Test drove a 997: need some advice

[Marlon Targa 86]

I have started my quest for a 997.

Today I test drove this 997.1 2005 Carrera.

THIS IS THE CAR

First question: when I tried to shift into first, sometimes it wouldn't go in. I had to pull the shifter back to neutral and then try again. It wasn't grinding or anything, but I felt resistance. Is that normal?

Second question: the shifts never felt clean, meaning I always felt little "clicks" while shifting into gear. Is that normal?

Thanks,

Marlon
__________________
Targa 1986 - Kumho ECSTA SPT Tires - Seine Gate Shifter - 47K miles

[Fishman7]

Marlon,
I have an 06 and have the same resistance going into first, after my car is driven a bit it does seem to get better. Make sure you get a good PPI and I would wait to see if you could pick up a Carrera S instead.....there are a lot of great cars out there. Basic maintenance is very easy to do and I do it all myself. Good luck.
Eric

[yvesvidal]

Marlon,

If I may say so, go for the S type instead. You can find them for slightly more money (not by much) but you will enjoy the car ten folds more.

On my 2006 C4S, the shifting even in first gear is clear, crisp and precise. The control is done by cables, and they may need some lubrication. As the gear box warms up, shifting should become more precise and reliable. Also, with the torque available on these engines, shifting in 1st is rarely done, except at a red light.

Yves

[Mark Howard]

I have the same problem, except with 1st and 2nd gear. When it is cold, it is worse, with almost having to force it into 2nd gear. As the car warms up it gets better, but not to my liking. I've only had the car about 2 months, but I am about to bring it to the dealer for a look see. A 997 with 20K miles should not feel that way. I bet the slides and synchros are worn from in city driving...so I am preparing myself for a $$$$ repair. I'm sure the dealer will say "as long as we're in there, you need a clutch" and I'll replace that too.

Any idea on the cost of a clutch job?

[yvesvidal]

Before plucking down thousands of dollars with your local Porsche dealer, I would try the RED LINE oil for gearboxes. Agreed, it is not cheap, but infinitely less than what you will pay at the Dealer.

I have used that oil in all my gearboxes, on all my previous BMW cars (E30 M3, 540's...etc) and cannot comment how good it is and how it improved the behavior in cold weather.

I cannot believe that a 20K miles car would have such issues with a manual transmission.

Yves

[yvesvidal]

Originally Posted by Mark Howard

so I am preparing myself for a $$$$ repair. I'm sure the dealer will say "as long as we're in there, you need a clutch" and I'll replace that too.

Any idea on the cost of a clutch job?

Mark, since the engine and trammy will be down, you should have them change the rear main seal as well. A new clutch disk is about $700.00 if my memory is still good.

Yves

[Palum6o]

Marlon and Mark, have there been any updates on the issues you pointed out? I know these shifters are cable. Volkswagen had the same technology with their VR6 engines. Not sure at all if the design is similar, but there was a coupling where the cables connected to (4 cables: 2 for up and down, 2 for side to side), that moved the linkage connected to the transmission. I almost crapped myself when I couldn't get into gear at all - and it turned out that it was the coupler that became lose and had to be adjusted. The transmission was fine. I am curious if this is the same situation you have..

[Mark Howard]

Sorry I have not checked in for awhile. Slight change in my situation. With the warmer weather in Louisiana the last couple weeks, my shifting woes have gotten better, but not to my satisfaction. 1 st and 2 nd still are troublesome and not to my liking. Even had a little grinding into 2nd the other day. If these shifters are cable as mentioned, this could explain a few things. I need to get her into the dealer for a look see, just been short on time.

[BYprodriver]

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