This is the BEST money that I have ever spent! Hands Down… Well first things first, I encountered some little problems during the install. Scott did an awesome job on the install article he posted on his web site: http://www.softronictuning.com/installation/. The article is on the 3.4 so I had to deviate and modified it to fit the 2.7. I cut the slit in the large vacuum hose by accident. Try not to do this if you can help it. There is enough room to fight the hose, to get it off...
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I've been having an intermittent Check Engine light, and during my last visit to the dealer, Jim Ellis in Atlanta (no affiliation), reading the fault codes seemed to indicate one bad Oxygen Sensor, Bank 1 (right side), pre-cat. The Oxygen Sensor, also known as the O2 Sensor, or Lambda Sensor does just what you might guess, measure oxygen in the exhaust gases. Voltage created by the sensor is proportional to how much oxygen is present, and the computer (DME) uses this signal along with other...
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This article describes the installation of a new master cylinder. Thanks to Rob VN for the pictures. GT3 MC Part #: 99735591030 Note you can buy either the TRW MC or the Porsche MC. Both of these are the same but the TRW cost over $100. 1) Remove the plastic around the master cylinder (MC) by removing the 8 torx screws and jiggling it out.
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After missing the accelerator once or twice during heel-toe downshifts, I decided to install a set of pedals in my Cayman S. A friend had suggested the Rennline Aluminum Pedals and Santa Claus brought me a set in 2008. Here's what I received: https://caymanregister.org/picture.php?albumid=287&pictureid=2851 https://caymanregister.org/picture.php?albumid=287&pictureid=2852 https://caymanregister.org/picture.php?albumid=287&pictureid=2853 ...
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Thanks to our wonderful Porsche engineers, gone are the days that the first inkling that you have a problem with your brake lights, is when you get pulled over by a cop to let you know that a light is out, and possibly even write you a fix-it ticket (let's face it, none of us enjoys getting pulled over, even for a minor infraction like that). So, I was pleasantly surprised when my car informed me that I had a problem with right brake light a couple of days ago. I figured that this...
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If you track your car a lot, you may find yourself considering the use of some more aggressive brake pads. There are many good choices available. Some folks use them part time only when on the track, others use them full time for both track and street. Regardless of how you want to use them, you will run into one snag. Many of the available race pads are not compatible with Porsche's brake wear sensors, and for those that are, changing the sensors from pad to pad is a hassle that slows down an...
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Variously called the Emergency Brake, Handbrake, Parking Brake, sometimes the system wears, or loosens up, so that too much movement of the lever is required for braking. The parking brake cable cannot be adjusted. Adjustment is via threaded barrel adjusters inside the rear brake rotors. Access to the adjuster can be made through a wheel bolt hole. Brake rotor removal is NOT required. The brakes should be fully applied if you pull the hand lever 5 clicks. Installing wheel studs will...
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When I was cleaning my new to me car, noticed there was a significant 'ding' in the drivers side radiator. Saw on another forum how someone had done a great job with metal gutter guard, to protect the radiator. But to do that, you had to pull the headlight assembly apart and it was a more permanent fix. Every time I step out of my pay grade, I end up doing more harm than good. Decided that the Home Depot plastic guard would work, $1.72 on clearance! Made a rough template out of thin card...
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Changing the oil and filter on a GT-4 is not rocket science. This procedure is a little different and a little more difficult on the GT-4 than it is on other Caymans. There are a few specialty tools I would recommend you obtain before tackling this maintenance task. With a few tips and tricks in mind, even an amateur mechanic can handle this job. 1Torque Values Fastener LocationDescriptionTool SizeTorque ValueDrain Plug18mm Aluminum Drain Plug8mm Hex Driver37 ft.lb.Oil FilterPlastic...
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I purchased the Aerokit Front Splitters (2006 - 2008 987.1) from Suncoast to complement the Getty R/S rear wing that I had installed earlier. I received the LH and RH splitter, 6 expansion rivets, and an adhesive kit. No instructions were included but I contacted Suncoast and they emailed a PDF file of the Tequipment Aerokit Installations Instructions. This 19 page document primarily covers the installation of the rear wing but pages 17 & 18 cover the front splitters. The splitters...
