Byron in MS

Well, I was not so lucky with the valve spring theory. Turns out, the mechanic thinks that I have a bad bearing on the intermediate shaft. He found metal shavings in the oil and filter. The car still runs, but makes a rattling noise. I have only driven it up on a trailer and off again.

He says he can get me a replacement engine from Porsche for $6995, plus installation! That would be 10K into a '97 Boxster with 150K miles. I just can't see doing that! Any suggestions on putting in a used engine? Any of you 3.2L upgraders got a spare 2.5L sitting in the garage? Has anyone on the board ever rebuilt a Boxster engine?

Turboflyer

I have built quite a few engines, but I think the problem with Porsche is getting parts. Buy a good used engine, low miles with a short warrantee. The 3.2 might be just the ticket.

Todd Holyoak

Just as easy to put a 3.4 in there as it is a 3.2. Alternatively used 2.5L engines are pretty cheap.

todd

broskinny

The parts are available from Porsche, but depending on what year your Boxster is there are probably multiple updates that will be necessary while rebuilding the engine. Parts and special tools alone will exceed the replacement cost of the complete unit.
I have heard of people replacing the intermediate shaft bearing alone without disassebling the engine. You need to remove the transmission, flywheel and intermediate shaft housing, take a look at the bearing and see if it has failed or not.

Boxsterund914

OK, so what do you think the value is of the car right now in it's present state? What I mean is... what would the car be worth right now to someone who wants a "killer deal" in order to have a toy to experiment with? Compare that to what the car would be worth on the open market to someone who knew it's history (mileage, rebuilt motor, etc.) after the engine replacement. Compare this to what you have in it and make a cold financial decision.

Post some pictures of (and details about) the car here and see what interest there is in a sale. Heck, at the right price I might be interested. What is that price? I don't know how much do you want?

Imo000

Go to www.car-parts.com it’s a listing of most of the wrecking yards inventory in North America. You’ll see there are low mileage engines available between $4000 and $4700. Your best bet is to buy a complete low mileage engine and just have it swapped by your mechanic. A straight engine swap should not be more than $1000. I do all my work so the labour estimate is just a guess. Either way this is an expensive repair. Might be a better choice to sell the car As Is. What is a ’97 Boxter with this mileage and WITH running engine is worth?

Bo

Todd:

When you say it is just as easy to put in a 3.4, Iamb assuming that you have done it.

I have a 98' Boxster and am considering an upgrade in performance. Could you relate your experience? Are you satisfied with the results? Did you have to replace harness, computer, transmission, and other things like a/c?

Appreciate your help, Bob

Todd Holyoak

Bob,

Yes I did it with my car. See http://www.renntech.org/forums/index...topic=4798&hl=

for all the details. If you have more questions let me know. It is quite simple.

Todd