Looking for a 996 project car - The journey begins
 

Folks, I just thought I would introduce myself to this neck of the woods. I'm a long time Rennlist member, but haven't frequented the 996 section much. Only recently have I come to appreciate the platform after taking a ride in a friend's well setup '99 coupe. That was fun. :bowdown:

Anyway, as the title says, I figure I might as well start by putting out a request to the local community: I'm looking for an early 996 generation 911 (ideally a 1999/2000 dual row IMS car) that I can slowly turn into a track/street focused vehicle. Coupe and manual transmission are a requirement... color and options don't matter. Will consider (and perhaps even prefer) higher mileage examples.

I'm definitely not looking for a fully baked car, and this is meant to be more about the journey rather then the destination (yes, I know... this will cost more in the long run). In fact, I'm very much looking forward to the slippery slope down into bankruptcy. ;)

Let me know if you have leads... and I look forward to getting to know some of you better.

Miata eh? You'll fit right in here. Welcome and good luck with the search!

Thanks. Yeah... my foray into this automotive money pit, I mean hobby, started with a Miata.

Worked my way through a few different cars since then:

1994 Mazda Miata
2004 Subaru STI
2002 Honda S2000
1987 Porsche 911
1997 BMW M3
1995 Porsche 911
1993 Mazda Miata
2012 VW GTI
2001 Subaru Impreza RS
1997 Porsche 911
1991 Acura NSX

Clearly I have a problem. ;)

Your track list is longer, but similar to mine.

I went:

1994 Miata
1997 M3 (Sedan)
1997 M3 (Coupe)
1999 996 (this will be my last stop for a while)

What's your budget?

My 2 cents says start with the engine end of the process if you are going to track it. Apparently there's a ton of stuff needs to be done for the 996 engine before going track crazy. Once you get your head wrapped around that, then you can hunt down any number of roller chassis' where the engine has gone tango uniform. Get your engine cost sorted out first. I'm guessing here - but you ain't gonna like what you hear vis-a-vis the early 996 engine track plan.

You can have fun at open lapping days with a 996, but I have also read if you actually track it and have sticky tires on the car then other components come into play.

I only have suspension and exhaust upgrades and do show up to open lapping days. Strictly more to learn the behavior of my car and work on my driving skills.

There's some reasonably priced 996.1's on the sfbay craigslist. I know when I was looking for a car there were a few high mileage examples under 15k.

Heh. I say "this will be the last one, I promise" to the wife every time I get a new car... but then 1-2 years later the cycle repeats. I don't think there is a cure.

I've been starting to research what may need to be done to the engine, but since the plan is to evolve the care over a period of time (1-2 years), I'll probably start with the preventative stuff.. eg. IMS/RMS, if an oil baffle is required to prevent the engine grenading on high speed corners, etc.

Could use advice on any potential weak points.

$15k-ish seems like the current market starting point for an early high miler with a bit of patina.

This won't be a dedicated track car... so being able to drive to the local track, empty the tank a couple times, and then be able to drive back at the end of the day is definitely appealing.

Not being facetious, but all I can say is; The Engine.

If I were to give specific advice, I'd be out of my depth cuz I've never been inside one of the engines. But - there a people who have been inside them, and make a lot of recommendations. I had visions of tracking around, but a few threads about 'money shift repair' and 'grenaded my engine' from the track crowd had me re-thinking. Of course, Jake is pretty much the final word, and once you get on that trail, you'll know what I mean about 'start here first'.

Suggest you may get much better value (and road holding/cornering) by hunting down a 3.4l or other modified Boxster S.
Whatever you choose, the 9A1 engine is less flawed than the M96 according to the experts.

Also check the Los Angeles Craigslist...some manual coupes that would make great track projects are there.

Welcome on board, interesting that the naming of the mitia here in aus is MX-5 which IMO is a more appealing name to me! Anyway, there was someone on here just recently that was asking about a semi track/street car value his might be for sale. Unless you're looking to do everything yourself.

Yeah, good call. I've started local, but am slowly broadening my search. Have a lead on a couple within shooting distance of my price point.

Thanks to all who have PM'd leads... keep them coming!

Thanks for the feedback. I briefly considered a Boxster, but then quickly decided that I didn't want another convertible... and the back seats in the 911 were appealing so I could go on the occasional drive with my young daughter.

Besides, I already have a dedicated mid engine two seater sports car and miss the rear-engine dynamics of the 911...

Attachment 1354802

OK... check on step 1: I just picked up my new to me 2001 C2. :D

https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...cef0159e0e.jpg


I'm pretty stoked. The engine and mechanicals are in excellent shape and the car pulls harder than the other 911s I test drove over the last few weeks. The car got a thumbs up at the end of the PPI, though there's a slew of little things that I need to take care of (cracked rear tail light, broken rear mud flaps, etc.).

On to step 2: preventative maintenance and replace wear items.

