Engine Whine and Trunk Lock Questions, 968 Cab

[Westy]

My 968 passed smog to day, so for now, it's all buttoned up and on the road. Happy times. But while putting about 60 miles on today, there is a distinct whine from the engine that parallels the RPMs. I don't remember this a few years ago. It sounds like a turbo spooling up and down as I accelerate and decelerate. Sorry, I still don't know these cars that well. Is this a normal sound from the motor?

Secondly, I don't know what I'd do if the trunk button or solenoid broke on this car. Apparently the keys on the Cab models wont open the trunk by design. Has anyone done anything about this? This is a crazy design, and I have no idea why it's designed this way.

[944 Ecology]

The whine is probably a balance shaft belt that is took tight.

As for the trunk release, read the following thread on rennlist:

https://rennlist.com/forums/924-931-944-951-968-forum/341746-help-968-cabrio-trunk-stuck.html

[Westy]

Sure enuff, that little wire is down there behind the vent. Thanx for that tidbit of info. Although I still don't see the logic in a key lock that is inoperative. I guess inquiring minds will always have to live oblivious.

So far as the balance shaft, I don't know enuff about them, except I'll have to crawl under there and take off the skid again. I'll do some research and see what I'm about to break!!!!! I did replace the alternator, too, so I guess it's possible the AC/alternator belt is too tight. Time will tell. Thanx for the response.

[thomasryan]

The key and the kick panel button operate a solenoid. There is a cable release for the hood/bonnet behind the drivers fog lamp.

[Westy]

Yup, I found that one a few weeks ago. Now I know where they both are. Might check out the solenoid numbers for a replacement and add it to my stash. I'll get some dry graphite cable spray and lube the cables up. One less worry. On to the gas cap $$$$$$$. Belts in a few weeks after vacation.

[Jfrahm]

The key on the cabrio will open the trunk but the microswitch that it engages sometimes fails. It's a common microswitch you can buy off ebay or wherever and splice into your wiring.

[azbanks]

My key opens the key to the trunk of my cab.

[Westy]

Originally Posted by azbanks

My key opens the key to the trunk of my cab.

Confusion. On another forum they said it doesn't, just like mine. So I see 3 options. I have something broken, hmmmmm, or there is a way to change the setup so the key works, or the 944s are different from the 968s. I'll keep on and see what I can find.

[Jfrahm]

I dimly recall my S2 cab had a mechanical link to the trunk latch but my 968s are all electronic. the key actuates a microswitch and that uses the same solenoid the under-dash button actuates.

Under dash requires the ignition to be on I think.

[Westy]

Originally Posted by Jfrahm

I dimly recall my S2 cab had a mechanical link to the trunk latch but my 968s are all electronic. the key actuates a microswitch and that uses the same solenoid the under-dash button actuates.

Under dash requires the ignition to be on I think.

This is the only logical explanation. Here's the scenario. You're having a BBQ and need to go out and get the stuff. So you got the ribs, and the chicken, some fixins and a couple of 12 packs. On the way out to the car it starts to rain. So you leave the cart at the back of the car, jump inside and start it. Hit the switch. Jump back out and open the trunk, stuff everything in there, then jump back into the driver's seat and head home. Nonsense. That keyed lock has to work. Don't know when I can get back in there, but I'll bet a wire is loose/broke, or the micro switch has failed.

Thanx Jfrahm

[Jfrahm]

Um, yeah fix it? They did not expect you to tolerate it not working.

[944 Ecology]

Here's the wiring for the rear hatch/trunk lid unlocking. I picked the 93 car as an example. Looks very similar to the 944 S2 arrangement with a microswitch on the key cylinder operating the unlock motor.

[thomasryan]

check fuse number 1. if its good, swap the relay with a similar working unit.

[jeff968]

Yes, 4 time 968 cab owner here. The ignition key opens the trunk. And even if the micro switch fails for the trunk lid you can open it by the button in the driver's foot well.

[Westy]

Originally Posted by Jfrahm

Um, yeah fix it? They did not expect you to tolerate it not working.

No need to be snarky. As I've explained several times, I'm on a learning curve here.

[Jfrahm]

Sorry I just do not see the point of complaining about the procedure you need to use when your trunk lock is not working. Yes it's inconvenient, so is a flat tire or a sprained ankle.