Pelican Parts - Porsche Boxster 986 / 987 and Carrera 996 / 987 Technical Articles

Welcome to our 996/Boxster Technical Articles section. We've gathered a vast collection of useful articles to help you perform many repairs and upgrades on your Porsche. Save money by doing your own work and perform the repairs using the information we've provided here. Can't find what you're looking for? Try our Search Engine at the top of the page, or hop over to one of our Technical Bulletin Boards - focusing on the 996, Boxster, and more! If you'd like to support the site and submit your own Technical Article, contact us here!

Basics & Essentials

Jacking Up and Lifting the Boxster on Jack Stands

Most common tasks need the car to be jacked up in the air.� But where should you place the jack, and what is the safest method of lifting it?� It's all answered here
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Oil Change

The most common task to do on your Boxster or Carrera all the modern 6-cylinder engines are covered here.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Air Filter / Pollen Filter Replacement

New to working on your car?� Not sure where the air filter is?� Check out this simple article.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Fuel Filter Replacement

You should replace your fuel filter about every 10,000 miles or so.� This technical article shows you how to perform this relatively easy maintenance task.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-01) -

Drive Belt Replacement

Here's some short instructions on this very basic of maintenance tasks.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Engine

Boxster Engine Swap / Carrera Engine Conversion Project

The ultimate project for any Boxster owner - installing a Carrera 996 or 997 engine and instantly increasing horsepower. This Wayne's definitive guide.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Intermediate Shaft Bearing Replacement

This one is perhaps the most important article of all. Many 996 and Boxster engines suffer from premature failure of this bearing. This article shows you how you can replace the bearing with the engine in the car and ensure your engine will survive well into the future.

Boxster / 996 Engine Teardown

The most comprehensive Boxster article yet! More than 850 photos document the teardown of a 996 / Boxster engine piece by piece...

Replacing Spark Plugs and Coils

Spark plugs are an important part of your engine - make sure that they are replaced every 10,000 miles or so, to keep your ignition system running smoothly.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Boxster Engine Removal

Everything that you need in order to remove your Boxster engine piece by piece...
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Air / Oil Separator

This emissions device can cause a lot of problems. The good news is that it's easily replaceable, as shown in this tech article.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Replacing Motor Mounts

The Boxster motor mount is manufactured out of rubber, which means it wears out over time. Replacement is relatively easy and is performed from underneath the car.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Oil Pan Gasket Replacement / Deep Sump Installation

The oil pan may leak over time - learn how to reseal this and also consider installing a deep sump engine kit at the same time.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Common Engine Problems and Failures

The Boxster and 996 engines are not necessarily known for being bulletproof. Wayne goes over in detail all of the weak areas prone to failure in these engines.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Camshaft Upgrade / Chain Tensioner Replacement

Looking for more power? How about installing a set of aftermarket camshafts. Or do you need to replace your old, worn out chain tensioners? This article tells all.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Idler Belt Pulley Replacement

The idler pulleys on the front of the engine can wear out after many miles of use. Replacement is easy and only takes a very short amount of time.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Superchargers / Turbo Chargers

Got questions about forced induction? Wayne tries to answer them all here in this detailed article. What to expect, and what to know before you go down this expensive route.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Boxster Oil Change

Bob Tindel shows you how to save $100 by not taking your car to the dealer, and changing your oil yourself. It's easier than you would think!

Time To Rebuild? - Part I & II

Wayne Dempsey outlays the tests and evaluations that you should perform on your engine before deciding it's time for a rebuild.

Ignition Troubleshooting Checklist

Mikko Kosonen has compiled a neat list for owners of all cars to check when they are experiencing problems with their ignition systems.

