Spicybeetle

Had a 70k mile TTS at a shop for PPI. It had PDK fluid and pan replaced a few hundred miles ago by previous owner. Shop indicated “slight rotational noise coming from PDK at operating temp”. Sounds like maybe a bearing/shaft mechanical sound. Only happens in Neutral when warm, doesn’t happen when cold or in Drive. Transmission shows no issues while driving.

Is this normal? Is this a risk worth walking away from? Theres a theory the sound came up before hence the reason for PDK service and that didn’t fix it.

EVOMMM

Sounds like it’s time to walk away or a replacement or repair both ideas are serious $$$$
if you haven’t bought keep looking

Petza914

Noise from an unloaded transmission is usually a bearing of some sort starting to fail. I don't know crap about PDK transmissions and what's inside them or how they work, but generally speaking, noises aren't good and only get worse.

The expense risk of a PDK is why I'll never own a Porsche that has one. I keep my cars forever and would also be worried that in 25 years when I still have my 997 that PDKs will be crazy expensive to keep on the road.

Wayne Smith

This is a bit strange. Mechanically the PDK is pretty bullet proof. If you go over to the 991 Turbo side you'll find some of those guys pushing 1000 HP and at that point a couple have broken some gears, but hey, that's way beyond spec.

Spicybeetle

Is the 991 turbo transmission different? Maybe more evolved?

Wayne Smith

As far as I know, the TCU was altered to improve shifting, but all else remained the same. If anyone knows differently, please respond.

Recent posts talk about pulling gears out so they can be hardened. But we are talking about PDKs that are being subjected to highly modified motors with 1000 HP ... well beyond specification.