Poverty Pork - '00 986
Discussion
Took last Thursday off and went to my 'home' dropzone in North Lincolnshire for a long weekend. Fully loaded with a weeks worth of clothes / toiletries and skydiving gear / rigs for two people (which somehow all fit in the boots - I was expecting to have to use the passenger footwell!). Tank brimmed today and the old school method of working out economy shows it returned 25 MPG and I wasn't hanging about.
I heard a lound bang when I was coming back on the M62 on Monday and thought it was a stone chip but couldn't see anything. Found it when I got home. Annoying, as the windscreen has barely got 16k miles on it. It is quite nasty - will find out if it can be repaired on Saturday.
DSC_0620 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Just had the spark plugs done along with the air filter.
Took some pictures whilst at Cath's.
DSC_0629 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
The business end.
DSC_0641 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0632 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0640 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Something's missing...
DSC_0647 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0636 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0639 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
May have found a cheap rear ARB to replace the corroded one that's currently on.
I heard a lound bang when I was coming back on the M62 on Monday and thought it was a stone chip but couldn't see anything. Found it when I got home. Annoying, as the windscreen has barely got 16k miles on it. It is quite nasty - will find out if it can be repaired on Saturday.
DSC_0620 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrJust had the spark plugs done along with the air filter.
Took some pictures whilst at Cath's.
DSC_0629 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrThe business end.
DSC_0641 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0632 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0640 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrSomething's missing...
DSC_0647 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0636 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0639 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrMay have found a cheap rear ARB to replace the corroded one that's currently on.
Right, someone from Autoglass came earlier today only to say my windscreen couldn't be repaired as it was a 'double impact'. No aspersions towards fitting a new windscreen, but am a bit pissed off with Autoglass as this was clearly visible on the photos I uploaded to them. Also, the weather's lovely so rather than waiting around, I could have been doing something more productive / fun.
Anyway, not too impressed, I contacted glassman (Paul) who's a regular contributor to pistonheads and a member of TIPEC down south. I've only heard good things about him. He suggested a repair would seem possible by someone competent. Based near London meant logistics wouldn't work, however, he recommended someone very local to my place of work. I'll update with any further progress.
Now as the sun was out, I decided to tackle a couple of issues on my car. The passenger's outer window seal kept catching on the window whilst lowered, and folding in, putting a lot of stress on the window regulator. It'd pop back out when the window was raised. A new seal was nearly £200. A little bit of searching on the internet suggested some silicone spray may solve the problem. So, bought a can from Halfords. Didn't have any expectations, but it's fixed it!
Secondly, an issue with the light in the front boot. This generally doesn't work but I have seen it on once in a blue moon. The bulb was fine when swapped with the rear boot and my multimeter was saying zero volts. Also, the alarm wouldn't beep if locked with the boot open. I suspected the microswitch in the locking mechanism. Before buying a new one, I investigated. Below is a mini how-to:
You'll need socket set with 10mm head, a flat head screwdriver, fine nose pliers and maybe some silicone spray.
Open the boot. Notice the dead light. There's a plastic trim held in by four plastic screw-like fasteners (one's missing on mine...). These unlock by turning them 90 degrees so the 'head' is horizontal. You can then pull the trim off.
DSC_0655 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
You'll be greeted with this:
DSC_0683 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
There are a couple of fasteners holding the front of the boot carpet in place (one's missing one mine...notice a theme?
). These come off with some twisting and pulling.
DSC_0685 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
I didn't take any pictures of this, but the latching mechanism is held in place with two 10mm bolts. Loosen these. There's a metal backing plate / cover that sits behind the mechanism.
DSC_0678 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
You should be able to remove this with the bolts loosened. Remove the bolts completely. There are a couple of cables and an electrical connector that need to be removed.
Remove this one first. Just prises out with a flat head screwdriver. Be careful not to damage the rubber bung.
DSC_0677 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Undo the electrical connector behind the boot carpet that leads to the mechanism. One side just simply slides off by depressing the ends and pulling. The other (below) is clipped into the front of the boot. The bit of plastic in the middle (this is the side that is clipped to the car) need to be prised away to unclip the connector from the car.
DSC_0674 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Once this is done, you should be able to squeeze the rubber bung and cable / connector through towards the front of the car and pull it through
DSC_0675 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Disconnect the second cable. This is clipped at two points. Be careful not to cause any damage.