Clutch & Transmission

Changing Automatic Transmission Fluid

This procedure is a bit difficult without the right knowledge and know-how, which Wayne provides for you right here.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Replacing Transmission Mounts

Transmission mounts will wear out over time. If yours are loose or leaking, then that's a clear sign that they need to be replaced.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Transmission Removal

Getting to that clutch is no easy task, but it can definitely be done by the average home mechanic.� Following this step-by-step process, you can hardly go wrong.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Differential / Manual Transmission Fluid Change

One of the easiest tasks to perform on your Boxster / 996 is to change the transmission or differential oil, but just in case you need a bit of guidance, be sure to read Wayne's article first.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Limited Slip Differential (LSD) Installation

A Limited Slip Differential is one of those go-fast parts that is an almost requirement for track cars. Quaife differentials are good too, and the differential overhaul is documented here.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Wheel Bearing Replacement

The Pelican site has never had a good wheel bearing replacement article until now. Wayne took special care to document all aspects of wheel bearing replacement, and the principles are applicable to almost any car.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Replacing CV Joints and Boots / Axle Replacement

Clunk!� Looks like it's time to replace your CV axles.� Find out what you need to know about the procedure here.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Installing a Short Shift Kit and Replacing Shift Bushings

Installing a short-shift kit (SSK) is probably the number one most popular upgrade for these Porsche cars.� Detailed instructions on the process are here in this tech article.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Gear Shift Knob Replacement and Upgrade

Not sure if you can do the install? � Wayne figured out how to make it really easy - just check out these instructions on the topic, and get it done in about an hour or two.�
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Clutch Replacement

One of our biggest and most comprehensive articles yet.� From start to finish, all the instructions are here, along with about 70 photos too!
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Clutch Hydraulics Overhaul (Master Cylinder & Slave Cylinder Replacement)

Clutch pedal feeling spongy?� Try replacing your slave or master cylinder and rebleeding your system.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Fuel Injection

Reading Fuel Injection Fault Codes / Diagnosing Problems

You can't figure out what is wrong with your car without first checking the fault codes. This article shows you what you need to ""get a clue"" about what is ailing your car.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Troubleshooting Vacuum Leaks

Check the tool used in this article - a smoke machine! Everyone should have one - they are way too cool.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Oxygen Sensor Replacement

Almost all cars eventually need new oxygen sensors at one time or another. Replacement is relatively easy with the step-by-step instructions shown here.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Fuel Pump Replacement

Worried about doing this swap?� Don't be - we have all the info you need, including your pre-flight safety check!
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Cold Air Intake Installation

A properly designed cold air induction system can give your car a little boost in performance, but make sure you know what you're getting first by reading this article.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Installing Performance DME Map Software

Want some more HP out of your car?� Try an easy-to-install software upgrade, and be on the road in 30 minutes with more performance.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Fuel Injector Replacement

If your injectors are leaking, or you're thinking they are clogged, here is a step-by-step procedure on how to change them out.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Engine Sensor Replacement

The engine has lots of sensors, this article shows you where they are and what is involved in their replacement.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Troubleshooting and Replacing the Mass Air Flow Sensor (MAF)

There's a lot of confusion regarding the mass air flow sensor. Read Wayne's advice before you replace yours so that you make sure that you get the proper one for your car.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Throttle Body Replacement / Cleaning Intake & Boots

A dirty throttle body can cause rough running, lost power, and poor fuel economy. Clean your throttle body and replace the intake boots with the instructions here.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Modifying the Boxster On Board Computer

Yoseif Whiteman has figured out how to activate your Boxster computer, that is normally disabled by the factory (expensive option to turn on).

DME Troubleshooting Chart

Got a problem with your Motronic System? Check out this chart for problems, and component locations.

Cooling System

Coolant Replacement / Coolant Flush

Check it out - Wayne explains more than you ever wanted to know about your cooling system, why you need to maintain it regularly, and how to change that pesky coolant.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Radiator Hose Replacement

The Boxster has like a gazillion radiator hoses on it. This article tells you which ones are which and how to replace them when needed.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Center Radiator Installation

Is your car running too hot on the street or at the track? The solution is a center-mounted radiator, like the one installed on the venerable GT3.
Applies to: -

Radiator Replacement and Cleaning

Got a pin-hole leak in your radiator?� Want to upgrade to a better cooling one?� It's pretty easy to remove and reinstall your radiator.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Coolant Tank Replacement

