996 Exhaust rattle (PSE)
Thread Starter
Rennlist Member
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 22
Likes: 8
From: Atlanta
996 Exhaust rattle (PSE)
I have recently installed a used PSE system and have a rattle which, if possible, I would like to remedy. The car is a 1999 996 C2. The rattles are at low RPM (idle-2.200) and are somewhat intermittent. I have checked the install to ensure everything is tight but perhaps I am missing something. Worse yet, perhaps the system is bad - although I have to say the sound (above 2.200) is AMAZING when compared to the previous (non-rattling) stock system. Any thoughts or suggestions are certainly appreciated. Thank you.
Silberrosa
1999 996 C2 Silver/Boxster Red
1988 951S silberrosa / red plaid (gone but not forgotten)
Silberrosa
1999 996 C2 Silver/Boxster Red
1988 951S silberrosa / red plaid (gone but not forgotten)
Three Wheelin'
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 1,482
Likes: 4
From: Oakley, California
Hmmm...I hope you didn't buy a bad 'used' set. Can't think of anything other than taking them off and shaking them to see if the rattle is internal or something loose on the outside. It has to be the mufflers since you did not have the problem before. GL and keep us posted.
Advanced
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 85
Likes: 0
From: Markham, Ontario
i had a similar problem on my '03 c4s though my PSE had come with the car. I experienced a low speed rattle especially when making turns. The dealership traced the problem to rusting and loose clamps that hold the exhaust in place. We replaced all these clamps and the rattle is now gone. Another issue could be the components inside the cats are coming loose - you can test this by tapping the cats gently with a rubber mallet. (be gentle - don't hammer away at the cats)... if you hear things moving about inside, then you may need to replace the cats :-( Hopefully its just the clamps which cost far less to replace.
Drifting
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 3,199
Likes: 0
From: Houston, Texas
I had a similar problem on a Mk1 PSE. The actuator arms that open/close the valves are nortorious for loosening up and rattling. They are pressed together, not bolted. Spray some WD40 on it. The other thing is the litle heat shields get loose and will rattle or sound like a empty beer can.
Trending Topics
Burning Brakes
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 902
Likes: 3
My right side PSE developed a severe rattle when hot.
When off the car and cold, shaking it would not produce the rattle.
Cats do not just "go bad" and develop rattles. Poorly tuned engines can damage cats over time.
I have read of other PSE failures as well.
It sucks as these mufflers are far to expensive to fail in only 20k miles as did mine.
When off the car and cold, shaking it would not produce the rattle.
Cats do not just "go bad" and develop rattles. Poorly tuned engines can damage cats over time.
I have read of other PSE failures as well.
It sucks as these mufflers are far to expensive to fail in only 20k miles as did mine.
Rennlist Stories
The Best Porsche Posts for Porsche Enthusiasts
Six Genius Porsche-Themed Gifts That'll Make Any Dad or Grad Smile
Joe Kucinski
10 Used Porsches Are Selling for Way Too Cheap
Joe Kucinski
Tuner Is Converting Porsche 911s Into Shooting Brakes
Verdad Gallardo
This Coachbuilt Creation Is A Modern Take on the Legendary Porsche 917
Verdad Gallardo
Is This Convertible Cayenne A Steal, Or A Returnless Investment?
Verdad Gallardo
10 Best Non-Flat Six Porsches You Can Buy For Under $100K
Joe Kucinski
Porsche's Top 5 Most Questionable Naming Decisions
Verdad Gallardo
Pogea Racing's 964 Porsche 911 Reimagination Stands Out in a Crowded Field
Verdad Gallardo
6 Convertible Top MYTHS Most People Don't Understand!
Michael S. Palmer
Advanced
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 69
Likes: 14
Our 2004 C4S cab with PSE developed a very loud rattle at idle, although the rattle would go away after the exhaust system was fully warmed up after driving several miles. If I put my foot against the left exhaust tip, the rattle would stop, so I assumed it was something to do with the tip or something connected to the tip. But when I got under the car, I had a difficult time figuring out exactly where the noise was coming from. I started to tighten all the exhaust brackets, several of which were more loose than I would have expected. And when I got to the bracket that connects to the left exhaust tip, that did the trick. I did notice that this bracket had quite a bit more rust on it then the others. I am still getting a bit of a rattle if I purposely lug the engine, but at least the problem is more or less resolved, although I would not be shocked if it comes back.