DSC_0673 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
You can now remove the latch mechanism.
DSC_0657 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
The microswitch and actuator cam are beneath a black plastic cover (with what look like a couple of philips screw heads at the bottom), which is clipped to the mechanism at the top. Unclip this and pop it out:
DSC_0664 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
The issue was obvious. The cam is spring loaded and should close the switch without any assistance. However it doesn't:
DSC_0670 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
This is what it should do (and close the switch):
DSC_0669 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Connect the microswitch back to the plug in the boot and you should be able to turn the light on and off my moving (and assisting) the cam to the closed and open position.
The microswitch and electrical connector can be easily prised out with a flat head screwdriver:
DSC_0671 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
I bent the metal actuator slightly with some fine nose pliers so the cam would have less resistance. I also lubed the cam with silicone. Once the switch and cam are assembed back together, ensure the cam now closes the switch without any assistance.
Refit the microswitch assembly to the latch mechanism and fit the whole this back to the car (reverse of removal). Don't bother with the trim panel just yet. The light should now be on.
DSC_0679 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Close the latch mechanism manually with a screwdriver to ensure the microswitch is operating correctly and the light goes out. Make sure to push the latch all the way so it closes
2017-04-22_05-42-24 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
This is a good opportunity to test the boot release still works correctly. The latch should release and the light should come back on.
If all is well, close the boot. Check the level of the boot - you may have to loosen the bolts on the latch mechanism to adjust the height so the boot closes flush with the bumper.
You can test the microswitch is working by dropping the boot but not pushing it down. Try locking the car and the alarm will beep, indicating something isn't close. Unlock with the central locking and close the boot properly. Lock again and you shouldn't get a beep.
Total cost: £5 and some pennies.
Winning
Anyway, not too impressed, I contacted glassman (Paul) who's a regular contributor to pistonheads and a member of TIPEC down south. I've only heard good things about him. He suggested a repair would seem possible by someone competent. Based near London meant logistics wouldn't work, however, he recommended someone very local to my place of work. I'll update with any further progress.
Now as the sun was out, I decided to tackle a couple of issues on my car. The passenger's outer window seal kept catching on the window whilst lowered, and folding in, putting a lot of stress on the window regulator. It'd pop back out when the window was raised. A new seal was nearly £200. A little bit of searching on the internet suggested some silicone spray may solve the problem. So, bought a can from Halfords. Didn't have any expectations, but it's fixed it!
Secondly, an issue with the light in the front boot. This generally doesn't work but I have seen it on once in a blue moon. The bulb was fine when swapped with the rear boot and my multimeter was saying zero volts. Also, the alarm wouldn't beep if locked with the boot open. I suspected the microswitch in the locking mechanism. Before buying a new one, I investigated. Below is a mini how-to:
You'll need socket set with 10mm head, a flat head screwdriver, fine nose pliers and maybe some silicone spray.
Open the boot. Notice the dead light. There's a plastic trim held in by four plastic screw-like fasteners (one's missing on mine...). These unlock by turning them 90 degrees so the 'head' is horizontal. You can then pull the trim off.
DSC_0655 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrYou'll be greeted with this:
DSC_0683 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrThere are a couple of fasteners holding the front of the boot carpet in place (one's missing one mine...notice a theme?
). These come off with some twisting and pulling.DSC_0685 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrI didn't take any pictures of this, but the latching mechanism is held in place with two 10mm bolts. Loosen these. There's a metal backing plate / cover that sits behind the mechanism.
DSC_0678 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrYou should be able to remove this with the bolts loosened. Remove the bolts completely. There are a couple of cables and an electrical connector that need to be removed.
Remove this one first. Just prises out with a flat head screwdriver. Be careful not to damage the rubber bung.
DSC_0677 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrUndo the electrical connector behind the boot carpet that leads to the mechanism. One side just simply slides off by depressing the ends and pulling. The other (below) is clipped into the front of the boot. The bit of plastic in the middle (this is the side that is clipped to the car) need to be prised away to unclip the connector from the car.
DSC_0674 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrOnce this is done, you should be able to squeeze the rubber bung and cable / connector through towards the front of the car and pull it through
DSC_0675 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDisconnect the second cable. This is clipped at two points. Be careful not to cause any damage.
DSC_0673 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrYou can now remove the latch mechanism.
