Speedgelb's 3.2 litre ray of sunshine - '01 986 Boxster S
Discussion
Long opening gambit. Make a cup of tea or coffee. Or maybe something stronger - it is Friday.
I used to have a very well specified Zenith Blue 2.7 that I spent the best part of 18 months getting up to scratch mechanically. New clutch and flywheel, all suspension arms, A/C condensers and pipes and a lot more. My previous thread is here
https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
Unfortunately, it met with a sad demise in the Peak District in May. On a positive note, I somehow escaped without even a scratch. The car was a Cat B write off. To say I was dejected would be an understatement. I'd only just recommissioned the A/C and put it through a minor service with my specialist a few weeks earlier. I was looking forward to a drive in the Scottish Borders in September, but now in two minds about what to do next.
A chap on boxa.net got in touch saying he had a car that he was thinking about selling. The car sounded good, but was still on the original clutch at just under 116k. It was also 250 miles away in Croydon and it didn't make sense to go all the way down there to just look at one car.
In the meantime, I was on a Training Programme run by a national team at NHS England. I currently Lead on Business Intelligence for elective care at an NHS Trust up North. I made an impression on the guys from NHS E on one of the training days and jokingly suggested they should offer me a job. Due to someone going on maternity leave, a secondment until the end of the financial year became available. In London. This was when I still had my 2.7, and whilst moving back to London for six months or so did sound like fun, I wasn't sure I could justify keeping the Boxster, so I didn't send off an application. Until it got written off, then I thought what the hell...
So, I applied for the job and got shortlisted for an interview. I contacted the chap on boxa.net and arranged a viewing and a test drive the day before the interview. You know, whilst I was there / just in case.
I got the train down from Preston. I spent the two and a bit hours of the journey in the quiet carriage on my laptop and with pen and paper doing my presentation for the next day. In all honesty, I wasn't really sure how to prepare for this role. The presentation they had asked for the interview was similar to one they had seen me do before and I was confident I'd be able to answer the questions they would ask me as part of the interview. But, I decided I would give it my best and at least try and prepare.
I arrived in Euston and then got the tube to Waterloo. Walked to my hotel, checked in, dropped my stuff and then walked back to Waterloo and then got a train to Croydon and met the seller. Not the best place to test drive a car, I should add, but I did manage a good 45 minutes or so. Initial impressions: Very heavy clutch and a rattle from the rear over uneven surfaces; possibly the rear diagonal arms. This was not the car for me. But I decided to take a picture of it on the day, as I always do after test drives:
DSC_0440 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
It was nearly 1900. Time to head back to Waterloo and do some prep for the day after. So naturally, I called a friend, met them at Leicester square at 1945 and then walked to Covent Garden where some beer and sushi was consumed:
2018-08-17_01-17-27 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
It was well after 2100 by the time we finished. I also insisted on getting a McFlurry. It was 2200 by the time I got back to my hotel and I went to bed.
So much for prep. Anyway, after a lie in, a full English and perhaps half an hour of actual prep, I walked to the venue, handily only a couple of blocks away from my hotel. I felt the interview went well, but you can never tell with these things. I got a call later in the day - she opened with 'I'll get straight to the point - you were a close second'. A deserved outcome considering my particular preparation regimen.
After another ten minutes on the phone, it transpired what she said was actually code for 'We have a different role in mind for you', but she needed to get the position established and then look at their recruitment options. I wouldn't know the outcome for a couple of weeks, so I waited. Patiently.
I did go and look at four other 986s, a mix of 2.7s and 3.2s but they all had their own issues. Not unexpected at the £6k mark.
Then I got an email saying the post had been established and was mine if my substantive employers would agree to a secondment. And 'oh, would you like to work in London or Leeds?'. I chose the latter. The same grade as the role I applied for, but this sounds more up my street - fun and challenging. .
So, I decided the Speed Yellow car is a good luck charm. I also decided if I didn't buy it, I'd regret it. Despite it needing a clutch and that rattle, it actually compared very favourably to many examples priced significantly higher. A somewhat cheeky offer of £4,250 was accepted.
I Christened her (Lucky) 'Thirteen' - after the character in House MD
A few pics from collection day:
DSC_0626 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0633 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Turned out there was a 'slight' electrical niggle, either the battery or alternator. She died completely a mile or so from the seller in a petrol station. Alarm blaring et al. But it somehow turned over again, on her obviously knackered battery.
She had been upgraded with a period Becker single DIN navigation unit...
DSC_0642 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
...which decided taking us over the river and through Kensington and Chelsea was the obvious route north to Leamington....
received_1859342290788896 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Dodgy electrics and an elderly clutch. I wasn't convinced she'd restart if stalled. London stop-start was fun.
Made it to Leamington fine and I met up with a fellow PH member with a 987.2C for dinner.
DSC_0635 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0638 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
She did crank over, weakly, after dinner and fired back to life. The remainder of the journey to Preston went without incident.
