I got a lead on a 986 Boxter for a STEAL! Too good to be true... it has to be... Here's the story...

The person selling it says it runs great but the PCM fried for some reason. He has the new PCM, but it needs some programing to make it run. He says it will have to be sent out to a specialist for ~$1k, with a two week lead time.
"Alright... ok...."... I'm nodding and thinking. (I'm expecting security related things)
So... that night I do the research... I learn all about the M96 engine "quirks"... I think you are all aware where this is going....
...
Worried about the mechanical condition I ask... "Can I come crank it over?"
Guy says... "It doesn't crank without the PCM programing/installed."
Me... "Oh really?"... (:/)

I don't know about Porsche specifically.... but I want to call BS at this point. So I've come to the experts. Does this make perfect sense to anyone?

I mean, of course I know I could always turn it over by jumping the starter solenoid wire. Or put a socket and ratchet on the crank and give it a rotation. ... But I feel like even with a brick for a PCM, the ignition switch should still negotiate power to the starter. The only way I could se this not being true is if there was a security system that interrupts the starter... which I concede is totally plausible.

Anyone have experience with this? Is it true the PCM prevents engine cranking? Thanks for the input.

 

*Bump* Had some more conversations and did more research...

It seems that the issue is with the (security) interrupter under the seat, which makes all the sense. Horrid systems in any vehicle.

I go to check the thing out tomorrow. Hoping to be able to turn it over a few times to ensure good mechanical condition.