These coolant tanks are well known to crack and leak coolant all over your trunk. Replacement can be a bit of a bear, but eased by the instructions afforded here.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Water Pump & Thermostat Replacement

When replacing your water pump, you should also replace your thermostat as well.� Here's easy instructions on how to swap both of them out.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Suspension

Alignment Principles

Any modification or repair made to your suspension system is bound to affect its alignment.� Even though it's still important to know a good alignment shop, learn how you might be able to align your car at home in this article.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Front/Rear Suspension Overhaul

Your shocks aren't the only parts of the suspension system that wear out.� Take the time to overhaul the entire front end carefully and you'll feel much better that you did so.� Really!
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Performance Suspension / Lowering / PSS10 Installation

The PSS performance suspension kit from Bilstein is one of the top performing kits available for the Boxster and Carrera series.� Wayne shows you how to install it correctly in this article.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Camber Bar Installation

A strut tower brace links the top of the shock towers to insure that the towers do not bend when the chassis is flexing.� Find out more about how they work and which designs are best in this article.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Steering Wheel - 3-Spoke Wheel Upgrade

The stock four-spoke steering wheel on these cars was seemingly designed to be ugly to get people to upgrade to the gorgeous 3-spoke wheel. Here's instructions on how to upgrade.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Replacing Shocks & Springs

Replacement of your shocks and springs is one of the most common procedures for your Boxster or 996. See Wayne's instructions here for complete details on the replacement process.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Rear Suspension Support - Pedro Bar

Installation of the rear camber bar stiffens up the suspension and makes the car handle a lot better.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Body / Interior / Exterior

Replacing Lenses and Blubs / Adding Clear Corners

Broken lenses aren't just eyesores, but they can get you a ticket too.� Well, if they're broken, then you might as well replace them with something that looks a little better too!� Clear Euro-style lenses just might do the trick.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Replacing Emblems

One of the more simpler tasks, spending about 30 minutes on replacing emblems on your car can dramatically improve the exterior aesthetics of your car.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Das Shield Protector

The Das Schild protector is a 30-minute install, and protects your front and rear trunks from items that are floating around in there.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Front Bumper Removal

A lot of tasks (radiator replacement, etc) require the removal of the front bumper. It's pretty easy and we show you how in this article.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Installing the Hardop and Installation Kit

The Boxster hard top is one of the coolest accessories around, but there is some confusion about its installation. These useful steps show you exactly what you need to do.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Convertible New Top

Yikes! Replacing your convertible top is one of the most difficult tasks around, and is not for the faint of heart. Jared and Wayne teamed up to provide detailed instructions for the Boxster show how to upgrade to the newer style glass window roofs.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Convertible Top Repair

If your convertible top is stuck up or down, the mechanism needs repair. In this article Wayne goes over all of the aspects of the roof and what is need to repair it.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Smart Top Roof Control Installation

The SmartTop is a neat device that allows you to lower your roof while still driving. Wayne also documents the inexpensive solution here too.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) -

Sport Seat Installation / Seat Removal

Need better seats for your Boxster or 996? The good news is that most are plug-and-play, as shown here.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Installing 997 Seats Into a 986 Boxster

Think this is easy? Try again! Luckily, Jan Kramer shows us how to perform this retrofit in a few illustrated steps.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04)

Headlamp Film Installation

Do you have $2500 Litronic headlamps on your car? Protect them with headlamp film that can be installed pretty easily in about an hour or so.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Boxster Roof Transport System Installation

Ever wondered whether the Porsche Roof Transport System was worth the $$$ Check out Mike Rentner's installation and overview of the product, and decide for yourself!

