Changes for 1988 model year?

[Eric Coffey]

I have put a deposit down on an `88 Targa this week, and was just curious to know what exactly was changed (if anything) from the 1987 model year. Also, is there anything in particular to examine/worry about with the newer G50 and hydraulic clutch system? Any input would be appreciated.

-Eric

[Roy M]

Eric

According to my info. US spec models changed as follows for MY 88

3 point rear seat belts (replacing lap belts)
'Soft Look' leather became option
Headlight Washers, heavy duty windshield cleaning, central locking and electronic cruise control became standard.

Looks like gilding on the lily only!

From my experience the G50 shouldn't cause problems - shifting is easier and the hydraulics take care of the adjustment. I often find the first change to second a little graunchy but that disappears as soon as there is a little warmth in the 'box.

Roy

[Periokid]

I have an 88 and I do not have the headlamp washers or the heavy duty windshield cleaning system. Perhaps is was just an option.



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David

1988 911 Carrera Coupe
http://www.leonoff.net

[88911coupe]

My 88 doesn't have those upgrades either. One thing you will have to deal with, unless the PO did it, is replace the clutch release bearing (proper name?) since it will fail. Hopefully it will last till the clutch goes but that did not happen on my 87. Great car otherwise.
Buck
88 Coupe

[MarkY]

On my 1988, the window sticker lists the following as options:

Heavy-duty Windshield Cleaning - $54.00

Headlight Washers - $223.00

Automatic Speed Control - $422.00

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1988 black on black Coupe
www.cheaterswayside.com/911/gallery.asp?sort=0&userid=339

[Kurt B]

How could you guys not have headlight washers? I have them...they're even mentioned in my manual, and I have an 84.

Let's face it, the ultimate 3.2 is the 84. All the goods and no additional garbage like an 'automatic' cabriolet top. I feel sorry for the poor b@stards with the 'automatic' (nonworking) top and automatic driver's seat.

Instead, the 84 is all guts and no glamor which is what you want in a sports car. If I wanted an electric seat and electric top, I'd get a cadillac, man.

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Kurt B
1984 Carrera Cabriolet
911 Page
carrera_cabriolet@yahoo.com

[This message has been edited by Kurt B (edited 07-19-2001).]

[KTL]

From what i've come across on my 87, the only clutch actuation components to be concerned about are the release fork and bearing. If only the bearing is bad, no big deal. Just get the new/updated bearing and new/updated guide tube and you're all set. If the fork is bad or breaks, then I think you're forced to do the cross shaft (holds the fork in place) update because I don't think the new fork works with the old shaft. The shaft update is a little costly.

Kurt! All guts?! The fact that it's a cabrio says glamour. What the heck do you need the headlight washers for? That's what your hand and a soapy sponge is for. Just giving you a hard time!

I didn't realize it at first, but my 87 came without the washers and I am glad. Those silly little sprayers are just one more thing to get in the way when you're trying to polish.

Almost bare bones is my 87. Sunroof (unfortunately), cruise, A/C (removed), F/R spoilers, 16 in. Fuchs and that's it. No LSD (unfortunately), no headlight or high intensity windshield tank, partial leather/vinyl seats, manual heat, no rear wiper....

Whoever set this car up was looking for a no frills 911- and it shows. Nothing fancy about my car, rather plain looking.

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Kevin
87 Carrera coupe

[This message has been edited by KTL (edited 07-19-2001).]

[ljonespwc]

The ultimate "all guts, no glamor" 3.2 just so happens to be an '88--the Club Sport. If it wasn't functional (and even if it was), the factory left it off the car. It took a little getting used to the "spartan-ness", but now I wouldn't have it any other way. Lance.

[Kurt B]

I'm just stirring up the pot
1) right, a cab ain't "all guts"
2) My headlight washers work, but aren't hooked up at the moment. Never used em.
3) Never use the windshield washers either..I mean, after I polish the car, there's nothing more satisfying than getting washer fluid all over everything...

But, I do think they should have left the top and seat mechanical...Otherwise, I'm just hassling you guys!


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Kurt B
1984 Carrera Cabriolet
911 Page
carrera_cabriolet@yahoo.com

[83cab]

83 cab is the way to go, no DME!!!! (bit I do have headlight washers)

[KTL]

The best 3.2:



Too bad it wasn't a US car.

Hey 83cab, what's wrong with the DME? If you had one, you wouldn't have to disconnect your O2 sensor to make it run better. SC world domination will never happen!


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Kevin
87 Carrera coupe

[Eric Coffey]

Thanks for all the info, this board has no equal!

Buck & KTL-

Do you guys have any suggestions on how to diagnose a failing clutch bearing? Were there any Warning signs before you had to replace yours? How much should I expect to pay to get that work done? Or is it a fairly straight forward "DIY" job? Thanks again guys!

-Eric

[ljonespwc]

Hey, Kevin, that's indeed a Club Sport, and I've got one (in the US). There were 21 imported to US in 1988--but they had a different insignia--a CS on the right front fender.

[88911coupe]

My 87 gave indications for MONTHS before it finally failed. Thank God it died in a parting lot and not shifting at 70 mph! The clutch pedal will drag and sometimes sort of catch then you'll hear a loud crack on the pedal won't hardly move. You must pull the engine and separate. There are many on the list that are capable of this but I am not one of them! It's best to fix everything possible "while your'e in there" Total bill on mine was +$3k but had lots of other things done, and it was a very reliable shop. (Louden Motorcars)
Email me directly if you want to know more.
Buck
88 Coupe

[KTL]

Lance,

Sorry, I should have been more specific. That car pictured is the euro Club Sport. Yours doesn't have the big, screaming Carrera CS decal, just the fender decal. Much more subdued- which I like. Don't ever scratch up/remove that fender decal. Porsche dealer says it's NLA! Have to get a big $$$ repro. I guess?

Eric,

I can't tell you what the impending failure feels like. I just did like Buck said and replaced all components while I was in there (when I pulled the drivetrain out). You have to pull the motor to do the clutch release bearing. You have to separate the motor and trans. to get at it. My only symptoms of any type of problem were a pedal that would clank/clunk at full pedal release. Turned out to be the clutch slave cylinder push rod sticking in the release fork and then popping out at the last bit of travel.

I can look up the cost of the parts I replaced if need be. Labor was free- me.

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Kevin
87 Carrera coupe