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The rear trunk interior panels are all soft panels pressed into place like a 3D jigsaw puzzle. Removal is easy and requires few tools. There is a particular order in which the panels must be removed and installed. Removing the Rear Trunk Interior Panels: 1. Remove both Tail Light housing covers by rotating their fastening clips 90 degrees and pulling the covers out. 2. Insert your hand over the back of the trunk side panels. Grip them firmly and pull up and out. The whole...
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1). Remove the right side dash trim panel by gently prying outward from the front with a panel tool, then rotating it to the right. 2). Remove the right side front trim piece by prying forward with a suitable panel tool. 3). Remove right side center console cover. 4). Remove the two screws that hold the cup holder assembly in place and remove the cup holder assembly.
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Removing a 987 door panel is a pretty straight forward operation that can be done with basic tools and mechanical skills. 4 The door panel is held to the door by 5 T-30 Torx screws and 9 friction clips. The screws are hidden in the following locations: To access the screws, you first need to removes a few trim panels from the door. Let's start with the mirror trim. The mirror trim is held in my two friction clips on it's bottom, and a slide connection on the tip. 4
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The Cayman and the Boxster share the same chassis. One of the benefits of this is that the Cayman chassis includes the factory mounts used for the Boxster Roll Over Hoops. I believe that using the factory mounts is superior to bolting a roll bar to the floor. The Hergesheimer and new GMG roll bars use the factory mounts. I'm using the Hergesheimer bar but this article will also apply to the GMG bar. The Hergesheimer roll bar includes an all welded main hoop with a diagonal and harness...
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INTRODUCTION Durametric is a small company which produces a Porsche diagnostic tool for use by independent service shops or individual enthusiasts, and is as close as one can come to owning the equivalent of the PIWIS system that dealer service departments use, for thousands of dollars less. Unfortunately, Durametric provides very little in the way of documentation or tutorials in the use of their tool, which is part of the reason I have decided to write this primer. Some of the...
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The Air Oil Separator (AOS) operates to return oil that was mixed with air from the cam covers and return it to the crankcase. It has two inlet pipes, one from each cam cover and a bottom hose where the oil returns to the crankcase. This articles shows the photos taken to remove the AOS from a 2007 Base Cayman. Remove the engine cover. Jack up the car and remove the right rear wheel. Remove the tie wrap on the wiring harness near the right hand hose connection. Squeeze the upper...
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There is an engine cover behind my seats? Some people don't know this, now you do! I call it the front engine cover, Porsche calls it the "rear wall cover", I think we're both right. The Goal: WHY? Replace Accessory Drive Belt - Scheduled Maintenance Item Underdrive Pulley Installation
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I hadn't even owned my Porsche for one year and I was learning first hand why everyone uses the term 'Slippery Slope' when they're talk about vehicle modifications. Just four months earlier I had installed a Borla catback exhaust system. Following that project I received a tidal wave of exhaust questions from forum members, but I didn't feel qualified to answer them based on my experience with just one system. I didn't have much to compare to. There was also something inside me that was craving...
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The rear suspension support plate isn't something that will go bad or need to be replaced. But, that darn thing is right smack in the way of many components in the back of our Caymans. If you want to change your transmission oil, it's is going to need to come out. Luckily it's pretty easy to remove it, but there are specific warnings that you'll want to be aware of. This article will guide you through a safe removal and reinstallation. 1!WARNING!: Removal of these parts can affect your...
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Ok Guys, The three bucket washing process Pick a place in the shade to wash your car. Before you get started make sure that the surface temp is not too high a good rule of thumb is if can touch the car comfortably you can proceed. You take three 5 gallon buckets with three grit guards. Fill two of the buckets with cool plain water and the third one, add your favorite car wash shampoo while you are filling it with cool water. Avoid using hot or warm water it softens the wax or...
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Wheel Alignment Values© Copyright 2011, Michael SouzaPCA Cayman RegisterBoxster/Cayman(Standard)PASM ModelsBoxster SpyderCayman R(Performance)Front Axle ValuesToe - Uncompressed Total+5' ± 5'+5' ± 5'+5' ± 5'Toe difference at 20° lock-1° 40' ± 30'-1° 50' ± 30'-1° 50' ± 30'Camber (w/wheels straight)-10' ± 15'-15' ± 15'-45' ± 15'max. difference, left to right20'20'20'Caster8° + 30'/-45'8° + 30'/-45'8° + 30'/-45'max. difference, left to right40'40'40'Rear Axle ValuesToe per wheel+5' ± 5'+5' ± 5'+5'...
