[RoninFL]

Hey there,

M96/21 - 02 3.2 Boxster S engine - posting here because I can't figure out how to post in the Boxster forum.

Should be the same answers for all M96 engines since mostly the same as 996...

So I bought an engine that had intermix & a Non-Porsche specific mechanic said blown head gasket. I figured cracked head & bought with that expectation.

Latte oil / no oil in coolant according to seller who did an engine swap on the car.

Engine turns fine - no issues

After stripping motor, I performed a leak down test with a basic Harbor Freight tester. 3 tests per cylinder & used a dowel in the spark plug hole to get TDC except on 1 / 4 there i used the Cam Lock tool. Obviously cold, but I can't exactly run the engine normal operating temps. Tested @ 98 PSI since the gauge said DON'T GO OVER 100 and wanted to leave a little wiggle room...

Average results:
- 1 - 7 PSI / 7.2%
- 2 - 2 PSI / 2.1%
- 3 - 3.5 PSI / 3.6%
- 4 - 5.5 PSI / 5.6%
- 5 - 2 PSI / 2.1%
- 6 - 7.7 PSI / 7.9%

Engine oil was drained for shipping, so I did put a squirt down each intake stack & 1/2 quart in filler day before I started hand cranking the motor & doing leakdown test.

So those #s look pretty good to me - all within spec according to some quick Googling.

The oil cooler was removed, so I can't pressure test it for a leak. The AOS / Plenum / Intake had Milky oil.

Am I crazy to think the Intermix was a failed Oil Cooler & the previous owner's mechanic completely misdiagnosed the head gasket when really heads are fine based on leakdown numbers??

Thanks for the help!
Ron