BOXSTER HAUS
May 2026 (selection)
1974 Porsche 911 Engine 2.7 140,000km.
5-Speed. (LHD) Owner Simon. A
Brief: Inpect & Repair 5th gear whine in 915 Gearbox.
Having already removed the engine and gearbox in preparation for the 3.0-litre (from a 78 SC 911), Simon mentioned that the gearbox had an annoying whine in 5th gear.
Unfortunately, once we removed the 5th gear cluster cover, a rogue (loose) broken 5mm stud and nut fell out (see row 2, image 1). Most concerning! No choice, we had to completely strip the gearbox and find the origin of the stud. The 5th-gear cluster bearing required replacement, but it would have been nonsensical to ignore the stud. Not only did we strip the gearbox, but we also dismantled the differential assembly. Other than several worn bearings, there was no sign of breakage.
Quite bizarre and a little frustrating! Three of us double and triple-checked, nothing; the gearbox and diff were intact. The gearbox had been dismantled, not surprisingly, as the 911 was 50 years old. Our conclusion? A previous mechanic dropped a broken stud, perhaps from an engine he was working on, obviously quite unaware of such an extraordinary occurrence; no damage occurred.
1977 Porsche 911 2.7
Sportsmatic, Owner Ryan K. 65,500k
Brief: Keep her well charged.
Having rebuilt the complicated (sensitive) Sportsmatic electronic (Clutchless) gearbox function, it soon became apparent that unless the alternator was charging at 100%, gear-changing functionality was compromised. After 15 minutes of driving, it was very difficult to change manually. Ryan’s 911 had a 4-speed Sportomatic fitted at some time. Around town, you can live in D1, but it's far too low for highway driving, which is why you need to change manually.
Originally, the 77 911s ran a 55-AMP alternator with an external Valeo (French) voltage regulator. The new Alternator was a PowerLight 160-AMP. Although they claim it is a direct fit, it actually is not. Different-sized cables, spacers required and modification to the alternator housing. Disappointing, that said, once sorted and fitted, the Powerlight works a treat. Certainly a work of art, produced from one piece of billeted alloy.
There was an issue with the taillights and no. plate lights not working. ] Found plugs not connected and some dash wires dangerously grounding. Julian repaired all, all good. She drives a treat. Very special 911.
1990 Porsche 911 (964) 3.6
Manual, Owner Boxster Haus. 145,762kms.
Brief: More tasks!
The 964 project continues! She is a long-term venture; the list is lengthy. The hoist had a gap, a perfect opportunity to fit our Design Tech Springs (Lowered by 30mm front & rear), Fitted Bilsteins Sport (Rear only), resulting in a far more aggressive stance. In standard guise, the 964 sits way too high!
The LHF outer CV shaft boot had a split. A perfect opportunity to rebuild and replace both boots and outer.
A few minor tasks for an RWC, then Julian and I can register and enjoy one of our favourite cars. Mechanically (Engine, gearbox and brakes), she is superb. Having driven (or owned) many 911s across various years and configurations, a well-sorted 964 hits the sweet spot for us.
The interior is completely shot. Fortunately, the 964 was specked with the Sports (Turbo) seats; we are excited to replace all the cushions (Seat base & Backrest) & leather trim, having found a firm who can supply OE materials. They are based in Belgium (Lakewell Heritage Automotive) and also do OE carpet sets and more. Pricing is not for the faint of heart; once on the road, we will begin with the 2 front seats. The seat height adjuster motors also need to be replaced. Old Porsches! They require a lot of love, but do reward!
2016 Porsche 718 Boxster 2.0
PDK, owner: Andrew & Kirsten. 42380kms.
Brief: Brakes and Urgent!
A & K are a Porsche family, very enthusiastic about the brand & community, especially track days! Kirsten gets the most out of her brakes! Andrew runs a 991.2 GTS and a family Macan. The little 718 is a rocket ship, having been chipped in Melbourne (prior to moving to the Sunshine Coast). Very low in kms, and well maintained. Boxster Haus is very happy to maintain the high standard of service set by previous Porsche specialists.
The brakes were due. Even with worn brakes, Porsches still stop better than most.
Then the 2.0 flat 4 engine is a surprise. Whilst not well received by Porsche purists, we loved the torque, the sound, and the drivability.
After the brakes, we carried out a Liqui Moly comprehensive service. Engine Flush, oil & filters. Good for another 10,000 km. A beautiful car.