DSC_0657 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrThe microswitch and actuator cam are beneath a black plastic cover (with what look like a couple of philips screw heads at the bottom), which is clipped to the mechanism at the top. Unclip this and pop it out:
DSC_0664 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrThe issue was obvious. The cam is spring loaded and should close the switch without any assistance. However it doesn't:
DSC_0670 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrThis is what it should do (and close the switch):
DSC_0669 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrConnect the microswitch back to the plug in the boot and you should be able to turn the light on and off my moving (and assisting) the cam to the closed and open position.
The microswitch and electrical connector can be easily prised out with a flat head screwdriver:
DSC_0671 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrI bent the metal actuator slightly with some fine nose pliers so the cam would have less resistance. I also lubed the cam with silicone. Once the switch and cam are assembed back together, ensure the cam now closes the switch without any assistance.
Refit the microswitch assembly to the latch mechanism and fit the whole this back to the car (reverse of removal). Don't bother with the trim panel just yet. The light should now be on.
DSC_0679 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrClose the latch mechanism manually with a screwdriver to ensure the microswitch is operating correctly and the light goes out. Make sure to push the latch all the way so it closes
2017-04-22_05-42-24 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrThis is a good opportunity to test the boot release still works correctly. The latch should release and the light should come back on.
If all is well, close the boot. Check the level of the boot - you may have to loosen the bolts on the latch mechanism to adjust the height so the boot closes flush with the bumper.
You can test the microswitch is working by dropping the boot but not pushing it down. Try locking the car and the alarm will beep, indicating something isn't close. Unlock with the central locking and close the boot properly. Lock again and you shouldn't get a beep.
Total cost: £5 and some pennies.
Winning
So, things have been a little quiet lately.
Had a new OEM windscreen at the start of the month. Used a local firm off a recommendation from glassman on here that did an excellent job. Autoglass were useless and only contacted me to arrange fitting ten days after they originally came out to say it couldn't be repaired. The firm that did replace mine did try and repair it, but we weren't too happy with the results. They also managed to set fire to their own toolbox, which was amusing, but that's another story.
Today, my dodgy accelerator pedal finally gave up the ghost when the hinge made a load crack and was utterly fubared. I dismantled the old cable throttle pedal a member from boxa.net kindly sent me to have a look at the innards, which seemed slightly different to my DBW pedal. This was despite the internet suggesting otherwise. I managed to salvage the hinge and swap it. Not the best pic:
DSC_0862 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Fubared hinge on the left. Good one on the right. Porsche couldn't find this in their parts catalogue, even with the part number and wanted to sell me an entire pedal instead for three figures.
Was relatively easy to remove:
DSC_0863 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
And take apart:
DSC_0861 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0865 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
And a bit of a pig to put back together again...but it was all done in about 45 minutes. Scary moment when I dropped the mounting screw in the hole the pedal used to be. A lot of profanity ensued, which undoubtedly helped retrieving it from under the carpet. The carpet is waterlogged at the front by the way. I just thought it was the rear, which I have mostly dried out. I only found this out by removing the pedal. I think I'll rip the whole thing out and just replace it in the coming months.
Went for a quick blast down the motorway and some B roads and all is well.
Earlier in the month, I obtained a rear anti roll bar from a chap in Otley who was breaking a 986. There was no play on the original bushes that were on the bar, but upon closer inspection, there was quite a bit of surface corrosion.
DSC_0778 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
It was still a solid bar. So, I sanded it down...
DSC_0780 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Applied a layer of Kurust...
DSC_0789 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
And some Hammerite...
DSC_0795 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Finished product:
DSC_0866 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Will fit it on Saturday and see if it was worth it.
I also got contacted by a chap on here inviting me for a run with some Lamborghini enthusiasts on Sunday in Cheshire.
Shall report back.
Had a new OEM windscreen at the start of the month. Used a local firm off a recommendation from glassman on here that did an excellent job. Autoglass were useless and only contacted me to arrange fitting ten days after they originally came out to say it couldn't be repaired. The firm that did replace mine did try and repair it, but we weren't too happy with the results. They also managed to set fire to their own toolbox, which was amusing, but that's another story.