She also started fine the next morning, so taking the necessary precautions, I decided to drive her the 35 miles to work:
DSC_0645 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
I came back later to discover she had made a friend
DSC_0648 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
A new battery a couple of days later fixed the electrical niggles. The alternator appears to be fine. Whilst I was in there, I also cleaned up the battery tray and the front drain holes:
DSC_0671 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0672 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0700 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
She was looked at by my specialist a few days later...
DSC_0695 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
...and given a relatively clean bill of health:
DSC_0697 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
The only surprise was corroded front radiators. The rattle appears to be a worn rear droplink. I've ordered a pair of OEM droplinks and rads, which will be fitted at the end of the month.
I don't have any decent interior pics, but here's one, if you'll pardon the poor phone photo in low light:
DSC_0722 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Spec includes:
17" Sport Classic wheels
Sound pack
Extended black leather
Heated sports seats with yellow seatbelts
Speed Yellow centre console and roll bars.
Climate control that works - both condensers replaced last summer
Trip computer
Two working remote keys and the emergency key and bar the invoice for the condensers, every invoice and MOT from new, including the order form.
The original owner had it from new in 2001 until 2016 and 110k, sold it to the second owner who had it for a year and put another 5k or so on the clock and then the last owner, who had it for the best part of 18 months but barely put 1k miles on it. He's also got an RS2 replica amongst other vehicles and this just wasn't being used. All previous owners are on boxa.net and the car hasn't exchanged hands outside of the forum.
Original paint. She does have some stone chips and minor marks, but is great for the age and mileage. I don't think it warrants any paint as such and I do think it would be a shame, being the factory paint. Some magic from someone who knows how to use DA polisher and maybe some of the chips being touched in and then sanded back and polished is all that's needed.
DSC_0736 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
In just under three weeks, I've done as many miles as the previous owner did in 18 months. Mainly in the Yorkshire Dales with the boxa.net boys. Some pics:
DSC_0772 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0773 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0778 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0782 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0799 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0802 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_0803 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
I have the Scottish Borders run just under a month away and am starting my new role in Leeds in September. I'm moving to Brighouse in a couple of weeks, and have an independent Porsche specialist only a few minutes away. As mentioned, the side radiators and rear droplinks will be replaced at the end of the month, definitely before Scotland. I also plan on getting the alignment adjusted as it seems a little bit out - I have a hunch it's the rear toe settings. At least, that's what it feels like. I intend on replacing the clutch +/- flywheel and getting a major service done in the foreseeable. I'm not sure if this will be before the Borders Run, but if not, it still drives very well.
Congratulations if you managed to get this far. I'll try and keep this thread updated.
I'll end with this, taken on a friend's iPhone X:
IMG-20180806-WA0009 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
I used to have a very well specified Zenith Blue 2.7 that I spent the best part of 18 months getting up to scratch mechanically. New clutch and flywheel, all suspension arms, A/C condensers and pipes and a lot more. My previous thread is here
https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
Unfortunately, it met with a sad demise in the Peak District in May. On a positive note, I somehow escaped without even a scratch. The car was a Cat B write off. To say I was dejected would be an understatement. I'd only just recommissioned the A/C and put it through a minor service with my specialist a few weeks earlier. I was looking forward to a drive in the Scottish Borders in September, but now in two minds about what to do next.
A chap on boxa.net got in touch saying he had a car that he was thinking about selling. The car sounded good, but was still on the original clutch at just under 116k. It was also 250 miles away in Croydon and it didn't make sense to go all the way down there to just look at one car.
In the meantime, I was on a Training Programme run by a national team at NHS England. I currently Lead on Business Intelligence for elective care at an NHS Trust up North. I made an impression on the guys from NHS E on one of the training days and jokingly suggested they should offer me a job. Due to someone going on maternity leave, a secondment until the end of the financial year became available. In London. This was when I still had my 2.7, and whilst moving back to London for six months or so did sound like fun, I wasn't sure I could justify keeping the Boxster, so I didn't send off an application. Until it got written off, then I thought what the hell...
So, I applied for the job and got shortlisted for an interview. I contacted the chap on boxa.net and arranged a viewing and a test drive the day before the interview. You know, whilst I was there / just in case.
I got the train down from Preston. I spent the two and a bit hours of the journey in the quiet carriage on my laptop and with pen and paper doing my presentation for the next day. In all honesty, I wasn't really sure how to prepare for this role. The presentation they had asked for the interview was similar to one they had seen me do before and I was confident I'd be able to answer the questions they would ask me as part of the interview. But, I decided I would give it my best and at least try and prepare.
I arrived in Euston and then got the tube to Waterloo. Walked to my hotel, checked in, dropped my stuff and then walked back to Waterloo and then got a train to Croydon and met the seller. Not the best place to test drive a car, I should add, but I did manage a good 45 minutes or so. Initial impressions: Very heavy clutch and a rattle from the rear over uneven surfaces; possibly the rear diagonal arms. This was not the car for me. But I decided to take a picture of it on the day, as I always do after test drives:
DSC_0440 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrIt was nearly 1900. Time to head back to Waterloo and do some prep for the day after. So naturally, I called a friend, met them at Leicester square at 1945 and then walked to Covent Garden where some beer and sushi was consumed:
2018-08-17_01-17-27 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrIt was well after 2100 by the time we finished. I also insisted on getting a McFlurry. It was 2200 by the time I got back to my hotel and I went to bed.
