really. Is that good enough? Seriously, this should not be necessary. Either help a new guy or don't. I personally believe that if you help someone and make them feel like crap about it, it's worse than not helping at all. It should not be necessary to "qualify" to ask a basic question. If someone walked up to me in a parking lot and asked where to find something on their car, I would not need to see it first to make sure it's real. I have heard that this is the most active 996 tech BBS, (with no one in 2nd place, unfortunately), but also with some members who give us all a reputation as *****. If someone who does not fit in this shoe could tell me where my engine# is, I'd really appreciate it. TIA as always!

My first post had a pic, just use the uploader, dont link the image; i dont know why you are having difficulties with posting. Also, as to the noobness, I joined 2 days ago, and as in every forum you will find the people that really want to help the community, and the a$$holes, just disregard them, their life probably is miserable. If you dont have an answer for today night I will find it out for you with my friend/mechanic.

I have to agree with both sides of the coin. HOWEVER I believe the way the newbs are asked to post pics is incorrect. (not to offend anyone) I have no issue helping a newbie out with their questions but in the same post I politely ask for some pics. It is the way you are requesting the information that has been harsh lately. This in turn can be translated to others as us being the �snobbish Porsche owning� crowd. We are all in this virtual relm to assist and communicate with each other, why start off in the wrong foot? BTW..Dennis welcome to Rennlist..now where the &$%&( are your pics...LOL just busting dude

Well, since no one has actually answered the question, I'll give it a shot. And before anyone slaps me around for not be totally accurate, this is from memory, not reference: The engine serial number is stamped on the lower section of the engine case, near the sump, and I think on the driver side. It will look like this: M96/01/66x xxxxxx with M96 = engine family 01 = 3.4L in this case, 1st 6 = eng type (6cyl) 2nd 6 = eng version x = 99 model year xxxxx = 5 digit serial number.

Your manual or original paperwork may have the original engine serial number on it

i just wanted to give you a warning because I've seen people give other people a hard time. i'm new too so i apologize if you took it the wrong way

With less than 60 posts, I am hardly a seasoned member, and cannot therefore speak on behalf of the list. However, my experience has been very positive, most members/users being generous with advice and opinion. I am certain you will find this list both helpful and entertaining. Welcome. Stefan

You guys make issues out of absolutely nothing. Stop being so sensitive. Messin' around and givin' a little **** to a new member about saying hi and introducing himself is harldy a big deal. Matter of fact, they probably appreciatte that we are actually interested in them and their car. If you're worried that we're gonna "chase soemone off" or hurt someones feelings, or make them think us Porsche guys "actually are" ********, you think way too much. LOSE the thin skin!!

Denis, believe me when I say I was not trying to give you a hard time, it is a fact that there are some on this forum that will give you a hard time about not posting pics and so Pettit and myself, both of us being new also, were looking out for you bud, so sorry next time I will keep my nose out of things. But still would like to see photos of your new Porsche. In regards to your question I do not have an answer but I believe Kevin has answered it now Kevin, helps me too. Fair enough

thanks steven

Sorry guys, I must have gotten up on the wrong side of the bed today. I came here w/ a chip on my shoulder because I've heard that some people have their girdles on too tight, then I've gone and been a jerk myself... I might delete my nasty post above, but probably not since I've self-imposed a rule that I must live w/ my scribblings on BBSs even when they reveal my shortcomings. I appreciate the VIN decoder and the other info, but thank you to Kevin for the engine # location. I had heard that it was in that region, but could not see it last night in a perfunctory search. I do not have books/records, original paperwork or anything of the sort w/ this car. I do have the original engine#, but I am trying to determine if it has been changed along the way. This car was a bank repo and is a little rough w/ 192k miles on it, but it was w/o a doubt the cheapest (running and not smashed) 996 ever to burn gasoline. It's a testament to the stoutness of these cars, it has not had an easy life and it runs like an open sore. An absolute cockroach. It will be gutted and used to melt rubber on tracks around the west coast, as well as transport me around town w/ A/C on. Please check the Pelican thread, it has more info and pics. Thanks again!

No, arrogant. To me it isn't about running someone off or hurting someone's feelings. And I'm not thin skinnned I assure you. The whole introduction kabuki is just tiresome and generally a waste of time. Yea, I like the car **** as well as the next guy, but I don't believe we need to bugger every guy that asks a question to run outside and shoot his car every time they do. By the way, did Denis' vitals satsify you?