Today, my dodgy accelerator pedal finally gave up the ghost when the hinge made a load crack and was utterly fubared. I dismantled the old cable throttle pedal a member from boxa.net kindly sent me to have a look at the innards, which seemed slightly different to my DBW pedal. This was despite the internet suggesting otherwise. I managed to salvage the hinge and swap it. Not the best pic:
DSC_0862 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrFubared hinge on the left. Good one on the right. Porsche couldn't find this in their parts catalogue, even with the part number and wanted to sell me an entire pedal instead for three figures.
Was relatively easy to remove:
DSC_0863 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrAnd take apart:
DSC_0861 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0865 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrAnd a bit of a pig to put back together again...but it was all done in about 45 minutes. Scary moment when I dropped the mounting screw in the hole the pedal used to be. A lot of profanity ensued, which undoubtedly helped retrieving it from under the carpet. The carpet is waterlogged at the front by the way. I just thought it was the rear, which I have mostly dried out. I only found this out by removing the pedal. I think I'll rip the whole thing out and just replace it in the coming months.
Went for a quick blast down the motorway and some B roads and all is well.
Earlier in the month, I obtained a rear anti roll bar from a chap in Otley who was breaking a 986. There was no play on the original bushes that were on the bar, but upon closer inspection, there was quite a bit of surface corrosion.
DSC_0778 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrIt was still a solid bar. So, I sanded it down...
DSC_0780 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrApplied a layer of Kurust...
DSC_0789 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrAnd some Hammerite...
DSC_0795 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrFinished product:
DSC_0866 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrWill fit it on Saturday and see if it was worth it.
I also got contacted by a chap on here inviting me for a run with some Lamborghini enthusiasts on Sunday in Cheshire.
Shall report back.
Got the RARB fitted yesterday. Next point of call is to sort out the carpet and condensers.
So, went to my first SupercarSocial meet today. A nice chap from boxa.net came a long too in Suzi's twin Sounds a lot more fruitier than mine due to some reason and thought he had the exhaust bypass mod - I was surprised to find out that it's allegedly standard. 2.5 vs 2.7 though. After today, I do feel I need a more purposeful exhaust. I need to experience a drive in a 986 with the bypass mod before committing
It was a lovely day out and a great opportunity to meet like minded enthusiasts. Different cars, different walks of life, but the same passion.
My friend Paul brought his DSLR, which puts my phone pics to shame. I'll upload a selection once I've got hold of copies. However, here's a few of twin sisters with their grandfather:
DSC_0901 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0899 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0898 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0895 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
1958 Porsche 356 Speedster. One of 24 RHD ever bullt.
So, went to my first SupercarSocial meet today. A nice chap from boxa.net came a long too in Suzi's twin
Sounds a lot more fruitier than mine due to some reason and thought he had the exhaust bypass mod - I was surprised to find out that it's allegedly standard. 2.5 vs 2.7 though. After today, I do feel I need a more purposeful exhaust. I need to experience a drive in a 986 with the bypass mod before committingIt was a lovely day out and a great opportunity to meet like minded enthusiasts. Different cars, different walks of life, but the same passion.
My friend Paul brought his DSLR, which puts my phone pics to shame. I'll upload a selection once I've got hold of copies. However, here's a few of twin sisters with their grandfather:
DSC_0901 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0899 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0898 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0895 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr1958 Porsche 356 Speedster. One of 24 RHD ever bullt.
AdDaMan said:
How is the handling now? If it still feels a little sketchy at motorway speeds i can almost guarantee you its those shocking tyres you bought.
I made the same mistake after reading lots of positive things about them. Absolutely ruined my stability and handling and in the end removed them after 500miles and all was perfect again.
Handling's pretty good now it's been aligned, although it could perhaps be improved further. Not sure if I'm expecting too much - haven't driven one on fresh suspension / tyres to figure out what to expect. Dampers and rear springs are original and closing in on 118k.I made the same mistake after reading lots of positive things about them. Absolutely ruined my stability and handling and in the end removed them after 500miles and all was perfect again.
What tyres do you suggest? My fronts are some Dunlops that have decent tread, but are a little past it and really could do with replacing.
A few of / from my car from Paul's camera. The first one's my favourite.
NKA_0444 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
NKA_0443 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
NKA_0377 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
And THE shot of the 356. Captions on a postcard
NKA_0407 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Full album: https://flic.kr/s/aHsm1bLh3u
NKA_0444 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrNKA_0443 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrNKA_0377 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrAnd THE shot of the 356. Captions on a postcard
NKA_0407 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrFull album: https://flic.kr/s/aHsm1bLh3u
Not much to report, apart from a year's ticket. First time in a while where there are no advisories!