So much for prep. Anyway, after a lie in, a full English and perhaps half an hour of actual prep, I walked to the venue, handily only a couple of blocks away from my hotel. I felt the interview went well, but you can never tell with these things. I got a call later in the day - she opened with 'I'll get straight to the point - you were a close second'. A deserved outcome considering my particular preparation regimen.
After another ten minutes on the phone, it transpired what she said was actually code for 'We have a different role in mind for you', but she needed to get the position established and then look at their recruitment options. I wouldn't know the outcome for a couple of weeks, so I waited. Patiently.
I did go and look at four other 986s, a mix of 2.7s and 3.2s but they all had their own issues. Not unexpected at the £6k mark.
Then I got an email saying the post had been established and was mine if my substantive employers would agree to a secondment. And 'oh, would you like to work in London or Leeds?'. I chose the latter. The same grade as the role I applied for, but this sounds more up my street - fun and challenging. .
So, I decided the Speed Yellow car is a good luck charm. I also decided if I didn't buy it, I'd regret it. Despite it needing a clutch and that rattle, it actually compared very favourably to many examples priced significantly higher. A somewhat cheeky offer of £4,250 was accepted.
I Christened her (Lucky) 'Thirteen' - after the character in House MD
A few pics from collection day:
DSC_0626 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0633 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrTurned out there was a 'slight' electrical niggle, either the battery or alternator. She died completely a mile or so from the seller in a petrol station. Alarm blaring et al. But it somehow turned over again, on her obviously knackered battery.
She had been upgraded with a period Becker single DIN navigation unit...
DSC_0642 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr...which decided taking us over the river and through Kensington and Chelsea was the obvious route north to Leamington....
received_1859342290788896 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDodgy electrics and an elderly clutch. I wasn't convinced she'd restart if stalled. London stop-start was fun.
Made it to Leamington fine and I met up with a fellow PH member with a 987.2C for dinner.
DSC_0635 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0638 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrShe did crank over, weakly, after dinner and fired back to life. The remainder of the journey to Preston went without incident.
She also started fine the next morning, so taking the necessary precautions, I decided to drive her the 35 miles to work:
DSC_0645 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrI came back later to discover she had made a friend
DSC_0648 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrA new battery a couple of days later fixed the electrical niggles. The alternator appears to be fine. Whilst I was in there, I also cleaned up the battery tray and the front drain holes:
DSC_0671 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0672 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0700 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrShe was looked at by my specialist a few days later...
DSC_0695 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr...and given a relatively clean bill of health:
DSC_0697 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrThe only surprise was corroded front radiators. The rattle appears to be a worn rear droplink. I've ordered a pair of OEM droplinks and rads, which will be fitted at the end of the month.
I don't have any decent interior pics, but here's one, if you'll pardon the poor phone photo in low light:
DSC_0722 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrSpec includes:
17" Sport Classic wheels
Sound pack
Extended black leather
Heated sports seats with yellow seatbelts
Speed Yellow centre console and roll bars.
Climate control that works - both condensers replaced last summer
Trip computer
Two working remote keys and the emergency key and bar the invoice for the condensers, every invoice and MOT from new, including the order form.
The original owner had it from new in 2001 until 2016 and 110k, sold it to the second owner who had it for a year and put another 5k or so on the clock and then the last owner, who had it for the best part of 18 months but barely put 1k miles on it. He's also got an RS2 replica amongst other vehicles and this just wasn't being used. All previous owners are on boxa.net and the car hasn't exchanged hands outside of the forum.
Original paint. She does have some stone chips and minor marks, but is great for the age and mileage. I don't think it warrants any paint as such and I do think it would be a shame, being the factory paint. Some magic from someone who knows how to use DA polisher and maybe some of the chips being touched in and then sanded back and polished is all that's needed.
DSC_0736 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrIn just under three weeks, I've done as many miles as the previous owner did in 18 months. Mainly in the Yorkshire Dales with the boxa.net boys. Some pics:
DSC_0772 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0773 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0778 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0782 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0799 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0802 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_0803 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrI have the Scottish Borders run just under a month away and am starting my new role in Leeds in September. I'm moving to Brighouse in a couple of weeks, and have an independent Porsche specialist only a few minutes away. As mentioned, the side radiators and rear droplinks will be replaced at the end of the month, definitely before Scotland. I also plan on getting the alignment adjusted as it seems a little bit out - I have a hunch it's the rear toe settings. At least, that's what it feels like. I intend on replacing the clutch +/- flywheel and getting a major service done in the foreseeable. I'm not sure if this will be before the Borders Run, but if not, it still drives very well.
Congratulations if you managed to get this far. I'll try and keep this thread updated.
