Help - Front Shock Replacement on 4wd 996

[syslim]

Hello,

I could really use some technical expertise on the replacement of the front shocks on my 996 4wd.

I already did the rear ones (not a big deal). My problem with the front shocks is that I can't physically get the front shocks out of the sleeve that anchors the bottom. DESPITE using spring compressors, it's just doesn't seem possible to get enough clearance because of the sleeve design Porsche used on the bottom of the front shocks (also apparently on the Boxters..

To get enough clearance, I think I have to drop the whole C-arm unit. This appears to be hindered by the axle??? Please see the photo I attached.



I have read all the forums that I could find on this website, and on rennlist. But either no one has my problem or there's a difference in the disassembly on the 4wd version compared to the 2 wheel drive version.

-Does anyone have any advise on how I should proceed?
-Do I need to disengage the front axle so the whole caliper unit can drop down?
-If so, do you know where these instructions might be posted.
-If not, do you know what I might be doing wrong?

Thanks,
-s

ps: This 8 hour job seems to have just turned into a 16 hour job.

[JFP in PA]

Yes, there is a difference. On the 4WD cars, the axle has to come out of the carrier before it can be removed from the car.

[syslim]

I was hoping this wasn't the case.

Can anyone please give me a run down of how to take the front axle out of the carrier for a 4wd 996?

Is this a quick job or a sonofa*****? Any additional tools needed?

Thanks for the help,
-s

[JFP in PA]

Yeah, there are some additional "bits and bobs" required. I'd suggest you invest in a copy of the new Bentley 996 hardcover manual; it is fully covered in the front suspension section........

[syslim]

Any chance someone can please give me an online pointer? Do I remove the front axle from the central housing or at the wheel unit?
Thanks

[JFP in PA]

Originally Posted by syslim

Any chance someone can please give me an online pointer? Do I remove the front axle from the central housing or at the wheel unit?
Thanks

At the wheel carrier. While you may be able to find some DIY info with a photo or two on any one of a number of Porsche forums, it would appear that you may be much better off obtaining a proprer service manual for the car, which has all the details, torque specs, and special tooling you may need to do the job correctly the first time.

Sometimes you just have to spend a little money to get the tools you need to do the job properly..........