DSC_1015 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1015 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrHeaveho said:
Donald Trump has a 356? Who knew.
Nice Boxster, btw, I like threads like this.
Ha, didn't notice the slight resemblance to the POTUS. Thanks for the compliment.Nice Boxster, btw, I like threads like this.
Haven't updated this in a while. The 986 has been behaving pretty well. The same can't be said about the Polo. June: broken front spring. July: blown starter motor. August: Misfire. All is good now (injector wiring loom was replaced a few weeks ago and no misfire in 1000 miles...).
I've enjoyed the car over summer. I've been on a couple of lovely drives with the Northern boxa.net crew in the Peak District. Some nice technical roads where you can really have fun without doing silly speeds.
DSC_1147 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1157 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1176 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrTriplets!
DSC_1188 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1187 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1186 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1185 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1184 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrI have made a few friends, some quite mechanically minded. I still haven't got round to sorting the AC condensers, but hope to embark on that soon. The mercury is starting to drop, but it's an absolute pig to demist. Apparently, working AC improves this.
Don't really have any plans to upgrade / change for some time. Plan on paying off the credit cards shortly and then perhaps saving for some bricks and mortar, as long as the Polo doesn't play up. There are a few bit and pieces I may tackle over the next year or so, including some minor bodywork / a good detail, ICE and perhaps a slightly fruitier exhaust.
Seems to be doing consistent mid to high 20s in the MPG department, even when used properly.
CornedBeef, I spotted your thread after seeing your post in poppopbangbang's thread. Your 996 is lovely in guards red with the GT3 kit. You'd be more than welcome to join us in the Peak District one day. PM me closer to the time. Runs happen at least once a month, although I'm not too sure about winter.
Regarding the accelerator pedal, I'm not sure if it's a common problem per se, but there are a few threads online, so it's not unheard of. The cable throttle and DBW pedals are similar. The plastic hinge certainly had the same part number. Mine is a DBW car, but I swapped over the innards from a cable throttled 2.5 986.
You may have better luck than me tracking the hinge (WHY make it from plastic?!) quoting the part number above to your local OPC. Otherwise, obtain a good used 986 or 996 pedal and swap the hinge over.
Regarding the accelerator pedal, I'm not sure if it's a common problem per se, but there are a few threads online, so it's not unheard of. The cable throttle and DBW pedals are similar. The plastic hinge certainly had the same part number. Mine is a DBW car, but I swapped over the innards from a cable throttled 2.5 986.
You may have better luck than me tracking the hinge (WHY make it from plastic?!) quoting the part number above to your local OPC. Otherwise, obtain a good used 986 or 996 pedal and swap the hinge over.
So, the thread has been a little quiet recently. Mainly because all has been well and secondly, because the Boxster hasn't been used as much recently. Not so much because of the weather, but because I was on holiday last month.
Since 2015, the Algarve has been an annual ritual for me during Autumn. Sun, sea and skydiving.
This is perhaps the slowest car I have ever driven. On the drive back to the airport, the accelerator was floored for practically the whole journey. The speed varied between 130 and 170 kmh depending on the incline. 90 kilos of Russian passenger riding shotgun and 70 kilos of luggage in the back probably didn't help:
DSC_1256 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
There was a nice 991 Carrera S at the hotel.
DSC_1260 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
And a modified 987.1 C on German plates was a regular at the DZ car park. Belonged to a skydiver.
DSC_1316 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1315 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
And some skydiving stuff:
Landed on the beach, cracked open a cider. Loving life.
DSC_1293 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Got my 400th jump in on the last day:
G0044370 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1336 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Eight days and 39 skydives. Amazingly, the weather held up for the entire trip. Look forward to next year.
Anyway, on my return, I came back to this:
DSC_1375 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
I understand it wasn't as bad as some places though.
Shortly before heading out to Portugal, I had issues with a tyre losing pressure. This was resealed. Upon checking the pressures after being away, they were all spot on, so that was a result.
Also started up first time with no issues. Did have an issue with the handbrake being seized on. Rolling it backwards and then forwards allowed it to free up. These cars don't like being sat about in the elements and not used.
Tucked away for winter
- still using it for the 70 mile round commute some days of the week.