I'll end with this, taken on a friend's iPhone X:
IMG-20180806-WA0009 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrEdited by Rosewood Red on Wednesday 19th June 16:56
Very nice!
One of my favourite colours; although I have seen some differing shades of SY over the years. Does not take well to paint, that's for sure.
The Becker nav is a fairly uncommon factory option, definitely a good thing. Coloured console and belts also not hugely common and really break up that interior. Revolution will also look after you, they're as good as they come.
I'm up the road from Brighouse (and ironically worked for a local specialist until last year) so I'll keep an eye out for you! Enjoy.
One of my favourite colours; although I have seen some differing shades of SY over the years. Does not take well to paint, that's for sure.
The Becker nav is a fairly uncommon factory option, definitely a good thing. Coloured console and belts also not hugely common and really break up that interior. Revolution will also look after you, they're as good as they come.
I'm up the road from Brighouse (and ironically worked for a local specialist until last year) so I'll keep an eye out for you! Enjoy.
Love a yellow 986, love any yellow porsche actually...
They are such good value at the moment for such a great package, hard to resist although running one is meant to be comparable cost wise to a 996.
Revolution are great, i’ve been far too many times alately though, i go to the birstall branch.
I work in morley so will keep an eye out for you
They are such good value at the moment for such a great package, hard to resist although running one is meant to be comparable cost wise to a 996.
Revolution are great, i’ve been far too many times alately though, i go to the birstall branch.
I work in morley so will keep an eye out for you
Jimmy No Hands and lewisf182, I'll be commuting to Leeds via train (I'll be living a few minutes walk from Brighouse station) so, I'm not sure how often you'll see the car. I'm not too familiar with the area, but do note that I'm within half a mile of supermarkets, bars, etc. You may see me on the M62 some evenings and weekends though.This will be in contrast to my present situation. For the last two years, I've been driving 70 miles a day Mon - Fri work. That and skydiving at the weekend, meant I'd rack up anywhere between 18k and 25k a year between my Polo and previous 986.
Lewis, I agree with your sentiments about running costs being comparable to a 996. My previous thread outlines my tale of woe, ploughing £6k into my previous car over 18 months. Perhaps I should have done more research beforehand, but on the flipside, it taught me what to look for second time round. Still, in a world of £10k 944 S2s, I think the humble 986 offers trememndous value, if you find a good one.
Do either of you have any recommendations for any good detailers in the region? I'd prefer an enthusiast who does the odd bit of work on the side as opposed to a firm.
Stu-C123 - if the opportunity arises, I would recommend giving it a go. I can't see these cars getting any cheaper. The Poeverty Pork thread in the Porsche General sub-forum has a wealth of info, as does boxa.net.
Chris944 - thanks for the kind words. The way the car was behaving led me to suspect the alternator and had me thinking 'what the hell have I bought?' in the early days. Thankfully, all seems to be well after swapping out the old battery. It had a good innings - it had been in the car since 2011!
Butter Face - I'd suspect being a 2008 car, it would be a 3.4? As much as I condone buying a Speed Yellow car, erring on the side of caution, I'd suggest possibly upping the budget and going for a 987.2 from late '09 onwards. Or, a 2.7 987.1. The gen 1 3.4 does have a disposition to bore-score. This of course may not happen, but something to consider.
Lewis, I agree with your sentiments about running costs being comparable to a 996. My previous thread outlines my tale of woe, ploughing £6k into my previous car over 18 months. Perhaps I should have done more research beforehand, but on the flipside, it taught me what to look for second time round. Still, in a world of £10k 944 S2s, I think the humble 986 offers trememndous value, if you find a good one.
Do either of you have any recommendations for any good detailers in the region? I'd prefer an enthusiast who does the odd bit of work on the side as opposed to a firm.
Stu-C123 - if the opportunity arises, I would recommend giving it a go. I can't see these cars getting any cheaper. The Poeverty Pork thread in the Porsche General sub-forum has a wealth of info, as does boxa.net.
Chris944 - thanks for the kind words. The way the car was behaving led me to suspect the alternator and had me thinking 'what the hell have I bought?' in the early days. Thankfully, all seems to be well after swapping out the old battery. It had a good innings - it had been in the car since 2011!
Butter Face - I'd suspect being a 2008 car, it would be a 3.4? As much as I condone buying a Speed Yellow car, erring on the side of caution, I'd suggest possibly upping the budget and going for a 987.2 from late '09 onwards. Or, a 2.7 987.1. The gen 1 3.4 does have a disposition to bore-score. This of course may not happen, but something to consider.
So this thread, much like the car (until February) has been neglected, so I thought I'd update it.
I'll start with some pics from the Borders Run last September taken by my passenger:
IMG-20180916-WA0005 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
IMG-20180916-WA0004 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
IMG-20180916-WA0003 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
IMG-20180916-WA0002 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Long story short - Scotland was fun, but I wasn't sure if I was gelling with the car. And there was a moment with a hidden dip where the car (well, everyone's car) got some air and grounded out with a bang. I was convinced something had broken. But I got the all clear from Cath when I took it to her for a quick once over the following week. Porsche paranoia and all that.