Oh, and I almost forgot. This car is a unicorn... option code 652. :rockon:

Here's the money shot:

https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...78f6690ac7.jpg

Mmmm... suede.

https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...bb106f96de.jpg

Full factory option list:

C02 - Catalytic converter
288 - Headlamp washers
413 - 18" 993 Turbo-look wheels
424 - CD compartment
425 - Rear window wiper
437 - 8-way electrical seat, left
438 - 8-way electrical seat, right
446 - Wheel caps with colored Porsche crest
490 - Basic sound system
513 - 4-way electrically adjustable lumbar support, right seat
537 - Seat memory, left
586 - 4-way electrically adjustable lumbar support, left seat
601 - Litronic (xenon) headlamps
652 - Without sun-moon-roof
659 - Board computer
696 - CD-radio Becker Porsche CDR-220
935 - Leather rear seats
981 - Leather dashboard and door panels
983 - Leather front seats

Wow, that's the first I've seen and I've looked at 100 of them for sale.

and then be able to drive back at the end of the day is definitely appealing.

If it was me, id sell the motor for about 10k and do the LS swap and have money left over for other bits. Im sure ill get flamed for saying that, but that is what id do if I had your car and intentions.

The LS swap is what got me looking at the 996...Ain't cheap either!

Sweet! Love the solid top!

However, it doesn't really look like much of a project car. Maybe we should trade... :D

its not too bad considering that you can sell a good M96 10k. If you can turn your own wrenches its pretty reasonable.
http://www.renegadehybrids.com/

You didn't waste any time!

Congrats car looks great

Heh... I think I'm going to hold onto it a bit. There's much that needs to be done to get the car to where I want it.

The first list of items to sort:

1. The shocks are worn... on the hunt for coilovers. PSS10s, KW V3, or GT3 coilovers. If folks have recommendations or a set sitting in their garage, let me know. ;)

2. Suspension bushing all around front and back... currently researching what would be best.

3. Full fluid change: transmission, oil, brakes. Will likely replace the oil pan with a X51 of FVD baffled pan (assuming I can source one).

Thanks. I was surprised by how quickly things came together but, as others have noted, California is a haven for these cars.

It's been a busy week with work, so progress has been slow, but I did manage to get a set of Michelin Pilot Super Sports installed on the factory 18s (stock sizes). I'm always amazed by how phenomenal a tire this is... in both the wet and dry.

The new tires were a *huge* improvement over the old ones that came with car. I actually now have confidence to drive the card harder and had a blast on the mountain roads while heading back home this evening.

One of these days I'll post a detailed 993 vs. 996 comparison. Spoiler alert: overall, I'm very impressed with this car so far. :)

Not unexpectedly, the slide down the slippery slope has begun.

Ordered the following today:
* New Belts
* FVD Motorsport Oil Pan with Baffle
* Magnetic oil drain plug
* New coils/Plugs
* Air filter
* Pollen Filter
* Water Pump
* Tarret Monoball Camber Plates - Front
* Replacement Fuel tank vent valve

I also have a GT3 console delete on route (thanks vandersmith!) for a bit of extra legroom, and plan on taking the car in for a complete fluid change (oil/brake/transmission) when the above parts arrive.

Love the car, especially the sunroof delete! Your first round of mods are spot on. Can't wait to follow your progress. I have a lot of extra suspension pieces laying around, including a set of Moton Clubsports I'll PM you about.

Sometimes i regret not getting my 996 without sunroof , looks so slick without it inside and out !

Thanks Slakker. I'm slowly building up the complete list of staged improvements. it's really hard to not go overboard and just drop $10k on upgrades. Not sure how folks like you and Vandersmith manage to maintain the discipline to research thoroughly before buying. :bowdown:

Here's a glimpse into the next set of expenses:

Stage 1.5:
Coilovers - GT3 vs. Ohlins vs. KW V3?
Tarett Endlinks - Front/Rear
Monoball Camber Plates - Rear

Stage 2:
Clutch+Flywheel (Light weight?)
IMSB - dual row LN solution
RMS
Short shifter (997/GT3/other?)
Upgraded AOS
Engine mounts
New rotors/Brake pads
Suspension bushing refresh (Powerflex?)

Thanks! I agree it looks great, but the additional headroom clearance was the key selling factor for me. It feels like there is easily 1.5-2 additional inches..

Very nice. I Like your upgrade list, very methodical and purposeful.

How is the condition of the tires? I would put on your favorite set if those tires are old even if they appear to have great tread.

A fresh set of tires and alignment often does wonders to a new to you car. But I could see how you may want to way for all the suspension components to be put in first.

Thanks.

That was the first mod. I now have a fresh set of Michelin PSS on the car... love them

Yes, that's the plan. Need to research appropriate alignment settings to use for a dual street/track car.

I have a C4, and wanted less aggressive street alignments.

I opted for 0 toe, -1 camber front, -1.5 camber rear .08 caster (but I really don't believe caster makes a huge difference in the car as the wheel base is short enough)

For more aggressive track use, I would for sure opt for much more negative camber at the expense of tire wear. I am definitely no expert, but I did go back and forth with 3 different alignments til I felt it was 'just right' Right for me is if I accelerate out of a corner, and I can feel the rear wheel bite the ground with neutral tendencies, and good rear tire feedback. I know many prefer the exaggerated oversteer feel, but I don't think i'm quite ready for that yet.

Ah, look what arrived today.

Thank you Mr. Vandersmith (the Porsche tape was a nice touch). :)

https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...529f6f35c0.jpg

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...5fd1603872.jpg

Excellent, looks like I now have a weekend project...

I didn't think the PSSs could be found in sizes that fit the stock 18" rims, but apparently they're working for you. What sizes did you get?