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Caring for Microfiber Towels Don’t Mix With Laundry Do not mix the load with your usual laundry. Instead, make a laundry load comprised only of microfiber products. Remember that cotton and microfiber are not the same. Don’t Use Bleach or Fabric Softeners If you want to wash your microfiber towels in the washing machine, use only a mild detergent that does not contain bleach. Fabric softeners and bleach will both eliminate the static charges that make your microfiber so...
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981 Boxster/Cayman uses closed-back front calipers, which must be removed to change front brake pads. It's not a difficult task, but a few tips with pictures will hopefully make it even easier. CAUTION: 1. Do not stress the hard metal brake line when moving the caliper around 2. Properly torque the brake caliper screw is crucial. Over torque it and you risk pulling the thread out of the aluminum wheel carrier. 3. Caliper screws are one-time use. Always replace with new ones. Never...
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Upper engine cover removal will probably be the first disassembly most owners will do on their beloved Caymans, and subsequently the most frequent disassembly operation. For almost every car on the road you can just pop the hood to get access to the engine, but placing the engine in the middle of the car kind of eliminates this easy method. Why? Access for maintenance or checks like Air Cleaner Cartridge Replacement or Checking the Power Steering Fluid Level. Installing a clear...
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Hopefully this helps some people because it was difficult to find and required microphones etc. This was a left rear cabin creaking/cracking noise that would show up during suspension travel, throttle in turns and pulling in and out of driveways. Additionally it sounded like it was coming from the left rear upper shock mount while driving. This made it difficult because it pointed toward a suspension issue, which was incorrect. All interior plastic was removed, bolts checked, hatch checked,...
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This Article discusses two accessories geared towards those who regularly track their Caymans. Jack Box NOTE: Porsche officially recommends jacking up the Cayman only at the specified lift points on the chassis; refer to Gator Bite's Tip of the Week: Lifting the Cayman Porsche's recommendation or warning notwithstanding, many of us who track our cars desire an easier way to jack up the car for swapping tires, servicing brakes, etc. Individuals and teams that race Caymans have...
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The IMS seems to be a real pain in the neck for us Porsche owners. Fortunately us Cayman owners are not very likely to experience an IMS bearing failure, but I have seen a number of members (including myself) develop a leak around the IMS cover. The seal is inexpensive, but the labor to reach it is significant and many specialty tools are required. I suspect that there are only a handful of members here who might attempt this repair themselves, but I thought it would be good to document...
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If you had told me back in 2007, when I took delivery of my Cayman S, that I'd some day be taking the transmission out of it I'd probably think you were crazy. I broke a lot of transmissions when I was a kid, but I've learned to respect my transmissions since then. As fate would have it, my car developed an oil leak that necessitated the removal of mine. Removing the transmission from one of these cars isn't as hard as you'd expect by I wouldn't call it easy either. There are a couple of...
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This is a very basic DIY and I hope to contribute more as I get to know my new Cayman over the years. But chalk it up as the first wrenching done on my new car. (I love working on cars) I wanted the safest method of getting the stickers off without trashing my brand new CR’s sun visors. So, this DIY is a summation of several DIYs that I read on the topic, that works, at least, for gen 2 vinyl Porsche sun visors. I read about the sun visor sticker removal on another forum. Ever since it...
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This article and accompanying pictures describe the procedure for removing the 981 Cayman upper engine cover. Tools required are: Plastic trim removal pry tools-available at most auto parts stores for under $20. Torx T30 driver-although a standard screwdriver handle type will work for most of the bolts, the two center front bolts on the engine cover provide very little working clearance, thus a short stubby T30 which can fit in a small 1/4 inch drive ratchet will eliminate much swearing....
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Replacing the Cabin Air Filter (also referred to as the Pollen Filter) is possibly the easiest maintenance task to perform on a Cayman. I'll demonstrate this task on my 2007 Cayman S. There are aftermarket filters available, but I like to use OE parts for my Porsche. The part number of the factory Porsche filter is 997.571.229.01. It's available at any Porsche parts department. I usually keep one on hand. Once you've obtained an OE filter or suitable replacement, you're ready to...
51 Comments