The below posts are written retrospectively, so may read funny...
I'll start with some pics from the Borders Run last September taken by my passenger:
IMG-20180916-WA0005 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrIMG-20180916-WA0004 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrIMG-20180916-WA0003 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrIMG-20180916-WA0002 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrLong story short - Scotland was fun, but I wasn't sure if I was gelling with the car. And there was a moment with a hidden dip where the car (well, everyone's car) got some air and grounded out with a bang. I was convinced something had broken. But I got the all clear from Cath when I took it to her for a quick once over the following week. Porsche paranoia and all that.
The below posts are written retrospectively, so may read funny...
14/02/19
So, things have been a little quiet. Been spending a lot of time in London, and travelling in general with work and have barely done 1000 miles since the Borders Run. Life feels rather hectic at the moment.
The poor girl has been sat on the drive feeling a little sorry for herself. Ended up working at my old Trust in Southport today. Decided to show her some love, as it's Valentine's Day. 100 odd miles done today. And modern cars are huge...
DSC_1397 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
So, things have been a little quiet. Been spending a lot of time in London, and travelling in general with work and have barely done 1000 miles since the Borders Run. Life feels rather hectic at the moment.
The poor girl has been sat on the drive feeling a little sorry for herself. Ended up working at my old Trust in Southport today. Decided to show her some love, as it's Valentine's Day. 100 odd miles done today. And modern cars are huge...
DSC_1397 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr16/02/19
Meanwhile, earlier today:
DSC_1410 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
It was an early start this morning. Before heading to Cath's, went to a Lotus specialist in Accrington for a pre-alignment check. Bar front top mounts and bump stops, arms are good to go. Ollie lives next door to one TIPEC NW's admins and preps all sorts of interesting machinery for racing.
DSC_1407 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Mechanics hard at work at 0830 on a Saturday...
DSC_1406 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
I then headed to Cath's, but no one was in when I got there, so went for a wander around the estate in search of the coffee shop - which was closed. Did spot some interesting machinery though.
DSC_1412 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1416 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1418 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1419 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1421 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1429 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1431 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Headed back to Cath's after Nathan returned.
DSC_1425 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1426 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Picked up some OE bump stops and dust covers for the front, had the rattly heatshield refitted and new RARB bushes fitted.
Then headed to Southport for lunch.
DSC_1439 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Followed by a drive along Coastal Road back home.
All in, another 100 miles added to the clock today.
Meanwhile, earlier today:
DSC_1410 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrIt was an early start this morning. Before heading to Cath's, went to a Lotus specialist in Accrington for a pre-alignment check. Bar front top mounts and bump stops, arms are good to go. Ollie lives next door to one TIPEC NW's admins and preps all sorts of interesting machinery for racing.
DSC_1407 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrMechanics hard at work at 0830 on a Saturday...
DSC_1406 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrI then headed to Cath's, but no one was in when I got there, so went for a wander around the estate in search of the coffee shop - which was closed. Did spot some interesting machinery though.
DSC_1412 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_1416 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_1418 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_1419 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_1421 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_1429 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_1431 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrHeaded back to Cath's after Nathan returned.
DSC_1425 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_1426 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrPicked up some OE bump stops and dust covers for the front, had the rattly heatshield refitted and new RARB bushes fitted.
Then headed to Southport for lunch.
DSC_1439 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrFollowed by a drive along Coastal Road back home.
All in, another 100 miles added to the clock today.
17/02/19
Having not really driven the car much, bar the fortnightly blast down a few junctions of the motorway and back via the local twisties in Pleasington (a pic below of a sunset drive on new year's day), it was lovely to actually use it this week. About 300 miles done since Thursday in a mix of commuting, picking up stuff, visiting workshops and a blast on the Strines this morning.
DSC_1173 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Getting rid of my flat in Yorkshire and moving back to Lancashire next week, so should be driving the car much more regularly.
Having not really driven the car much, bar the fortnightly blast down a few junctions of the motorway and back via the local twisties in Pleasington (a pic below of a sunset drive on new year's day), it was lovely to actually use it this week. About 300 miles done since Thursday in a mix of commuting, picking up stuff, visiting workshops and a blast on the Strines this morning.
DSC_1173 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrGetting rid of my flat in Yorkshire and moving back to Lancashire next week, so should be driving the car much more regularly.
21/03/19
I ended up waking up in Paris on Monday, London on Tuesday and Birmingham yesterday. The car on the other hand, was in Accrington with an assortment of overnight parts from Japan.
DSC_1583 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Thanks to a friend for the heads up on Sachs top mounts. I ordered these from a French supplier at £24 each. Turns out these were OE 997 top mounts with the part numbers ground off. The same top mounts that would set you back £83 a piece from OPC.
DSC_1556 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
The TRW rear diagonal arms also had the Porsche logo ground off:
DSC_1554 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Meanwhile in France, I spotted this 'Bentley', on British plates:
DSC_1644 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
A local ray of sunshine:
DSC_1653 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
I returned home yesterday evening and collected my own ray of sunshine from Ollie...