Front: 225/40/18 (7.5" rim)
Rear: 265/35/18

https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...389f58b855.png

I briefly considered 285 for the rear and then decided to keep the original size for now.

ahh, hrm. My factory sizes are different, maybe a 996.2 thing? I have the same size fronts, but 285/30R18s in the rear, which seems to be exclusively PS2 territory.

One other surprise today:

So, the remote lock/unlock function on the primary key fob I've been using hasn't been working (the LED doesn't even light), so I've been manually unlocking the doors on the car.

Reading through the various threads on key fob issues and likely problems with the PCB, I feared the worst and ordered a new key+fob from the local Porsche dealership. But then, on a whim I ducked into the local Target and bought a replacement battery. ~$3 later I now have a working Fob. :cool:

I'm still going to get the extra one from the dealership and then keep this a one as a spare.

Yup, I believe that was true for the 996.2.

LOL, I just realized my "sun roof" is a hard top and not glass... I can not see out of it. I can only open it up.

Are all the Porsche sunroofs that way? hard top essentially, not glass to see through??

Mines like that too, from what I've seen all the 996s are like that.

Metal sunroof panel since 1965. Lighter than glass, too.

As some of you may have noted from one of my previous posts, my 996 came with a very unwanted additional accessory... an aftermarket faux wood vinyl trim.

This is one of the primary reasons for not sharing interior shots... I was just far too embarrassed. :p

I mean, look at it. Ugh.

https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...dd1c9404e1.jpg

So, naturally, I needed to remove it ASAP... and spent the better part of this afternoon slowly but surely pealing off the scourge.

Items needed:

1. A Hair drier + extension cord to heat up the adhesive prior to removal
2. A bottle of Goo Gone (or something similar) to remove any remaining residue
3. Clean cloths to apply the goo gone and wipe any residue clean
4. Lots and lots of patience...

The general steps I followed:

1. Apply heat via hair drier

https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...1ef9701103.jpg

2. Slowly peel back the trim using my hands (and gently with my nails when required).

https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...9619e533bf.jpg

https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...38aca049d6.jpg

3. Wipe the exposed surface down with a tiny bit of goo-gone. I was careful not to use too much for fear of damaging the underlying plastic or leather.

4. Use a clean dry cloth to wipe off any of the goo-gone and adhesive residue

It took plenty of patience, but I was finally able to work my way through all the trim pieces.

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...fb54b0b5e1.jpg

Bottom dash complete:

https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...ba20527146.jpg

All done!

https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...8a95cea245.jpg

https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...3fa14bdd98.jpg

It looks so much better! And the good news is that the leather and plastic underneath is in good shape. I was obviously concerned that the trim had been used to mask some damage, but thankfully that was not the case. I guess the PO actually liked the marble look. :banghead:

The moral of this story? Do not buy and apply the cheap eBay vinyl crap to your car. The next owner will not thank you for doing it!

The offending material.

https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...d253dc15d9.jpg

Nicely done! That stuff looked horrible. Maybe you should send it back to the PO :)

Thanks for sharing this. I am looking at a car that has the carbon fiber trim that may need to be removed.
Though I have not seen it in person yet...

Ill take any CF bits you don't want :burnout:

Trust me, if it's the stick-on trim I had in my car... you really don't want it.

Here's a quick summary of where things stand on the slippery slope of maintenance/upgrades.

Installed
Michelin PSS Tires

Received but not yet installed
GT3 Console Delete - needed to order a trim piece before I can relocate the HVAC controls

Ordered
Belts
FVD Motorsport Oil Pan with Baffle
Magnetic oil drain plug
New coils + NGK Spark Plugs
Air filter
Pollen Filter
Water Pump
Tarett Monoball Camber Plates - Front
OEM Fuel tank valve
Wevo semi solid engine mounts *new*
AC/HVAC control trim *new*

Stage 1.5
Coilovers - GT3 vs. Ohlins vs. KW V3?
Tarett Endlinks - Front/Rear
Monoball Camber Plates - Rear

Stage 2
Clutch+Flywheel (Light weight?)
IMSB - dual row LN solution
RMS
Short shifter (997/GT3/other?)
Upgraded AOS
New rotors/Brake pads
Suspension bushing refresh (Powerflex?)

I planed on spending this afternoon installing the GT3 console delete, but realized that I needed a new trim piece before I can relocate the climate controls to the top part of the dash (will be removing the cup holders).

So, instead, I decided to do the infamous radiator/AC condenser cleaning. Since I don't really have any reference point with a water cooled 911, I can't really tell if my car is running hot, but I do see the coolant temp occasionally cross 100 deg. Celsius... so I figured it couldn't hurt to make sure the radiators were clear.

Boy, was I surprised by what I found. I don't think this has ever been done before on my car. :eek:

I followed the usual DIY instructions for removing the front bumper.

https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...31fae63c96.jpg

Once the ducting was removed, a bunch of debris fell out and it was clear that there was even more jammed between the radiator and AC condenser.

https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...bfcb215d8e.jpg

https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...155f402132.jpg

Yup, I was right.

https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...96d53f2f42.jpg

https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...a3a6c65812.jpg

I got a vacuum into there and removed as much of the debris as possible.

Looking much better.

https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...a5419a3524.jpg

https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...28b0f36ed7.jpg

Getting ready to put everything back together.

https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...d308580f90.jpg

And all done... whew.

https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...c94304c4de.jpg

All in all, it was about 3 hours of work with lots of breaks in between.