It was January 2007. I had my Cayman S for four short months and I was about to break a promise I'd made to myself. A friend had asked me if I'd be willing to install a Borla exhaust system on my Cayman and write up an article on what I thought. At first I declined. I really didn't have the money to spend on something like this, and I had promised myself I wouldn't start down the slippery slope of vehicle modifications with my Cayman S, a road I'd been down before with poor results. I was sort...
30 Comments

Changing a battery or suffering a dead battery is something that all of us will experience at one point or another. Our Caymans are very sophisticated. They contain many computerized control modules that may/can/will be effected by loss of battery voltage. This technical article will present the many instructions that Porsche recommends to their mechanics after loss and replacement of battery power. 1 Control Unit Memory Values and faults stored in the control units can be lost if the...
40 Comments

Changing the transmission oil in a Cayman will keep its transmission shifting nicely and will prolong its life. Porsche recommends replacing the transmission oil at 108,000 miles or at 12 years of age, and I think it goes without saying that tracked cars should see a fluid replacement sooner than recommended. The transmission doesn't have a filtration system, so this is an area where clean oil can go a long way. Check out this discussion to learn why regular gear oil changes are a good idea,...
24 Comments

A clutch is a wear item so it's only a matter of time before we each need to replace one. I replaced mine at 80,000 miles because I was in there to replace a leaking IMS cover seal. As it turned out, my original clutch was still in excellent condition. But there's nothing like the bite of a new clutch, and my leak repair required removal of the clutch, so replacement required nothing more than ordering parts. Because there is so much labor involved, it would have been senseless for me not to...
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In Part 1, I covered some of the basic functions that can be performed using the Enthusiast version of the Durametric cable. In this tutorial, I will discuss some of the more advanced uses of the cable, including some Coding functions for those who purchase or borrow the Professional cable. NOTE: Some some of these functions, particularly Activations and Coding could result in damage to your vehicle, as well as disabling some of the normal safety functions of your car. You undertake these...
49 Comments

I recently installed an accusump on my ’06 Cayman S and I thought it might be helpful to post some info about it. This is not intended to be a step by step how-to, but more of an overview of what I did to help folks understand what is required for the install. Also, please note that I am NOT an expert at accusump installation. This is the only one I have ever installed, and while I tried to carefully follow instructions, I may have made some mistakes. However, I have done a few track days with...
110 Comments

987.1 Cayman LED Running Lights / Radiator Protectors by Mike Santowasso, Cayman Register member "Speedy" Background Several weeks ago, I threw my name in the hat for a chance to take part in a PCA sponsored project to create a “how to” documentary on the installation of a set of LED Spars on a Cayman. The LED spars can be purchased for $399 (and would be provided to me for free). They were designed and produced by PCA member and Cayman enthusiast =11967"]Joseph DeSimone. They’re a...
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Removal of the rear interior trim pieces is an unfortunate necessity with a number of modifications, including changing the rear struts, changing stereo speakers, painting the trim pieces, or as in my case, installing a rollbar. This article should help to guide those who are unfamiliar with this process. Step 1 - Remove engine cover carpet. This is fairly easily accomplished by using a trim removal tool to pry up a front corner of the carpet first. Pull back on the front edge to release...
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The Good News: There's only one belt, and it is easy to change. The Bad News: The belt isn't that easy to get to. Why? The belt is a scheduled maintenance item. Temporary removal for maintenance or underdrive pulley installation Roadside Repair :(
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Since I DE my car a lot (6 track days last year, planning 8 track days this year) 2010 is to be the year I will bleed brakes before each event. I stand today 20 days from my first event of the season at Barber Motorsports Park in Leeds AL (where PSDS is held) so today was bleed brakes day. Over Christmas I had changed out the pads since they would not have passed the 3/16" minimum by the event date. While I was at it, I bought a liter of factory brake fluid (factory pads, factory fluid I'm just...
40 Comments

Article Addendum, August 14th, 2011. ATTENTION: After 25,000 miles with this product on my car I have experienced a serious problem with my original exhaust components. Please see this thread for more information. Based on these developements, I advise the addition of a stress relieving flex joint to the downpipes of this system. 3 You should see some of the looks I get when I tell people that I've changed the exhaust system on my two year old Porsche seven times since I bought it. I...
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Car batteries have a limited life span and will someday need to be replaced in every Cayman. There are many points to consider when choosing a replacement battery and when considering whether or not you'd like to change it yourself. You may want to search our forums for discussions about batteries before you decide on a battery and/or start your replacement. The battery replacement procedure for a Cayman is not much different than that used in other cars, but different enough that I think...
51 Comments

