PPI --> Massive failure. Turns out the 'receipt' for the clutch, IMS, suspension, brakes etc was an estimate for work never done.

The search goes on...

Second car heading in for a PPI on Wednesday morning. 2008 Cayman Base. Lets see if it's as good mechanically as it is cosmetically.

2008 Cayman still has the IMS but apparently less risk of failure. 2009 and on has no IMS. I had a 2001 Boxster base for four years but had a CEL due excessive camshaft deviation. I think if I had to do it again I would go with the 99 Boxster with the double row IMS or the 2009 with no IMS. I notice you are being patient and doing your due diligence. A good PPI is well worth it.

If I had to do it again I would have kept my 2001 Boxster base and spent the $5000 cdn and fixed it up. I am into an NC Miata now and likely will get an ND by spring. However I do miss the Boxster.

Unfortunately there are zero '09 caymans within 100 miles of me. The sole '10 is asking $14k more than the '08 (90% more) so it's not really an option. There is an '09 boxster I may look at if this cayman falls through, but I do prefer the hardtops.

My understanding is that with the 06-08 they mostly failed when tracked (especially long left hand turns caused oil starvation) and even then the failure rate was much lower than for the 01-05 cars (though non-zero).

The PPI is being done by Mirage in San Diego. They built the first Singer engines and I have a lot of trust in Jae the owner after my first PPI go round. I do hope to not have to do a third though as they aren't cheap.

Tomorrow I should be taking possession of the the '08 Cayman (base). meteor grey, full (black) leather, bi-xenon and premium sound, 18" wheel upgrade. 88k miles.

The PPI went well,

The bad - the oil had 3k on it. A tiny bit of glitter in it but nothing to worry about. Brake pads are ~50%. Rear discs will need to be replaced next time through. One engine mount is cracked. it has been repainted on the passenger side but no structural damage. Tires are slightly old and rears are 285 instead of the 265 spec'd.

The good - clutch is good. Water pump has ~18k miles on it. Drives well. No suspension issues at the moment. Interior is very good as is the paint.

Can't wait for tomorrow...

The '08 Caymans are beautiful cars, in my opinion. Hope it drives well for you! I went into my '99 Boxster blind, as I was there to see a 914, but left with my Little Runt Instead. As of now, warts and all, I wouldn't trade it for the world. My next P-car will either be a 914 or a well used Cayman.

And this thread is now officially ended. I have come to grips with my fear of the IMS and will endeavor to keep the oil fresh and the revs up.
https://drive.google.com/uc?export=d...o4Y5fN8JgNQ8gF

Hmmm, doesn't seem to have the picture...