Camshaft deviation out of spec - next steps?

[DMage]

Been diagnosing an issue with a P1115 and P1130 CEL, and Durametric has been helpful with all of that. However, I feel that Durametric could also be a ‘too much information’ type tool - as now I am worried about everything! Seem to fix one thing, and then find something else right behind it!

2000 Boxster S, 83k miles

When I first ran the Durametric several days ago, I checked cam deviation. I was -6.77 in pos 1, and -5.73 in pos 2. I know specs are +/- 6. Test was done at idle on a cold engine warming up.

Ran the other day after a spirited run, and I was -7.19 in pos 1, -5.91 in pos 2. Again taken at idle, but fully warm this time.

Checked it again this morning, pos 2 was still at -5.91, yet pos 1 started at -7.14, then went up to -8.14, then down to -7.69, then to -7.64. This is over the course of 15 minutes while the car warmed up. Pos 2 did not change.

Is this the ‘bouncing around’ I’ve heard about that signifies an IMS impending failure? It wasn’t rapid, but a slow increase and decrease. I had just changed the oil 300 miles ago and there was no debris in the stock filter. Pulled the filter again yesterday and nothing in it. Have not dropped the oil tray yet. IMS is on the list at this point anyway to do soon.

From other things I’ve read, it could be the variocam pads, or tensioners, or a sensor. Guess I am just trying to identify what my immediate next step should be?

I was thinking start with the IMS, and check timing in the process. If timing is off, I was going to follow these instructions to reset. I do have the locking tools available also (already have the IMS install toolkit): DIY: Setting Cam Timing on M96 - 986 Forum - for Porsche Boxster Owners and Others

Need to do some additional reading in the manuals, but, also looking for advice / input on next steps or thoughts on the cam deviation #’s. Thanks!

[JFP in PA]

You should never measure cam deviations on a cold engine. Take the car for a 20min. ride and check it when you come back.

[DMage]

Readings on July 3rd after a 30+ minute drive:

-7.19 in pos 1, -5.91 in pos 2


Readings on July 4th after a 30+ minute drive:

-7.16 in pos 1, -5.84 in pos 2

[JFP in PA]

#1 is out of spec, #2 is close to being out. As yours is a five chain engine, probably the small wear pads between the two cams on each cylinder head.

[DMage]

What I was thinking also. So...

Porsche Boxster Camshaft Upgrade / Chain Tensioner Replacement - 986 / 987 (1997-08) - Pelican Parts Technical Article

And...

2000 Porsche Boxster S Convertible - Camshafts & Timing Chains - Page 2

Qty 2 of 996-105-253-00


Figured I'd wrap this all into a RMS, IMSB, Clutch, Flywheel, and AOS overhaul.