I'm glad I did i, and am looking forward to seeing if there is any measurable improvement to the coolent temp when I drive the car tomorrow.

Nice work. It's crazy how dirty they get.

For even cooler temps, check out Water Wetter. Believe it or not, the stuff actually works as advertised.

Thanks, I'll have to check that out.

Also, I owe you a PayPal payment... will be sending that out shortly. :cool:

Nice to see you found a suitable C2. What a drastic interior improvement to your interior, well done. I don't use my sunroof often(except to hear the FisterD exhaust) so I'd prefer a sunroof delete option like yours. Am interested in following your conversion path from street to track with your 996, looks like another interesting project, keep the pics coming.

I was wondering about that. How much do you add?

Water wetter or something like it is sometimes required for motorcycle trackdays because it's less slick than coolant.

OP, you may want to check you drain plugs before you drive it in heavy rain. I'd also suggest you try to keep the interior dry as much as possible, a lot of electronics on the floor under the seats.

Careful with Watter Wetter. Not sure where in the SF Bay Area you live, but i'm next to Los Gatos, and we've had several below freezing overnights this season already.

On my race bikes, we can only use watter wetter or the like, and I remember the hassle one year of draining the coolant because the track we were at had hit freezing overnight temps.

This is of course all moot if your car lives in a heated garage.

One bottle will do the trick.

They're GOLD...

You inspired me! :D

I'm amazed at all the crud in there.


https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...0c602afd24.jpg

Great, thanks.

Great work Chris. :cool:

We should get together at some point for a drive/meet up. Any other Bay Area 996 owners up for it?

Another 996 story:

The wife had issues with the Land Rover and ended up getting stranded in Santa Cruz, so I drove over in the Porsche to help her out. For the drive back, she took the 996 while I crawled back in the LR desperate to get home without it dying on HWY 17 (no shoulder for most of it). She promised to stay behind me the whole way in case I needed to stop... but that lasted around 5 minutes before she shot past me and disappeared.

When I finally made it home, I asked her what the hell happened to her promise to stay with me. Her response was golden:

"The Porsche was crying to be driven faster"

I couldn't argue with her. She's definitely a keeper. :rockon:

Good for you guys having a LR and 996. Every weekend it seems like I tinker with the 996 and my colleagues ask if it's worth it. Sometimes it takes me a while to answer because it almost seems like a rhetorical question.

I don't know if you have or plan to have kids, here's something I enjoyed reading.

http://jalopnik.com/automotive-suffe...ids-1787059112

I'm in the Bay Area as well.

I'm lucky that my wife is also a car enthusiast. When we had our daughter she OK'd the family car (M5)

She also OK'd the Porsche, but that's our third car. Her every day driver is a 400hp SUV, she had to get the bigger motor :)

Thanks, the LR is really the only "must have" vehicle in our fleet since we live in pretty mountainous terrain. Just today, the bottom of the driveway was flooded due to the recent storm... and the Rover was in the shop. :banghead:

https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...95fee1b362.jpg

So in order to get my Fiat 500e DD through the "lake" without electrocuting myself, I had to pull out the old rake to clear the clogged drain.

https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...0bced87543.jpg

Finally... whirlpools!

https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...f525a6bc1e.jpg

Just another day in the mountains. :p


I have a 6 year old daughter. She absolutely *loves* the Porsche and practically begs me to take it every morning when dropping her off at school. In fact, I had the whole family in the car this last weekend and it was great to cruise around in relative comfort.

For this reason, maintaining street drivability is very high on my priority list as I mod the car. It's going to be a delicate balance...

Heh, very nice... thanks for the link.

A E39 M5 is on the bucket list. In fact, I almost bought one over the 996. I may still get one when it's time to replace the current DD.

Update:

Maintenance
Clean out front radiators (done)
Unclog drain holes (pending)
Oil/brake/transmission fluid (pending)

Parts Installed
Michelin PSS Tires

Parts received but not yet installed
GT3 Console Delete - needed to order a trim piece before I can relocate the HVAC controls
Tarett Monoball Camber Plates - Front
OEM Fuel tank valve
NGK Spark Plugs & coils

Parts ordered
Belts
FVD Motorsport Oil Pan with Baffle
Magnetic oil drain plug
Air filter
Pollen Filter
Water Pump
Wevo semi solid engine mounts
AC/HVAC control trim
Adjustable Endlinks - Front/Rear *new* (thanks Slakker!)

Stage 1.5
Coilovers - GT3 vs. Ohlins vs. KW V3?
Monoball Camber Plates - Rear

Stage 2
Clutch+Flywheel (Light weight?)
IMSB - dual row LN solution
RMS
Short shifter (997/GT3/other?)
Upgraded AOS
New rotors/Brake pads
Suspension bushing refresh (Powerflex?)

Unboxed the parts that arrived today. Shiny new goodness. ;)

https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...b24d7525d5.jpg

Coilover for 996
 

Hello,

I happen to have a set of Intrax 1k2 coilovers for a 996. Much better than KW or PSS10.

Front and rear with monoball mounts. Fully adjustable in height and preload, damping and rebound with one knob, therefore staightforward to setup when compared to more sophisticated 3-ways. You can check on their website http://en.intraxracing.nl/producten/1k2/ but mine do not have the separate bottle (easier to fit in a "civilized" car).

You'd have to check if shipping is affordable since I'm across the pond.