GT3 Center Console Upgrade

If you're really tall like Wayne, you might want to upgrade to the GT3 center console, which will give you a lot more legroom when driving.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) -

Door Panel Removal / Mirror Switch Replacement

Many tasks require removal of the door panel, which can be tricky if you haven't done it before. Wayne shows you where all of the hidden fasteners lie.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Window Regulator Replacement / Window Switch Replacement / Window Motor Replacement

The window regulator is one of the most worn out parts of the car. Every time you open the door, it moves the window. Replacing the regulator will solve most window problems. Complete instructions on the replacement and window alignment are here.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Door Lock Mechanism / Door Handle

The door lock mechanism takes a lot of abuse. Wayne shows you how to get to this item and replace it relatively easily.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Hood Shock Replacement

Bump! Don't you hate when your lids fall on your head? Hood shocks do wear out often, and replacement literally takes about 10 minutes.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Rear Spoiler Installation

Want to put a cool real spoiler on your car? Check out the procedure here, and also the shots that Wayne has taken of some Boxster spoilers over the years.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Boxster Bra Installation

Bob Tindel shows us the basics for protecting the paint job on your new Boxster..

Door Sill Installation

Protect your paint and keep your car looking sharp with new door sills. 15-minute installation makes these a snap!

Detailing your Porsche

Bob Tindel has spent many hours detailing his 911SC and his new Boxster. Here he shares his hints and tips.

Concours Corner: Cleaning Your Engine, Part I

Need some tips on this seemingly daunting task? Bev Frohm teaches the dos and don'ts of cleaning your engine in part one of this series.

Concours Corner: Cleaning Your Engine, Part II

Part II covers more of the procedure in getting your engine to shine.

Making Your Window Molding Look New

Here's a neat guest article detailing a really good procedure for improving the look of your weather-beaten aluminum window trim.

Concours Corner: All About Bras

Once again, Bev offers up some suggestions and tips learned from experience with her concours winning 911.

Concours Corner: Washing Your Car

Bev Frohm gives us some tips and tricks for washing your car in this article which is the first in a series.

Concours Corner: Rubber Strip Conditioning

Ever wonder what to use on your precious rubber stripping? Concours winner Bev Frohm gives us some suggestions for prolonging the life of your weatherstripping.

Concours Corner: Polishing Alloy Wheels

Bev Frohm offers up some tips and tricks for polishing and maintaining your Fuchs alloy wheels to a mirror finish.

Alloy Wheel Painting

Lawrence Bonkowski shows us some steps and tricks for getting a great looking alloy wheel paint job.

Exhaust, Heating, and Air Conditioning

Muffler Replacement

Muffler rusty, too loud, or too soft?� Replacement is easy with this simple-to-follow tech article.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Installing a Performance Exhaust System

When the stock muffler just doesn't cut it, try out a Fabspeed exhaust, as installed by Wayne on Pelican's 3.4 Boxster conversion. The sound and performance is really great - very well balanced and relatively straightforward to install.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Exhaust System Upgrades

Bob Tindel offers his review of the GHL stainless steel mufflers offered by Pelican.

Electrical, Headlamps, and Gauges

Battery Disconnect Switch / Battery Buddy Installation

Is your battery failing on you after leaving the car in your garage for an extended period of time? You probably need a battery buddy to keep it trickle charged.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Alternator Replacement

One of the nice things about the configuration of the BMW engine is the relative ease with which you can replace the alternator.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Starter Replacement

Now that you've determined that the starter is bad, learn how to replace it without electrocuting yourself by reading this article here.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Budget HID Headlamp Retrofit

Don't have the money for the Bosch Litronic headlamp kit? Try the inexpensive alternative, which is shown here.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Litronic Headlamp Kit Upgrade

This is the factory upgrade kit for the Boxster and 996. If your car didn't originally have the Litronic kit installed, then this is the kit that you really want to have.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) -

Ignition Switch Replacement

The ignition switches on these cars is very prone to failure. Porsche redesigned the part and everyone will probably eventually have to upgrade when theirs eventually fails.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Headlamp Switch Replacement

Replacing this switch is relatively easy, so if yours is broken, now's the time to fix it!
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Changing Your Stereo Head Unit / Installing Ipod Integration

Is your 10-year old radio head unit just not cutting it any more?.� Crank up the tunes with an aftermarket unit - the install procedure is documented here.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Installing the Rear Speaker Kit

A popular option, the rear speaker kit is a great way to improve the total performance of your stereo system in your Boxster.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