Replacing the Cayman air cleaner is pretty straightforward, and would be extremely easy except for the fact that the clearances are very tight. Some people refer to the air cleaner as an air filter, the engine air filter, etc., I would consider all to be correct. Why? The air cleaner is a scheduled maintenance item. Some owners in dusty or dirty environments will decide to replace this item on an accelerated schedule. Prerequisite- Remove Upper Engine Cover (link) Tools-
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The dreaded day arrived for me last fall. I'm writing of course about when my factory Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors reached the end of their life. My car is a 2007, manufactured in June 2007, put into service in July 2007. I started seeing TPMS malfunctions (the readings all went blank while driving, then came back) in the summer of 2014. So I got about 7 years, 80,000 miles out of my sensors before they went kaput. This is pretty much in line with the 6-8 years that other...
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The Cayman, as delivered from the factory, is one of the world's best handling sports cars but, like all road cars, has had some compromises in its suspension. When Porsche introduced models with enhanced performance such as the Cayman R and Boxster Spyder, suspension modifications were part of the package. Lower ride heights and higher anti-roll bar and spring rates were used in these models. The new X73 Sport Suspension option now available on 981 models includes those same changes. This...
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A third radiator provides extra cooling margin for those of us operating in warmer climates. This thread show a few photos of a third radiator installation into a 2007 Cayman 2.7L. YMMV. I purchased the third radiator kit from Suncoast. I was pleasantly surprised to find out the car was set up to accommodate the third radiator installation. Here is the kit:
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I remember it like it was yesterday. I’m referring of course to my first two weeks in my Cayman S. As one of the few Americans that had checked the ‘European Delivery’ option box, I had the rare opportunity to explore the limits of my new Porsche without the fear of legal complications. That’s right…. I was on the German autobahn, the A-31 to be exact, and I had just passed one of those nifty ‘No Speed Limit’ signs. I leaned into the throttle and let the speedometer climb. ...
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Removing the Exhaust System (Catback) 1 Torque Values Fastener LocationDescriptionTool SizeTorque ValueExhaust Flange NutsM8 Nut (x6) (Replace with Stainless Steel)13mm Socket17 ft.lb.Rear Exhaust to Hanger8mm Bolts and M8 Lock Nuts (x4)13mm Socket17 ft.lb.Exhaust Hanger Clamps8mm Bolts and M8 Lock Nuts (x8)13mm Socket17 ft.lb. 1 1). Place wheel chocks in front of and behind each front wheel. 2). Jack up both the right and left rear wheels of the car. Use jack stands to ensure...
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https://caymanregister.org/picture.php?albumid=402&pictureid=5112As a long time sports car guy, I've always missed having an oil pressure gauge in my Cayman. I think I just got used to seeing how temperature, oil life and engine condition can effect oil pressure. To this day, it's something I still look for. So I've finally broken down and delved into another Cayman project. I've decided to install an Oil Pressure Gauge in my Cayman S. After a lot of research, I chose the AutoMeter 4953 2 /16...
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Converting from the oem lug bolts to wheel studs and lug nuts is a simple & inexpensive DIY as can be seen in the photos below. I already had several sets of Porsche aluminum lug nuts for street use & steel lug nuts for track use left over from my 993 saving me that cost. Porsche aluminum or steel lug nuts are regularly available on eBay, as well as new from many Porsche parts sources. You'll need to buy 20 studs. I bought a few extras as spares which I carry in my track box (along with a...
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This is just a summary of what consolidated, FT and L8Apx have done. :thanks: First thing first, disconnect the battery and leave the trunk and hatch open. Leave them open until you are done with the DME. Background information, I am using Traqmate complete kit and Traqdata II. E6-RPM green/blue into RPM port D16-TPS violet into A0 port
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Porsche brake rotors can last for many years of normal street use without wearing out. For other owners 'normal' use also includes track duty which can accelerate wear and/or cause other defects like cracking. When normal wear or defects reach a certain threshold it is time for new discs. I will use the terms "rotor" and "disc" interchangeably, "rotor" because it is the part of the brakes which actually turns, and "disc" because of the part's shape. I feel this is an acceptable practice...
111 Comments

Porsche suggests the spark plugs get replaced at the 60,000 mile service...nuf said, lets get at it. I'll just go into detail for the steps to replace one plug, they are all similar. UPDATE: In 2008 Porsche lowered the recommended interval for replacing the spark plugs to 60,000 km (~37,000 miles) or 4 years, whichever comes first, for cars in the USA. My plugs looked OK at 60,000 miles, use your best judgement. Thanks to pcormier at P-9 for his spark plug article. Thanks to...
107 Comments

Changing the oil and filter on a Cayman is actually very easy, but slightly different than other oil changes you may have performed. There are a few specialty tools I would recommend you obtain before tackling this maintenance task. With a couple of tips and traps in mind even the most novice mechanic can handle this job. 1Torque Values Fastener LocationDescriptionTool SizeTorque ValueDrain Plug18mm Aluminum Drain Plug8mm Hex Driver37 ft.lb.Oil FilterPlastic Filter Housing74mm Oil...
168 Comments

OK guys, this isn't rocket science, but if you've never applied one of these this may help you get a really great look from your Cayman Register Window Decal. Yup, that's right. We've got our own window decal. It's the same diameter as the other PCA window decals so you can have one on each side of your car, a balanced set. A decal will be sent to every new member using the mailing address provided during registration. If you're reading this, then you've done all you need to do to get one....
413 Comments