PM me if interested.

Best, Stephen

PS: slippery slope or not, the 996 is a very interesting platform.

It's funny that they are from the Netherlands because when I read this I thought "what is this guy smoking?"

Heh, I had the same reaction.

I think I'll stick to known local solutions. Probably useful for future maintenance, warrantee work and rebuilds, etc.

One last maintenance item before the big ticket items start: I cleaned up the drain holes in the Frunk.

My weapons of choice.

https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...fa7a9c73d4.jpg

Opening her up (side note: the battery looks pretty new).

https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...1c6c8ea5a2.jpg

As expected the the four drain holes were clogged up with debris.

https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...6e51caac31.jpg

https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...41714b523a.jpg

A couple shots after cleanup.

https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...44ee5633bd.jpg

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...b609623c95.jpg

Accumulated crap extracted from the drain holes.

https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...0d83de5252.jpg

All done.

https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...662c1ce2b3.jpg


Nasty work in tight quarters, but at least I didn't need to do the sunroof rail drain holes. :thumbup:

If you live where I think you live, you have no pity from me...small price to pay for paradise. =P

I don't really remember, but I thought you could just pull out those rubber grommets and stick your finger through it?

I'm guessing you don't have the rear drains because of the sunroof delete.

Maybe... I just heard of two more roads that got washed out in the storm. :banghead:

I tried pulling on one, and it didn't come out very easily... so I took the old-skool route and just pulled out the debris.

You are correct. :cool:

A bunch more parts arrived today, but I need to travel for about a week, so I dropped the car + parts off at my local indy to keep things moving forward.

Maintenance
Clean out front radiators (done)
Unclog drain holes (done)
Oil/brake/transmission fluid (pending)
Blackstone oil analysis (pending)

Parts Installed
Michelin PSS Tires

Parts received but not yet installed
GT3 Console Delete - needed to order a trim piece before I can relocate the HVAC controls
Tarett Monoball Camber Plates - Front
OEM Fuel tank valve
NGK Spark Plugs & coils
Belts
FVD Motorsport Oil Pan with Baffle
Magnetic oil drain plug
Air filter
Pollen Filter
Water Pump

Parts ordered
Wevo semi solid engine mounts
AC/HVAC control trim
Adjustable Endlinks - Front/Rear *new* (thanks Slakker!)

Stage 1.5
Coilovers - GT3 vs. Ohlins vs. KW V3?
Monoball Camber Plates - Rear

Stage 2
Clutch+Flywheel (Light weight?)
IMSB - dual row LN solution
RMS
Short shifter (997/GT3/other?)
Upgraded AOS
New rotors/Brake pads
Suspension bushing refresh (Powerflex?)

Great job. I am just finishing my 997 project. I think 996s are really coming into their own now.

While I've been traveling, the car as been in the very capable hands of Trackspec Autosports, and they were kind enough to send out pictures as progress was made.

In addition to an oil change and sending a sample of the current oil to Blackstone for analysis, the new FVD oil pan went in today.

https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...5dd894ca5e.jpg

Also, I decided that a suitable starting point for a combination street/track car was a set of GT3 coilovers, so picked up a set with ~10k miles from a fellow Rennlister. :cool:

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...2e75b003ec.jpg

Some updates:

Wevo engine mounts installed.

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...34c79e72e0.jpg

New serpentine belt:

https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...acf55491d9.jpg

New Air filter vs. old:

https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...d92ad23c6d.jpg

New coils and plugs vs. old:

https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...b8ac5915c0.jpg

I've also decided to get the remaining maintenance items taken care of while the car is in the shop:

1. Upgraded dual row LN IMSB retrofit
2. EPS Clutch kit
3. New dual mass flywheel (decided against the LWFW)
4. New RMS
5. New AOS
6. New chain tensioners

Parts are on order...

Looks like you got the updated 997 coils that come with longer bolts because of the thicker coil heads. You'll need to get some spacers for those bolts so you can reinstall your heat shields. The heat shields won't fit without them, they will hit the coils head.

This is assuming you have heat shields to begin with.

Thanks for the tip. Will keep that in mind when we put everything back together.

The transmission is down and the old clutch and FW are out. They were definitely due for replacement.

https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...b8073a369e.jpg

New parts should arrive early next week.

Needed a set of sway bar mounts for the GT3 coilovers, so I ordered a set of these:

https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...ac5e89c1b5.jpg

A quick review on where things stand on the maintenance/mod list.

Maintenance
Clean out front radiators (done)
Unclog drain holes (done)
Oil/brake/transmission fluid (done)
Blackstone oil analysis (sample sent - pending report)
Alignment (pending new suspension install)

Parts Installed
Michelin PSS Tires
NGK Spark Plugs & coils
Belts
FVD Motorsport Oil Pan with Baffle
Magnetic oil drain plug
Air filter
Pollen Filter
Water Pump
Wevo semi solid engine mounts

Parts received but not yet installed
GT3 Console Delete
Tarett Monoball Camber Plates - Front
OEM Fuel tank valve
AC/HVAC control trim
GT3 coilovers
Adjustable Endlinks - Front/Rear *new* (thanks Slakker!)