996 Gauge Cluster Upgrade

You can easily install a 996 Carrera gauge cluster into your Boxster to give you the added functionality of the Carrera unit.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) -

On Board Computer (OBC) Upgrade

The Boxster gauge cluster has a built-in on board computer that you can activate and install using the information provided here.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) -

Cruise Control Installation

If your car didn't have cruise control installed at the factory, you can inexpensively add it to your car using the instructions provided here.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (2000-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Brake Pedal Switch Replacement / Clutch Pedal Switch Replacement

Have all your brake lights stopped working all of a sudden?� It's probably your brake pedal switch - replacement is a 30 minute job.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Sprint Booster Installation

The Sprint Booster is like a short shift kit for your accelerator pedal. With the company's 3-day money-back guarantee, there's no risk to trying it out.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (2000-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Boxster Litronic Headlamp Upgrade Installation

Mike Rentner gives us the low-down on the installation of the extremely popular factory Litronic Headlamp Upgrade for the Boxster.

Integrated Garage Door Opener

Greg Gulik shows us how he took a plain vanilla garage door opener, and integrated it into the buttons on his Boxster's center console.

Integrated Valentine One Radar Detector

Greg Gulik again shows us a neat way to integrate the Valentine One radar detector (or any detector) so that it's always on, and not hogging the cigarette lighter.

Installing your own Rear Speakers

Prior to the release of the Rear Speaker Kit from Porsche, Greg Gulik added his own inexpensive option to his Boxster.

Rear Speaker Kit Installation

Bob Tindel does it again with an excellent tech article on this inexpensive and easy stereo upgrade. With more than 30 pictures to guide you through the process!

Starter System Troubleshooting

Here's a great guest article by James K. Thorusen that describes in detail the problems and solutions for troubleshooting your starter system problems.

An Easy and Inexpensive Ignition Cut-Off Switch

Here's a little trick that will disable the ignition system on your car, preventing your pride and joy from being stolen.

Brakes

Bleeding Brakes

Another tricky process.� Here's a couple of hints and tips gathered from some good and bad experiences in brake bleeding.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Replacing Brake Pads

Want to know how to perform this relatively easy task and save some money at the same time?� Check out our step-by-step instructions on brake pad replacement.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Rebuilding Brake Calipers

Eventually you will need to rebuild your calipers. In reality, calipers are very simple devices and can be rebuilt in an afternoon using the information provided here.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Parking Brake Adjustment

Is your e-brake not working too well?� Put it back into adjustment in less than 30 minutes.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Big Brake Kit Upgrade

Need more brakes? The Brembo kit is the top-dog in performance brakes. Wayne R. Dempsey shows you how easy the installation can be.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Parking Brake Shoe Replacement

Parking shoes wear, particularly if your ""better half"" drives with the brake on all the time. Replacement can be tricky, but using the instructions here can be done in an extended afternoon.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Brake Line Replacement

Repeated heat cycling and fluid contamination will eventually cause the inside of the lines to swell and the outside to crack.� You've been warned, so now it's time to take action.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Brake Rotor Replacement

Stop! Yes, that's exactly what you want to do... but you can't always do so effectively if your brake rotors are worn too thin. Learn how to replace those old discs properly in this article here.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Master Cylinder Replacement

The brake master cylinder does sometimes get old and wear out. If your brakes are feeling spongy, then you might need to overhaul your system, which includes replacement of the master cylinder.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Replacing the Brake Booster and ABS Controller

The booster is an important part of braking assistance, and if the rubber diaphragm gets old and breaks, then you need to replace it.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Painting your Calipers

Once you detail your calipers, no one will be able to tell the difference between your stock ones and the lobster claws of the big reds.

Bleeding Porsche Brakes

Another tricky process. Here's a couple of hints and tips gathered from some good and bad experiences in brake bleeding.

