BOXSTER HAUS

September 2025 (selection)

2000 Porsche 911 Cabriolet (996) C4 Engine 3.4 Tiptronic Owner: Peter H. 71,000k

Brief: Oil analysis and inspection.

Quite a unique 996 C4 (All Wheel Drive), imported from Hong Kong, and currently for sale. Full Gemballa kit; Peter mentioned that the kit would cost $27,000 to replace today. He asked us to thoroughly check his car prior to sale, including the all-important oil analysis. We dropped the oil and sump (Bore Score check), removed the oil filter, and opened it for inspection. The results came back, all clear. Peter is happy! Replaced an ignition module, spark plugs and sleeves. Sorted other issues. Ready for its next owner.

Notes: Image 2 is a ‘disceted cartridge oil filter. 3 is a sample of oil ready for the lab. 4 removed the sump for inspection, and 5 is a portion of the engine (filtration) not a fan of this system; there's a lot of noise, but no go.

1990 Porsche 911 Cabriolet (964) C4 Engine 3.6
5 Speed Owner David Y. 145,000km

Brief: Brake Issues / Engine Flush Full Service

Another complicated project! A beautiful 964 C4 (All Wheel Drive), owned long-term by the same owner, has a brake issue. Another workshop initially diagnosed an accumulator problem, but we later found the real issue was a pressure line in the Diff Lock module (a Pool of brake fluid). Unfortunately, David had already bought a new accumulator (famously known as the ‘bomb') from Porsche. The C4 has 13 bleeder points; it ultimately replaced the bomb, as we were in the area, David could not return the part. Why not just replace it?

Porsche correctly claims that the 964 C4, introduced in 1989, was built with approximately 80% new parts compared to the previous 1988 3.2 Carrera model. The C4 of this vintage used an electronic, 3-differential system (derived from the Paris-Dakar 959) that is reportedly heavy and can feel more restrictive, often leading to understeer. We disagree! The 993 C4 (Which superceded the 964) used a simpler (Less expensive) albeit lighter viscous-coupling centre differential that we are told provides a more rear-wheel-drive feel. Having driven both, the 964C4 trumps the other. Many may disagree, but that is perfectly fine, exactly what makes Porsche 911 ownership so special. It’s subjective and personal.

David is unashamedly a 964 fanboy. Having driven to Sydney several times, once to Melbourne, this is (was) essentially his daily driver. Having owned several classic 911s prior to his 964, all coupes, he believes the Cabriolets are far more usable for travel.

Along with repairing the Diff lock & ABS systems, we flushed the engine (Liqui Moly) with new oil, filters and belts, and had her running beautifully.

Notes: Image 1: Lovely lines of the last traditional bodied 911. 2 is the leaky diff lock (Located in front hood), 3 is the OE new pressure line (black), 4 is the location of a missing heater pipe (hose). Once fitted, the 964, the cabin was considerably cooler. 5. Rear End! 6. Front Drive shaft boot, future work. 7. Air cond and V-Belts 8. Under dash electrical.

2007 Porsche Cayman S (987) Engine 3.4
6 Speed Kevin S. 106,000km

Brief: Oil analysis, service, suspension, brakes

A NZ import. Lovely condition. The car was sold while at Boxster Haus. The brief went ahead. Oil analysis, bore inspection, front bump stops/boots, wheel alignment, and, for the new owner, Simon, front/rear discs, pads, anti-rattle springs, and sensors. A super clean example, grossly undervalued Porsche. Our choice of discs is Zimmermann or Brembo. For us, front pads have to be Textar.

Notes: Image 1, Kevin’s lovely Cayman S. Extremely fast example. 2 Top engine inspection 3 Front Strut bump stops/bellows 4. Julian is back from a test drive. With a big smile!

2004 Porsche Boxster (986.2) Engine 2.7
5 Speed Owner Kieren G. 70,000k

Brief: Back for Stage 2. Suspension work. Fit Bilsteins on front. The originals were tired, as were bump stops and boots.

Kieren previously asked Julian if he could take him for a drive in his well-sorted 986.2 Boxster. Julian had fitted Bilsteins, KYB heavy-duty springs (standard height), OE-matched top mounts, and bearings. A very tight and balanced example. We have a favourite testing ground (Curves, braking zones, got the lot) very close to our workshop. That drive was enough to show Kieren the remarkable handling capabilities of Boxsters when sorted. He wanted the same! After all tasks were completed, he picked up his Porsche. After a quick run on the same testing ground, Kieren stopped and sent a text, ‘WOW! ’ Most appreciated! Of course, we love such messages! It was a serious transformation. The Boxster handles and steers as it should. Looks fantastic, a real Porsche!