DSC_1716 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
I've only covered seventeen miles since picking her up. My initial impression? Tight. Very tight.
Really looking forward to the shakedown run in Cheddar Gorge this Saturday.
I ended up waking up in Paris on Monday, London on Tuesday and Birmingham yesterday. The car on the other hand, was in Accrington with an assortment of overnight parts from Japan.
DSC_1583 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrThanks to a friend for the heads up on Sachs top mounts. I ordered these from a French supplier at £24 each. Turns out these were OE 997 top mounts with the part numbers ground off. The same top mounts that would set you back £83 a piece from OPC.
DSC_1556 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrThe TRW rear diagonal arms also had the Porsche logo ground off:
DSC_1554 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrMeanwhile in France, I spotted this 'Bentley', on British plates:
DSC_1644 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrA local ray of sunshine:
DSC_1653 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrI returned home yesterday evening and collected my own ray of sunshine from Ollie...
DSC_1716 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrI've only covered seventeen miles since picking her up. My initial impression? Tight. Very tight.
Really looking forward to the shakedown run in Cheddar Gorge this Saturday.
Fantastic write up, and may I say it a stunning looking car.
My mate bought a Speed Yellow 996 C4s brand new in 2004 and I thought he was mad, but it was me that was mad for not appreciating what a perfect Porsche colour it is.
These look terrific value for money if you can find a good one, which you appear to have done
My mate bought a Speed Yellow 996 C4s brand new in 2004 and I thought he was mad, but it was me that was mad for not appreciating what a perfect Porsche colour it is.
These look terrific value for money if you can find a good one, which you appear to have done
Lovely car and great thread.
I’m not the worlds biggest Porker fan, but they’re growing on me
Good to see another fellow Prestonian on here & also someone who uses Ollie @ Phoenix. He’s bloody brilliant and really knows his stuff... He’s dabbled on all sorts of cars for me
If you need another recommendation for a decent Mechanic and someone who knows what they’re doing, I’d highly recommend Grinspeed in Leyland
I’m not the worlds biggest Porker fan, but they’re growing on me
Good to see another fellow Prestonian on here & also someone who uses Ollie @ Phoenix. He’s bloody brilliant and really knows his stuff... He’s dabbled on all sorts of cars for me
If you need another recommendation for a decent Mechanic and someone who knows what they’re doing, I’d highly recommend Grinspeed in Leyland
martin mrt said:
Fantastic write up, and may I say it a stunning looking car.
My mate bought a Speed Yellow 996 C4s brand new in 2004 and I thought he was mad, but it was me that was mad for not appreciating what a perfect Porsche colour it is.
These look terrific value for money if you can find a good one, which you appear to have done
Thanks Martin. Speed Yellow seems to be a polarising colour, although I love it. It needed some TLC (which is ongoing), mainly due to the age and mileage, but I factored this into the asking price. It's a good foundation however, much better than my old 2.7 as a starting point.My mate bought a Speed Yellow 996 C4s brand new in 2004 and I thought he was mad, but it was me that was mad for not appreciating what a perfect Porsche colour it is.
These look terrific value for money if you can find a good one, which you appear to have done
d_a_n1979 said:
Lovely car and great thread.
I’m not the worlds biggest Porker fan, but they’re growing on me
Good to see another fellow Prestonian on here & also someone who uses Ollie @ Phoenix. He’s bloody brilliant and really knows his stuff... He’s dabbled on all sorts of cars for me
If you need another recommendation for a decent Mechanic and someone who knows what they’re doing, I’d highly recommend Grinspeed in Leyland
Thanks Dan. I stumbled across Ollie completely by chance. I had visited my friend Richard, who lives down the road, a fellow Pork owner, to talk about the car. Ollie, who lives next door to him, returned from work as we were chatting and joined us. I asked Richard if he could recommend anyone local to look at the alignment, prompting Ollie to pipe up I’m not the worlds biggest Porker fan, but they’re growing on me
Good to see another fellow Prestonian on here & also someone who uses Ollie @ Phoenix. He’s bloody brilliant and really knows his stuff... He’s dabbled on all sorts of cars for me
If you need another recommendation for a decent Mechanic and someone who knows what they’re doing, I’d highly recommend Grinspeed in Leyland
He's set up the car very, very well.
25/03/19
So, my original secondment agreement was until the end of March. This had now been extended to September
A couple of friends I made on the Borders Run put me up in Cheltenham. A lovely part of the country, a place I loved when I was working / living there. I hit a milestone when I arrived:
DSC_1727 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Cheddar Gorge was a lot of fun:
_20190323_133658 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
_20190323_133535 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Followed by a lovely breakfast at Woodford Lodge:
DSC_1765 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1763 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
The car then headed to Bristol for a wedding reception and back up north the following day, so a few miles under its belt after the suspension work.