Parts ordered
Clutch+Flywheel
IMSB - dual row LN solution
New RMS
New AOS
Tarett sway bar mounts
New chain tensioners

"Stage 2" List
GT3 swayers (looking to source a set - please PM me if you have a lead)
Monoball Camber Plates - Rear
Short shifter (997/GT3/other?)
New rotors/Brake pads
Suspension bushing refresh (Powerflex?)
Fister (or equivalent) exhaust mod

PM sent. I have a new set of these I don't need and will give a good discount on.

Bah... should have asked first.

It's too late, they are already on route. :(

Don't suppose you have a set of GT3 (or equivalent) sway bars?

I have a front GT3 bar. :)

Will need a matching set F/R. Let me see if I can source a rear one.

Auto Atlanta is cheapest by far for GT3 rear sway. Part# 996.333.701.90 - $363. You will need two bushings as well.

Got the Blackstone report back. So far so good.

https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...fe79f4d099.jpg

Any reason you went with NGK plugs and coils over Behr/Bosch?

No specific reason other than convenience when I was ordering them and recommendations by others on this forum.

The GT3 Coilovers are in, just need to mount the new Tarett rear drop links.

You can see the Tarett front monoball camber plates in this picture:

https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...0b0bbf9558.jpg

For the rear, in addition to the longer rear drop links, you can see the new tarett drop link brackets that were installed as well.

https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...24e60dadf0.jpg

Almost done... just need to replace the transmission fluid and everything can be buttoned back together. I'm hoping that the car will be back in a drivable state before the end of the week. :thumbup:

https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...ef0424562b.jpg

Updated maintenance/mod list:

Maintenance
Clean out front radiators (done)
Unclog drain holes (done)
Coolant/Oil/brake fluids (done)
Blackstone oil analysis (done - clean report)
Current IMSB pulled and inspected (done - OEM dual row in good condition)
Transmission fluid (pending)
Alignment (pending new suspension install)

Parts Installed
Michelin PSS Tires
NGK Spark Plugs & new coils
New Serpentine Belt
FVD Motorsport Oil Pan with upgraded baffle
Magnetic oil drain plug
New Air filter
New Pollen Filter
New Water Pump
New Dual-Mass Flywheel
EPS Clutch
Wevo semi solid engine mounts
Low temp thermostat
GT3 coilovers
Tarett Monoball Camber Plates - Front
Adjustable Endlinks - Front
Tarett sway bar mounts
IMSB - dual row LN retrofit
OEM Fuel tank valve
New AOS
New RMS
New chain tensioners

Parts received but not yet installed
Tarett Adjustable Endlinks - Rear
GT3 Console Delete
AC/HVAC control trim to relocate climate unit to dash

Parts ordered
Clear side markers (down with orange!)

"Stage 2" List
GT3 swayers (looking to source a set - please PM me if you have a lead)
Monoball Camber Plates - Rear
Shifter upgrade (Ben’s/997/GT3/other?)
New rotors/Brake pads
Suspension bushing refresh (Powerflex?)
Fister (or equivalent) exhaust mod

The 996 is finally on the road again, but I noticed a slight coolant leak from the hose circled below (right side of the engine, picture taken from the bottom looking up), so the car is back at the shop to get this diagnosed and rectified.

https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...cc6cbf152f.jpg

Any thoughts on what could have caused this? There is a spring clamp around that hose, so this is not a case of it not being properly tightened when everything was put back together... strange.

Nice progress. It wouldn't surprise me if the leak was actually the coolant tank.

Oops!

I wondered that as well, but I could find no evidence of a leak anywhere except right where the hose joined the pipe.

Anyway, mystery solved. The shop confirmed that they did remove the hose while working on the car. They re-clamped the hose and so far she's been dry as a whistle after many spirited drives. :thumbup:

No kidding... but the shop has been excellent to work with and have been amazing through this whole process. They even agreed to meet me to take a look at the issue over the weekend. :cheers:

:thumbsup: very cool.

I think that's the same hose I just recently replaced. I think it was just a case of being old. The hose was quite soft and had bubbled out a little around the clamp - which was a worm/screw type. Very simple fix (remove airbox) - make sure you have a 5 gal bucket handy. It might help to jack up the rear end - I lost about 1.5 -2 gal with the back flat on the ground. The hose was around $30...

I've briefly contemplated the idea of replacing all the hoses for good measure, but the ones I can see appear to be in pretty decent shape. Will likely add this to the list for stage 2 or 3...

Been busy enjoying driving the car over the last few days... everything feels tighter and more responsive to inputs. The GT3 suspension is firm without being harsh. Loving it so far!

Also, I'm not sure if it was the transmission fluid or motor mounts, but much of the slop in the shifter has been eliminated. :thumbup:

To recap, here's where I ended up for Stage 1 of the maintenance and upgrades (much more than I originally planned for the first stage! :eek:):

Maintenance
Clean out front radiators (done)
Unclog drain holes (done)
Coolant/Oil/brake fluids (done)
Blackstone oil analysis (done - clean report)
Current IMSB pulled and inspected (done - OEM dual row in good condition)
Transmission fluid (done)
Alignment (done - GT3 spec)

Parts Installed
Michelin Pilot Super Sport Tires
NGK Spark Plugs & new coils
New Serpentine Belt
FVD Motorsport Oil Pan with upgraded baffle
Magnetic oil drain plug
New Air filter
New Pollen Filter
New Water Pump
New Dual-Mass Flywheel
EPS Clutch
Wevo semi solid engine mounts
LN Low temp thermostat
GT3 coilovers
Tarett Monoball Camber Plates - Front
Tarett sway bar mounts
IMSB - dual row LN retrofit
OEM Fuel tank valve
New AOS
New RMS
New chain tensioners
Tarett Adjustable Endlinks - Rear
GT3 Console Delete + AC/HVAC control trim to relocate climate unit to dash