DSC_1396 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Earlier today, I made some progress with one of the niggly non-mechanical issues - fubared ashtray. Mine never stayed closed.
27033923239_b016819897_b.jpgDSC_1401 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
A common issue is the latching mechanism breaks:
DSC_1401 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
A boxa.net kindly sent me over another ashtray that he had lying around that wasn't in the greatest cosmetic shape, but worked:
DSC_1409 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Interestingly, it seems the 'normal' finish isn't that durable compared to the ones with the painted centre console.
Below is a picture of the latching mechanism from the working one vs my old one:
DSC_1405 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Swapped over and job jobbed
DSC_1407 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1410 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
I'm off to India again on Christmas Eve for a few weeks. I'll still be using it once a week or so for the commute, but don't think there'll be any further news for the rest of the year. I really need to sort out the AC condensers when I get back and ideally, swap the carpets out.
Since 2015, the Algarve has been an annual ritual for me during Autumn. Sun, sea and skydiving.
This is perhaps the slowest car I have ever driven. On the drive back to the airport, the accelerator was floored for practically the whole journey. The speed varied between 130 and 170 kmh depending on the incline. 90 kilos of Russian passenger riding shotgun and 70 kilos of luggage in the back probably didn't help:
DSC_1256 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrThere was a nice 991 Carrera S at the hotel.
DSC_1260 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrAnd a modified 987.1 C on German plates was a regular at the DZ car park. Belonged to a skydiver.
DSC_1316 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_1315 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrAnd some skydiving stuff:
Landed on the beach, cracked open a cider. Loving life.
DSC_1293 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrGot my 400th jump in on the last day:
G0044370 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_1336 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrEight days and 39 skydives. Amazingly, the weather held up for the entire trip. Look forward to next year.
Anyway, on my return, I came back to this:
DSC_1375 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrI understand it wasn't as bad as some places though.
Shortly before heading out to Portugal, I had issues with a tyre losing pressure. This was resealed. Upon checking the pressures after being away, they were all spot on, so that was a result.
Also started up first time with no issues. Did have an issue with the handbrake being seized on. Rolling it backwards and then forwards allowed it to free up. These cars don't like being sat about in the elements and not used.
Tucked away for winter
- still using it for the 70 mile round commute some days of the week.DSC_1396 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrEarlier today, I made some progress with one of the niggly non-mechanical issues - fubared ashtray. Mine never stayed closed.
27033923239_b016819897_b.jpgDSC_1401 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
A common issue is the latching mechanism breaks:
DSC_1401 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrA boxa.net kindly sent me over another ashtray that he had lying around that wasn't in the greatest cosmetic shape, but worked:
DSC_1409 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrInterestingly, it seems the 'normal' finish isn't that durable compared to the ones with the painted centre console.
Below is a picture of the latching mechanism from the working one vs my old one:
DSC_1405 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrSwapped over and job jobbed
DSC_1407 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_1410 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrI'm off to India again on Christmas Eve for a few weeks. I'll still be using it once a week or so for the commute, but don't think there'll be any further news for the rest of the year. I really need to sort out the AC condensers when I get back and ideally, swap the carpets out.
Thanks Spitfires - they're nice cars and can be picked up for reasonable amounts. However, as this goes to show, they can often suffer from neglect. Boxa.net is a good resource, as is the Poverty Pork thread in the Porsche section. Buy on condition, not miles from an enthusiast and it'll be one of the best bang per buck cars you can drive.
Bullet-Proof_Biscuit said:
Following. Keep up the updates!
I'm shopping for a 3.2S at the moment. Budget: As close to £4k as I'm prepared to risk...
Thanks for the comments - I should have some updates after the weekend. I did try to send you an email, but you haven't allowed members to contact you on your profile.I'm shopping for a 3.2S at the moment. Budget: As close to £4k as I'm prepared to risk...
There's a higher mileage, but well looked after 3.2 for sale in Leicestershire for £4.4k that belongs to an enthusiast on boxa.net. You may need to sign up to view: http://www.boxa.net/forum/topic/76815-2000-w-arcti...
So, there's been a lack of updates for a while. I spent three weeks abroad over Christmas and new year. I knew the Polo would start up fine and squeezed both cars onto the drive before flying out, nose to nose, just so I could jump start the 986 if needed. That proved to be unnecessary as it fired to life on the first turn of the key when I returned.
Combined with the recent bad weather, I've barely done 1500 miles since November. I hope to remedy that soon.