Ollie's set the car up very, very well. It felt pretty good before, but with some renewed suspension components and geo setup, the understeer has been practically eliminated and it feels very tight as a package. I had to hold back in the corners - the rear can be frisky in the damp with 'too much' throttle. This was also the case before the work and geo. I suspect the Continentals are a little past it despite still having decent tread. New rear boots will be added at the weekend in the form of PS4s.
On a final note, I'm impressed. New top mounts and bump stops aside, you wouldn't think the dampers and springs are 18 years old with 120k miles by looking at them...
DSC_1789 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
So, my original secondment agreement was until the end of March. This had now been extended to September
A couple of friends I made on the Borders Run put me up in Cheltenham. A lovely part of the country, a place I loved when I was working / living there. I hit a milestone when I arrived:
DSC_1727 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrCheddar Gorge was a lot of fun:
_20190323_133658 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr_20190323_133535 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrFollowed by a lovely breakfast at Woodford Lodge:
DSC_1765 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_1763 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrThe car then headed to Bristol for a wedding reception and back up north the following day, so a few miles under its belt after the suspension work.
Ollie's set the car up very, very well. It felt pretty good before, but with some renewed suspension components and geo setup, the understeer has been practically eliminated and it feels very tight as a package. I had to hold back in the corners - the rear can be frisky in the damp with 'too much' throttle. This was also the case before the work and geo. I suspect the Continentals are a little past it despite still having decent tread. New rear boots will be added at the weekend in the form of PS4s.
On a final note, I'm impressed. New top mounts and bump stops aside, you wouldn't think the dampers and springs are 18 years old with 120k miles by looking at them...
DSC_1789 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr02/04/19
So, the weekend didn't go quite as planned. I'd ordered some Michelin PS4s through Costco, who had an £30 off offer at the time, making a pair of rear boots just shy of £275 fitted.
I was originally going to go for Goodyear Eagle F1s, which worked out at a few pennies over £240. At £300 vs £240, I would have gone for the Goodyears, but for the negligible difference in outlay, I decided to try the French rubber, as they seem to be well received.
I ended up with some jobsworth employee who said he couldn't fit them as they weren't Porsche approved. He spouted some drivel saying 'It would be illegal, and invalidate your insurance'. I responded by informing the righteous gentleman that I'd written one off, sporting non-N-rated Uniroyals and had no issues with the insurance company. I gave him an ultimatum - either fit them, or refund me. He said he would 'do some research'.
Long story short, I ended up going for my original choice this morning via Protyre Preston. I've used their Southport branch on multiple occasions and they've always been great. With a voucher code, they also ended up being a few pennies cheaper than Cost
s. Week 38 2018, so pretty recent too.
Have only done 10 leisurely miles on them so far. Will break them in sensibly(ish) in the Dales and then up to Moffat on Thursday before putting them through their paces in the Highlands.
2019-04-02_01-59-47 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
So, the weekend didn't go quite as planned. I'd ordered some Michelin PS4s through Costco, who had an £30 off offer at the time, making a pair of rear boots just shy of £275 fitted.
I was originally going to go for Goodyear Eagle F1s, which worked out at a few pennies over £240. At £300 vs £240, I would have gone for the Goodyears, but for the negligible difference in outlay, I decided to try the French rubber, as they seem to be well received.
I ended up with some jobsworth employee who said he couldn't fit them as they weren't Porsche approved. He spouted some drivel saying 'It would be illegal, and invalidate your insurance'. I responded by informing the righteous gentleman that I'd written one off, sporting non-N-rated Uniroyals and had no issues with the insurance company. I gave him an ultimatum - either fit them, or refund me. He said he would 'do some research'.
Long story short, I ended up going for my original choice this morning via Protyre Preston. I've used their Southport branch on multiple occasions and they've always been great. With a voucher code, they also ended up being a few pennies cheaper than Cost
s. Week 38 2018, so pretty recent too.Have only done 10 leisurely miles on them so far. Will break them in sensibly(ish) in the Dales and then up to Moffat on Thursday before putting them through their paces in the Highlands.
2019-04-02_01-59-47 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr As some of you know, I've been a little on the fence with the car after the borders run back in September. A lot of it was to do with my head. My confidence levels still hadn't fully recovered following my crash in the blue car. A well known specialist in West Yorkshire, who shall never get my business again, also drew up a list of issues longer than you could shake a stick at.
Like I said, a lot of it was probably in my head. But, the car didn't feel quite as tight as the blue car, and following my Dukes of Hazard incident on the Borders run, where I was convinced I'd smashed my car to bits, energy levels were at an all time low.
A trip to Cath, my trusted specialist, the following week restored some order - the dip of doom hadn't caused any damage and a lot of the 'issues' identified by the other specialist were written off as nonsense.
I'm happy to say, I got my mojo back in the Highlands. The car has been transformed by Ollie. I suspect, most of it is down to the alignment, but a few refreshed suspension components will have undoubtedly helped. With the Goodyears, I can now feed the power in through the bends without the rear end getting frisky. On the Continentals, the back was stepping out in Cheddar, doing similar manoeuvres on roads that weren't as damp.
The car inspires a good deal of confidence, even in inclement weather. It feels as good as, if not tighter than the blue car.