And the "Stage 2" List is already growing:

Clear side markers (already on order :icon501:)
GT3 sway bars (looking to source a set - please PM me if you have a lead)
Shifter upgrade (Ben’s/997/GT3/other?)
Upgraded Brakes
Suspension bushing refresh (Powerflex?)
Fister (or equivalent) exhaust mod

We manufacture our own version of the GT3 bars.

https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...cf55eb858b.jpg

Same fit and function, but at a reasonable price. The kit includes the OEM GT3 swaybar bushings.

Ira

Bah, stop tempting me... or my car will end up a rolling advertisement for Tarett. :p

That's a good thing. Nobody stands behind their products like Tarret. Just last week, I boogered up a brand new top mount, 100% my fault, and Ira came up with a solution to fix it for me at no cost.

Agreed. The products and service have been top notch.

Slightly OT, the wife got me one of these as a belated b'day present:

https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...e3e31e7c36.jpg

It's going to make for some interesting shots once I get the hang of it. :evilgrin:

https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...7db2320dee.jpg

Sweet! I was at an event last week where there was a drone flying around recording footage. I was really surprised at how loud it was. I guess the big ones are pushing a lot of air with all those blades.

Indeed, though the good thing about the Mavic is that it's pretty tiny.

https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...01f8c54b8f.jpg

Finally got a chance to wash the car.

https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...51c56fbde9.jpg

Snapped on the clear corners... they look so much better then the orange on a seal grey car. :thumbup:

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...791b7d8c99.jpg

Clearly I need wheels with a slightly more aggressive offset. :p

Not much in terms of updates, as I've been focusing on driving the car. :burnout:

I did however take care of a few maintenance items:

1. Replaced the fuel purge valve after running into an issue starting the car after re-fueling (required multiple cranks to start). Installing the new purge valve cleared it right up.

2. I replaced the low pressure piston and spring as it's inexpensive and a known failure point (though it turns out that my spring was fine).

Starting to think about ways of keeping the engine cooler when the car is in stop and go traffic. While moving on the highway, I'm now consistently 5-10 deg. cooler with all the mods and maintenance I've done so far (hovering around 79 deg. C as read on the climate control unit).

While in stop and go traffic, however, I haven't seen significant change. The 3rd radiator mod is an obvious option. I'm also curious if folks have looked into getting the radiator fans to kick in at a lower temp. Once I hear them start blowing at full speed, the coolant temp stabilizes.

Just on number 1, was this the purge valve on the fuel filler neck?

Hard starting/multiple cranks after a re-fuel happens occasionally to me however it could also be the regeneration valve in the engine bay so i'm planning to replace either of those.

No, I'm referring to the vent valve located on top of the engine:

https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...99c4de4c90.jpg

Thanks for confirming! Thats the other valve I thought it might have been.

Its easier to replace than the one on the filler neck anyway!

Finally got a bit of free time to continue working on the 996. First mod on the list: FisterD mufflers.

Rear bumper removed and mufflers pulled off the car:

https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...bb1d3cf697.jpg
https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...7b5098236d.jpg

Bumper and shields hosed down and cleaned:

https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...4e09e5cb85.jpg

Post modification and cleanup by Darin at FisterD:

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...834d8c6af2.jpg
https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...13dfaab4d5.jpg

The magic sauce:

https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...92e3b9c047.jpg

Cleaned up prepped for re-install:

https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...bc1db6a0d8.jpg

Bolted in:

https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...0a727c1ecc.jpg

Shield on:

https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...19597c92d2.jpg

Repeat on the other side, and then slide the bumper skin back on.

A relatively easy install, though the most painful part was re-aligining the tips so they are even on both sides. Luckily, Darin adjusted bolts so they are accessible from under the car.

The car is absolutely transformed with the upgraded mufflers. Sound at idle or when off throttle is only marginally louder than stock... but it absolutely growls when on throttle, making heel-toe downshifts an absolute blast. :thumbup:

Here's a quick update on where I am on the slippery slope.

Maintenance
Clean out front radiators (done)
Unclog drain holes (done)
Coolant/Oil/brake fluids (done)
Blackstone oil analysis (done - clean report)
Current IMSB pulled and inspected (done - OEM dual row in good condition)
Transmission fluid (done)
Alignment (done - GT3 spec)

Parts on order
Ben's shifter upgrade

Parts Installed
Michelin Pilot Super Sport Tires
NGK Spark Plugs & new coils
New Serpentine Belt
FVD Motorsport Oil Pan with upgraded baffle
Magnetic oil drain plug
New Air filter
New Pollen Filter
New Water Pump
New Dual-Mass Flywheel
EPS Clutch
Wevo semi solid engine mounts
LN Low temp thermostat
GT3 coilovers
Tarett Monoball Camber Plates - Front
Tarett sway bar mounts
IMSB - dual row LN retrofit
OEM Fuel tank valve
New AOS
New RMS
New chain tensioners
Tarett Adjustable Endlinks - Rear
GT3 Console Delete + AC/HVAC control trim to relocate climate unit to dash
Clear side markers
Fister Exhaust

Had some free time this afternoon so I did the radiator fan switch hack to allow me to turn on the high speed radiator fans on demand on hot days or at the track.

