Instructions for dropping the automatic transmission

Not covered in your book, but I will ask the question anyway. I am as certain as I can be that the IMS bearing in my 2000 Boxster with Tiptronic is failing. I have Bentley Publishers Boxster Service Manual. They show Porsche tool # 9596 which appears to be a plate that covers the starter hole with holes in it to remove bolts. I cannot find the tool on the Internet. What is the purpose of the tool and do I need it to remove the automatic trans.?

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This post was auto-generated based upon a question asked on our tech article page here: Pelican Technical Article: Boxster Intermediate Shaft Bearing Replacement and Upgrade (IMS) - 986 Boxster (1997-04) - 987 Boxster (2005-06)

[Wayne 962]

Right - I didn't cover the automatic transmission removal in the 101 Projects book, but it is documented a bit in the Bentley and Factory Workshop manuals. I added some pages from these manuals at this link here: http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarticles/Boxster_Tech/37-TRANS-Drop/Auto-Drop.pdf Wayne at Pelican Parts

[very~worn~944]

Ron, the plate is not necessary...but it does keep you from making A BIG booboo. You can remove the converter bolts without the plate, but the plate keeps everything lined up and plugs the passage into the bell housing. Without the plate if a bolt falls down into the bell housing while removing it can jam, ruining your chances at turning the engine over to access the others. Just be mindfull and careful. Take your time, use a good droplight and mirror, ensure each bolt head is fully seated to your hex, and use "dumdum" or other tacky agent to secure it. Have a magnet nearby too! The hardest part is reassembly, my best suggestion is get them all started and wound most of the way in before fully torquing any of them. Even though you have to rotate the motor all the way over twice, it's WAY better than cross threading the torque converter which can be easy. Don't drink too much coffee before this procedure!