Some pics from my four day weekend -
Dales and Tan Hill en route to Moffat with some of my good friends:
DSC_1845 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1852 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1860 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Parked up in Moffat:
2019-04-09_01-06-57 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
The next morning, Moffat to Quensferry for lunch:
DSC_1892 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1897 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1902 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1904 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
The view from Scott's at Port Edgar Marina, where we stopped for lunch:
DSC_1909 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Brander Lodge (highly recommended if you're near Oban - great selection of gin and whisky, restaurant quality food, very attentive and friendly staff), the base we used for the Highlands Run:
DSC_1920 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1927 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Commando Memorial:
DSC_1938 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1937 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1943 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1944 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
DSC_1947 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
House of Bruar for comfort break and lunch:
DSC_1950 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
And the cherry on top, after some hard driving on the Scottish B-roads at speed, she got another year's ticket today without a single advisory.
Like I said, a lot of it was probably in my head. But, the car didn't feel quite as tight as the blue car, and following my Dukes of Hazard incident on the Borders run, where I was convinced I'd smashed my car to bits, energy levels were at an all time low.
A trip to Cath, my trusted specialist, the following week restored some order - the dip of doom hadn't caused any damage and a lot of the 'issues' identified by the other specialist were written off as nonsense.
I'm happy to say, I got my mojo back in the Highlands. The car has been transformed by Ollie. I suspect, most of it is down to the alignment, but a few refreshed suspension components will have undoubtedly helped. With the Goodyears, I can now feed the power in through the bends without the rear end getting frisky. On the Continentals, the back was stepping out in Cheddar, doing similar manoeuvres on roads that weren't as damp.
The car inspires a good deal of confidence, even in inclement weather. It feels as good as, if not tighter than the blue car.
Some pics from my four day weekend -
Dales and Tan Hill en route to Moffat with some of my good friends:
DSC_1845 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_1852 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_1860 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrParked up in Moffat:
2019-04-09_01-06-57 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrThe next morning, Moffat to Quensferry for lunch:
DSC_1892 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_1897 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_1902 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_1904 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrThe view from Scott's at Port Edgar Marina, where we stopped for lunch:
DSC_1909 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrBrander Lodge (highly recommended if you're near Oban - great selection of gin and whisky, restaurant quality food, very attentive and friendly staff), the base we used for the Highlands Run:
DSC_1920 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_1927 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrCommando Memorial:
DSC_1938 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_1937 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_1943 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_1944 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrDSC_1947 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrHouse of Bruar for comfort break and lunch:
DSC_1950 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrAnd the cherry on top, after some hard driving on the Scottish B-roads at speed, she got another year's ticket today without a single advisory.
Edited by Rosewood Red on Saturday 27th April 20:38
14/04/19
The more observant of you on the Highlands run may have noticed my rear window was held together by duct tape. Whilst fitting the new rear boots last week, I noticed the original plastic screen had split. At over 18 years old, it had had a good run.
DSC_1819 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Two days before the drive up to Moffat, there wasn't much more I could do than bodge it with tape. However, a few messages were exchanged with Mark. After a quick chat over dinner last Thursday and a further exchange of messages, an OE 986.2 roof with glass window from a low mileage car was procured and collected by Mark.
I'd been slacking on the skydiving front and decided to blow of the cobwebs, so headed to Hibaldstow and got my first jump of 2019 out of the way, before heading to Mark's. Upon arrival I spotted this on his fridge, which made me smile: 
DSC_1979 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
We were soon joined by Luke:
DSC_1982 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
"Isn't something meant to be in there?"
DSC_1984 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Then Loz turned up:
DSC_1985 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
Roof fitted and the faded scuttle tray receiving the Polytrol treatment:
DSC_1990 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
All done:
DSC_1991 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr
This was followed by a curry and good times.
The cars brought us together. But it's about so much more than that...
The more observant of you on the Highlands run may have noticed my rear window was held together by duct tape. Whilst fitting the new rear boots last week, I noticed the original plastic screen had split. At over 18 years old, it had had a good run.
DSC_1819 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrTwo days before the drive up to Moffat, there wasn't much more I could do than bodge it with tape. However, a few messages were exchanged with Mark. After a quick chat over dinner last Thursday and a further exchange of messages, an OE 986.2 roof with glass window from a low mileage car was procured and collected by Mark.
I'd been slacking on the skydiving front and decided to blow of the cobwebs, so headed to Hibaldstow and got my first jump of 2019 out of the way, before heading to Mark's. Upon arrival I spotted this on his fridge, which made me smile: 
DSC_1979 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrWe were soon joined by Luke:
DSC_1982 by ash_ashy_mo, on Flickr"Isn't something meant to be in there?"
DSC_1984 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrThen Loz turned up:
DSC_1985 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrRoof fitted and the faded scuttle tray receiving the Polytrol treatment:
DSC_1990 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrAll done:
DSC_1991 by ash_ashy_mo, on FlickrThis was followed by a curry and good times.
The cars brought us together. But it's about so much more than that...
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