Overall it was a pretty easy install per the instructions found on RL and RT.

1. I ran a wire connecting the ground pins (#85) of the #20 and #22 relays located under the dash in the driver side footwell.

https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...fe40ecb673.jpg

2. I then ran a wire from the #20 relay ground pin to a switch. The other connection of the switch was then run to a chassis ground point. I used this screw as the ground point:

https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...a1604ff71b.jpg

3. I then installed the switch in a discreet location close to the relay box (I used the plastic guard at the bottom of the box as my mount point).

https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...b8ba3bc68d.jpg

It's completely hidden unless you know where to look.

https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...3b349eaf3e.jpg

Not as convenient as a dash switch, but I can reach it with relative ease, and don't expect that I'll be using it that often. It's just nice to know I have the control while stuck in traffic on hot California days. :cheers:

I have a vague memory of those days...

Nice job on the Fisters! IMHO, it's the best mod for these cars.

It's been a while since I last posted on this thread, but life and then covid got in the way. Beyond regular maintenance, the only thing that has changed since my last upgrade was the addition of the GT3 wheels to complete the package.

https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlis...d23fb5d25.jpeg

I've been enjoying the car immensely (though ended up driving it infrequently during the covid years), but it's time to move it on.

For anyone who's looking for a well sorted 966, I've listed it in the marketplace for what I hope is a fair price (https://rennlist.com/forums/market/1297006).

As always, feedback is welcome.

Car looks great.

Slightly off topic but you've had some awesome 911s (G50 3.2, 993, 993 C2S) how does the 996 stack up against those. A G50 coupe and a '95 993 are peak 911 for me.

Thanks. The 996 is definitely the best handling of the bunch (with light mods) and has all the modern amenities that make it easy to live with as a daily. It's a great combination and very underrated right now. I expect that 10 years from now, people will be looking back in astonishment at the current prices. I'm sad to see it go (once it sells) and am eager to keep it in the Rennlist family.

Loved the G50 coupe, it was the car I got to commemorate my wedding so it has a special place in my heart. It was noisy and smelly. The new wife was not too impressed. :D

The C2S was sex on wheels... an ok handling car, but hands down the most beautiful car I've ever owned. I eventually caved under the pressure to sell it when the market went crazy. I enjoyed my time with it, but don't regret selling it.

But, as with you, my 95 993 was the best of the bunch. God I miss that car. It was as far from a daily as you could get while still being street legal. The neighbors hated me because of the supercups, every street racer wanted to have a go because of the aero kit, but I loved that car. It also had history as a 3-times Rennlister car. I managed to dig up my old thread on it, a bit of a trip down memory lane:

https://rennlist.com/forums/993-foru...e-aligned.html

Hi @MiataR 3 quick questions for you. But first, I MUST make time to read the entire thread. I'm currently in Year 1 of a 996 project, and have so far sunk about 11K into replacing old worn parts, though some of that $ went on PCCM Plus and sport exhaust. Thanks for this cool thread. Last weekend I installed the Function First Shift right kit. Working on this car is a blast. BUT, I'm not a mechanic, have no lifts or even jack stands, no breaker bars or torque wrenches, no ratcheting closed head wrench etc. The cost of those tools, while over time might be 'worth it', might be more than it will cost to have my sport exhaust installed. I'm trying to decide.
So, My Q's,
a) do you have to remove the bumper to do the exhaust (muffler) removal and replacement? I see that you did it, but others claim to have done the fitting without bumper / heatshield removal. Thoughts?
b) Also if you have a minute, can you list the tools you used to replace mufflers? I think I know what I need but is there anything that's not mentioned in Project 47 in the 101 projects book? I think, regardless of what I decide to do, I will go to advancedauto up the street and get a jack and two stands. Then I can lift up the rear and get some liquid wrench (I'm a NC resident) on the various fittings.
c) .one more thing. I purchased my exhaust from topgear UK, it's a valded exhaust. Online research shows me the hardware they include is sub par. Did you use new gaskets and hangers / clips? I might as well order the hardware in preparation. What did you have to buy? Thanks in advance!

I might have already used up my questions for the day, week?, I know we are all busy. If you do not reply I will not take it personally. Thanks for sharing your project with us.

Appreciate the insight!

I have seat time in 964s, 3.2 carreras, 997s, 991s. Love the way the 996 drives but have never driven a 993. On principle it seems like the perfect combo of 996 handling with the aircooled charm (no wonder they're so valuable :p) Your feedback seems to corroborate.

You're welcome, this sounds like a familiar tale of the slippery slope of improvements and modifications. This is the most fun part of any project for me.

I don't think it's absolutely required, but it makes it much easier to do with the bumper off and is not that hard. This was also an opportunity for me to clean the area thoroughly.

It's been a while, but I just used standard tools that I had in my tool box. A full socket set, Phillips screwdrivers, etc. It really doesn't required any special tools.

IIRC, I just followed the instructions on Pelican: https://www.pelicanparts.com/techart...ce_Exhaust.htm

Hm, others might be able to help you better with this question. Since I was putting the stock (Fister modified) mufflers back on, I just used the OEM hardware. You may want to check the link from Pelican posted above as it may specify additional parts you can order.

No problem, glad to help!