Dude, give me a break. You've been here for like a month. Certain things are the way they are because that's the way they are. Not sure how you can join on this forum literally days ago, make a few posts and presume to tell us how this forum "SHOULD BE" run. It is COMMON COURTESY. If the majority of people on this forum wish to ask that of new members, too damn bad if you don't like it!

Thanks. Super advice. I guess it just didn't take me more than a month to spot stupid. I didn't suggest how "us" should run your bb. But, yea, you sound well versed in "courtesys." Hey, if your so into sharing pictures with each other and posting intimate details perhaps you should get a myspace page. My little sister says its great. Oh, wait...

Yep, just get over the initial rituals and you'll find plenty of help here. I'd answer your question if I knew where the S/N was located.

You're very rude. As I said, it's a tradition for people to post pics and make an introduction when they join. That's the way its been since I got here. That's the way it's gonna stay! You can make all the jokes you want, you're a new person here, you should't be so rude.

no worries man, now i'm off to check out your pelican parts picture post...and maybe score some new tie rod boots for my bmw at the same time edit: here's the link http://forums.pelicanparts.com/showt...hreadid=353979

You guys are crazy, Is this a camaro forum or a porsche forum

One more post and you should be able to post pics... I think it's 5 Also if you want to find out if the engine has been replaced there are 2 other ways you can do that. Hook up a tech computer and read the Hours off the engine. (how many hours the engine has been running.) You can also check the underside of the engine and if it has Cosmoline on it, it would be the orginal engine. Replaced engines don't have cosmoline on the bottom as they are nice and clean

Denis, Welcome aboard!!! Really glad you made it over here. I have a load of posts on Pelican too...but I still pale compared to you...but have been a member there for over 5 years....member here for a long time too...just new to the 996 world. I love your car....can't wait to see the end product. I'm thinking you might have some difficulty giving the car up as your new temporary daily.....I know I would. Best, Jon

Denis, looking at it I agree a perfect candidate to tear up. So rip out everything you do not need and then some, then put in the shyte that you do need (roll cage, seat, harness, fire extinguisher system, basically all of the safety stuff). As for performance, well you have a lot of options, you just need to work out the budget. GL and keep us posted.

My friend, I do not mean to pull rank on you; however, I have been a member since 2003. If my memory serves me correctly, that would make me a member longer than you. Since that time, I have yet to see the �attitude� with regards to intros, pixs and etc. We all lead stressful lives and hardly need someone on a bb to give us a lesson on etiquette. We are all part of this community and hope to gain knowledge and share experiences. Porsche stands for CLASS , speed and performance� Let�s keep it that way!

+1 Somewhere along the line some of the n00bs, now considered old-timers to most, started this. I'm not going to name any names, but they went on to post in just about every thread over and over to build their post count and lordy knows for what other reason(s). This drove the more knowledgeable real old-timers away and this board hasn't been the same ever since.

Wow as a newbie I was taken down the wrong road thinking that it was what was expected from newbies, so I passed on that thought. My sincere apologies to all of you that have been here a lot longer than me, this is my first forum and I was mislead I may have done a lot of posting since I joined but that is because I like to be involved, it is not an attempt to achieve a post count, hell I don't even pay attention to it. Lesson learned

No, no, don't get me wrong. Posts are what makes this place go 'round and make it a great place. Don't hold back. I was just ranting about one or two members and their post pics for newbies rule. I think you got it right when you said this: ...and Welcome to the Phunny Pharm denis

sorry guys, i made the same mistake

It could have been worst. Ask for advice about engine failure or motor oil and sit back and watch the fireworks. Anyway here is a picture of where the number is located on a 996. Good luck.

Did someone say MOTOR OIL???????????????????????????????????????????? Welcome D FINALEE heh, just noticed that. Should make it into Car and Driver.

That is what I registered here for, pictures like that. Thank you many times over! My car sits pretty low, so it's a bit of a PIA to slide around on my back w/ it on jack stands holding a flashlight looking for tiny digits on the wrong side. I had been told that it was on the case right above the oil pan, but no one could seem to remember exactly where and I did not know if the shield thing was in the way, etc... I'll have to do a search when I have time for oil and engine failure questions, don't want to stir the pot just yet. This series of Porsche is new to me, but 911s are not. My M.O. is to soak-up knowledge like a crazed banshee until I'm a walking encyclopedia, it is part of my Porsche OCD and this board is essential to that mission. And I like pictures, too. You will get many pictures from me, I can assure you. Thanks again.