Anyway, I was in London just last week for a friend's stag do, which was quite civilised all things considering. Found this beauty parked in Bayswater near my hotel:
DSC_0158 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Decided to take a closer look later:
DSC_0155 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Very well specced 986.1 3.2 S - litronics, 18" Sport Design wheels, hood upgraded to a glass screen version. Looked immaculate and very well cared for. Parked in a residents only bay, likely to be a daily driver. There's something I find charming about cars like these parked on the road and used as intended rather than locked up in a garage.
Anyway, fast forward to today. Being a four day bank holiday weekend, there was the typical good weather associated with that. The weather gods don't seem to like letting skydivers enjoy long weekends:
DSC_0203 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
I drove over to Rob's (a fellow member on boxa.net) to try and salvage something out of the weekend.
Twins:
DSC_0191 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Off with the front bumper - relatively straightforward if somewhat fiddly, being the first attempt:
DSC_0200 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0194 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Rob helping out (read: doing pretty much all of the work):
DSC_0197 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
I think the reason my air conditioning wasn't working is obvious. The other side was just as bad:
DSC_0195 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Years of rotting leaves and other debris cause the condensers to corrode and eventually fail. The markings on the existing condensers confirmed they were OE items, quite possibly the original condensers fitted to the car. All the crud was cleaned off. There was a little surface corrosion on the radiators which was again tidied up and protected with waxoyl.
Replacement pattern parts are readily available on eBay for less than three figures for a pair. New vs old:
DSC_0198 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
These were fitted with new OE seals:
DSC_0202 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0201 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Decided to also replace the drier with a Hella item using new OE seals, but didn't take any pics of this.
Ducts refitted:
DSC_0204 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Starting to look like a car again:
DSC_0205 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Done:
DSC_0213 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Before replacing the bumper, in a nod to our JDM yo! friends, I used some steel mesh from B&Q and some cable ties to prevent debris from clogging the condensers and radiators in the future. Zunsport make some grilles that bolt on, but these are only for pre-facelift cars. And they cost three figures. This cost less than £8. They're quite unobtrusive (even with the yellow cable ties - I used what was at hand. Like the A-Team ) and only noticeable close up:
DSC_0206 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
In this case, the saying 'just needs a regas...' should hold true.
I was intending to do the rear brakes and some other odd jobs too, but we ran out of time.
I'll post another update when those are tackled.
Edited for typos.
Combined with the recent bad weather, I've barely done 1500 miles since November. I hope to remedy that soon.
Anyway, I was in London just last week for a friend's stag do, which was quite civilised all things considering. Found this beauty parked in Bayswater near my hotel:
DSC_0158 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDecided to take a closer look later:
DSC_0155 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrVery well specced 986.1 3.2 S - litronics, 18" Sport Design wheels, hood upgraded to a glass screen version. Looked immaculate and very well cared for. Parked in a residents only bay, likely to be a daily driver. There's something I find charming about cars like these parked on the road and used as intended rather than locked up in a garage.
Anyway, fast forward to today. Being a four day bank holiday weekend, there was the typical good weather associated with that. The weather gods don't seem to like letting skydivers enjoy long weekends:
DSC_0203 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrI drove over to Rob's (a fellow member on boxa.net) to try and salvage something out of the weekend.
Twins:
DSC_0191 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrOff with the front bumper - relatively straightforward if somewhat fiddly, being the first attempt:
DSC_0200 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0194 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrRob helping out (read: doing pretty much all of the work):
DSC_0197 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrI think the reason my air conditioning wasn't working is obvious. The other side was just as bad:
DSC_0195 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrYears of rotting leaves and other debris cause the condensers to corrode and eventually fail. The markings on the existing condensers confirmed they were OE items, quite possibly the original condensers fitted to the car. All the crud was cleaned off. There was a little surface corrosion on the radiators which was again tidied up and protected with waxoyl.
Replacement pattern parts are readily available on eBay for less than three figures for a pair. New vs old:
DSC_0198 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrThese were fitted with new OE seals:
DSC_0202 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0201 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDecided to also replace the drier with a Hella item using new OE seals, but didn't take any pics of this.