Miscellaneous

Tire and Wheel Sizing

Putting the wrong size tires on your wheels can alter your speedometer readings and might not look right. Check out this article for detailed information on tire sizing.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Dyno Testing

Who isn't curious about how much power they're transferring to the wheels?� Learn about all the basics from Wayne before you strap your car onto a dyno for the first time.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Roof Rack System (Roof Transport System - RTS)

Need more luggage space? The Porsche engineers designed a unique roof rack system for the Boxster that is like no other.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) -

Porsche Child Seat Installation

Got kids? Wayne's got a few, and explains the installation of the Porsche air bag deactivation bar. It's simple, yet the Porsche dealers will lead you to believe it takes a physics degree to do it. Full instructions here.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Air Conditioning Recharge

This article is not intended to be a repair manual for your A/C system, but to serve more as a guide on how the system works, and the maintenance involved with its upkeep.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Track Preparation / Rollbar extension

Planning on building a Boxster-spec racer? Here's a list of things Wayne compiled that you might want to consider for your car.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Personal Touches

Wayne's been all over the California coast photographing unique Boxsters. This article shows some of the many things you can do to enhance the look of your Boxster.
Applies to: 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-08)

Jacking up your Boxster/996

Bob shows us the best way to jack up your car without damaging the undercarriage in the process.

Affordable Porsches

Originally published in GrassRoots Motorsports magazine, this article chronicles the affordable Porsche options available for you to acquire.

Tire Size Calculator

Ever wondered what the exact dimensions of tires are for your car? Plug in the confusing tire size (ex. 215/60/16), and it will give you physical dimensions.

AC Hydraulic DK13HLQ Jack Drop Speed Adjustment

The AC Hydraulic DK13HLQ is quite simply, the best floor jack we have ever used. Learn how its drop speed can be adjusted here.

Hot Rodding Your Floor Jack

What can we say, Tom Sharpes has way too much time on his hands...

Home Toe-in and Camber Adjustment

John Rogers offers a neat article with specs on adjusting your toe-in and camber with homemade tools.

Porsche Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI)

Paul Lighthill offers a very comprehensive guide to the pre-purchase inspection of your new Porsche.

The Physics of Racing Series

Brian Beckman offers one of the best explanations of the physics of racing and what you need to do to achieve better performance in this 12-part series.

Street Dyno!

Recording the ignition spark pulses into a wave file and processing it using the software can give a pretty accurate HP/Torque rating for your engine.

All About Gasoline

Here's a document that explains everything that you may have ever wanted to know about gasoline. This covers everything from formulations, to smog tests, to octane ratings.

All About Motor Oils

Ever wondered about the formulations of motor oils? This document explains the differences, and the formulations, and why which one is best for your car.

Making Sense of Synthetic Lubricants

Don Stevens offers some insight on the facts, myths, and trials of synthetic oil in automobiles.

Transmission Final Drive Computer

Here is a little program John Rogers wrote to do some speed vs RPM calculations after he did a rally a couple of months ago. It's pretty fun to play around with.

Porsche Air Conditioning Frequently Asked Questions

Here is some expert advice and information on the early Air Conditioning systems installed in Porsches, as well as some history of the aftermarket units.

Building an In-Dash Air-Mixture Monitor

Gabriel Pennella offers a great article on building a monitor that you can use while driving to fine-tune your performance.

MIG Welder Maladies & Bodywork Book Review

Kyle Ehler offers some advice on MIG Welders, and some opinions on some bodywork books.

Rekeying Porsche Locks

Have two or more keys on your key chain for your Porsche? Missing a key to one of your locks? Rekey your locks with our tech article, and carry a lighter load on your keychain.

Rice's Ramblings, Part I

Lee Rices offers tech tips and suggestions on spark plugs, CATs, installing later-style gauges in early cars, and buying new tires.

Rice's Ramblings, Part II

Lee Rices offers tech tips and suggestions on emergency breakdown kits, replacing the 911 fan belt, and stopping squealing disc brakes.

Welding Primer & Review

Many thanks to Mike Cooley and John Dunkle for writing this primer on welding. Check it out if you're interested in learning more about 'the black art of welding.

Got more questions? Join us in our 996 and Boxster Technical Forum Message Boards, and ask a question to one of our many automotive experts.