Rob - I'm not sure but I may be one of "those" members you were referencing that asks for pics from Newbies. Yes, I do that frequently, but I have always done it as good-natured way. Yes, at times I have posted " Come on, Newbie post the @#$%^&* pics! " but it always ended with a ==> and most often was followed up with " Seriously, Welcome to Rennlist and Congrats on getting your P-car ." None of my "Newbie" posts were ever intended to be condescending or harassing in any way. When I first started to hang out here, I went through the same type of "Newbie Initiation" and never took it as a negative thing. I was just glad that a few of the "old timers" responded to my introduction thread. In fact, it made me feel even more welcome because they asked for some info about my car and for some pics of it. As someone else here stated, is posting a pic REQUIRED? Certainly not! No one EVER said or implied it was a rule. You told TheSpeedDemon, a relative new Member "Don't hold back." So I guess by your "rule" (tongue in cheek here), "Newbies" should not hold back but more "seasoned" Members/Users should hold back? There are going to be different opinions on ANY topic you mention here and the good thing about this forum is that we can all express out opinions freely. That is what I like about Rennlist, that, and the ability to have some fun! If all of our topics were nothing but serious discussions of our cars, this Forum would be as become staid and relatively boring, almost like the 997 forum. Those guys don�t seem to have any fun over there! If the 996 Forum gets to that point, then you guys can have it all to yourselves, because it will no longer be enjoyable to be here.

+1 First thing I did when I joined was intro myself. Seemed like common sense to me. (I'm surprised to see that this kind of sense isn't as common around here as I thought it was.) Then I was welcomed and told to post pics, SO I DID. I didn't cry about it, and no one bitched cause people demanded that of me. I rather enjoy new members and appreciate when someone introduces them self, so I/we can in turn introduce ourselves. Do we give 'em a little hard time and a little slap if they bust out with a question before they intro? Sure we do. It's all in good taste, because as soon as they then make an intro, we all make them feel right at home, with opened arms. This is kind of tradition. Just cause some @#$ wants to come in and say they don't agree with it, here's a suggestion; try sticking around here for a year or two before being so obnoxiously bold. It just blows me away that a member that's been here for a month, and has contributed 20 posts, would be so "vitriolic" towards me, when all I was doing was requesting an intro from a new person.As well as have the gall to impose their views on how the forum should be run. People like that, I really have no use for. I do however understand, some people are just that way, and I accept that. None of this changes the fact that I will expect new people to introduce themselves, before I will help them. Makes the community stronger, IMO.

So Gant, a one night stand with a blonde who has a myspace page and now you have one eh? I think that was my daughter...

Can I call you dad?

Only if you introduce me to my 'daughters' friends.

Since I have all of your attention, how hot is my car supposed to run under normal summer conditions, ie. 75-80deg. ambiant, taking it easy but stuck in traffic some, etc...?? My temp needle is between the 8 and the zero of the 180 and the little light is blinking sometimes. Also, which plugs have people ran with good result besides the dealer plugs, if any? How on earth do I get to the plugs on this car? TIA as always.

For coolant indicators, look here: https://rennlist.com/forums/996-forum/361666-the-not-just-another-flashing-coolant-light-post.html

The temp reading is normal for a 3.4L car. You can read the coolant temp in celsius LED readout through the HVAC controls by following these directions: http://www.cb-racing.com/boxster_AC.html As for blinking light, first to check is coolant level, and bleed the system of air (should do this automatically through several driving cycles, but can be accelerated by manually opening the bleed valve), and then, as you've seen in the other thread, fan operations. There are several threads that go into detail about 3.4L cars cooling. You might want to do a search, these threads might help you familiarize yourself with the common cooling system bugs. As a data point, the coolest my car will run is about 195F (dead plumb needle on gauge; the tick mark to the left of the 8 is 180F). In summer, 200-205F is more common as a normal temp, with stop and go traffic producing low 220's. The engine does seem to handle the higher temps well though. Remains very tractable.

Blinking temp light means low coolant level. When it happen in my car I ended up having to get a new engine; the dreaded intermix problem. I sure hope that is not the case with your car. Good luck. Here�s a link for a DIY spark plug change. http://www.renntech.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=7059