Ducts refitted:
DSC_0204 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrStarting to look like a car again:
DSC_0205 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDone:
DSC_0213 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrBefore replacing the bumper, in a nod to our JDM yo! friends, I used some steel mesh from B&Q and some cable ties to prevent debris from clogging the condensers and radiators in the future. Zunsport make some grilles that bolt on, but these are only for pre-facelift cars. And they cost three figures. This cost less than £8. They're quite unobtrusive (even with the yellow cable ties - I used what was at hand. Like the A-Team
) and only noticeable close up:DSC_0206 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrIn this case, the saying 'just needs a regas...' should hold true.
I was intending to do the rear brakes and some other odd jobs too, but we ran out of time.
I'll post another update when those are tackled.
Edited for typos.
Edited by Rosewood Red on Monday 2nd April 13:57
Rosewood Red said:
In this case, the saying 'just needs a regas...' should hold true.
So yeah, I lied. 
DSC_0239 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrI am a patient man, but a little part of me wants to sell up. There's only so much one can put up with...
ATM said:
But then what would you replace it with. There are not many decent cars to choose from. Decide if you enjoy the car working then figure out if you can live with these occasional hiccups. Is this your only car or do you have another?
I have my trusty Polo as the main car. It's going to Cath next week for a slightly earlier than necessary service. The cracked A/C pipe will be attended to at the same time.I think I just need to wait for it to warm up and sun to come out. It'll be used most days on my 70 mile round trip to work when the weather is at least semi decent. I've not even done 2000 miles in it since December.
Thus far, including the purchase price in October 2016, I've ploughed over £9k into it. Perhaps I should have just saved all of that up and bought a lower mileage 986 for circa £7k that had all the problem areas attended to. The benefit of hindsight. Then again, Murphy's law would have come round and bit me in the ass. It feels like you can't win sometimes.
Once it's fixed and I start using it as a semi-daily driver, I'll re evaluate my longer term relationship with the car.
Well the car's back now. Both A/C pipes (£150 + VAT, compared to £140 + VAT from Design 911 for the single, dearer one!!) have been replaced along with O-rings etc. Along with a regas and a 12k service, just shy of £760 which is a bit of a blow.
But, the whole car's been checked - bar some corrosion on the inner face of the rear discs (have some waiting to go on) and being advised to do the brake fluid later this year, It's got a clean bill of health.
Hope to be using it most days now for my 70 mile round commute and see how it behaves. Today's a rather miserable day to be driving a convertible, but the weather is looking promising for the rest of the week.
Let's see if that bond between man and machine can be rekindled...
But, the whole car's been checked - bar some corrosion on the inner face of the rear discs (have some waiting to go on) and being advised to do the brake fluid later this year, It's got a clean bill of health.
Hope to be using it most days now for my 70 mile round commute and see how it behaves. Today's a rather miserable day to be driving a convertible, but the weather is looking promising for the rest of the week.
Let's see if that bond between man and machine can be rekindled...
So I last drove the car on Monday and the blower motor sounded in a bit of a state, as if it was fouling on something. I wondered if perhaps the motor itself was knackered.
I had some time to investigate further this evening.
I removed the pollen filter and tried to figure out how the flaps work. With the HVAC on off, there's a flap that isolates the blower motor from the outside
DSC_0317 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0315 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
The piece of plastic at an angle is the recirculating flap. The textured bit below this is the 'isolation flap' (I just invented that term).
If you turn the HVAC on, but lower the fan speed to zero bars, but not off, the blower motor doesn't spin, but the isolation flap opens up:
DSC_0318 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0319 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
You can now see the blower motor (not on the picture) - I noticed some debris in there and fished it out:
DSC_0322 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Some sort of foam insulation from somewhere - probably the HVAC system itself. These cars are starting to get on a bit.
No more noisy blower fan.
I had some time to investigate further this evening.
I removed the pollen filter and tried to figure out how the flaps work. With the HVAC on off, there's a flap that isolates the blower motor from the outside
DSC_0317 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0315 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrThe piece of plastic at an angle is the recirculating flap. The textured bit below this is the 'isolation flap' (I just invented that term).
If you turn the HVAC on, but lower the fan speed to zero bars, but not off, the blower motor doesn't spin, but the isolation flap opens up:
DSC_0318 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0319 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrYou can now see the blower motor (not on the picture) - I noticed some debris in there and fished it out:
DSC_0322 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrSome sort of foam insulation from somewhere - probably the HVAC system itself. These cars are starting to get on a bit.
No more noisy blower fan.
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