Shortlived Boxster engines survey

[Bayley]

2000 Boxster S with 58,000 dealership maintained miles at factory recommended service intervals.

Adult owned and never raced.



Suddenly a great motor swap candidate. *Always look on the bright side.

[mcdandc]

Well, I've had my 2000 s model for about 18 months, 107000 miles and no problems. Took her in for a check engine light last month (gas cap leak). Shop found several leaks and worn boots, so I asked for recommendations; IMS, clutch, and hoses, also plugs and other things. The sticker shock really hurt, but jumped in for the security.
During the IMS replacement, a few chips of plastic were noticed in the oil. The only plastic inside the engine were the upper chain guides, so the valve covers were pulled. One of the guides came out in two pieces and there was significant wear on the other, Shop was very happy that they had caught the problem before any severe damage to the engine, me too.
Working to pay off the bill ( 6500), but a happy camper.

[motorcity986]

I have a 2000 986 S. 43,000 flawless miles.
Had IMS/clutch proactively installed 50 miles ago at the Porsche dealer. Found no signs of old bearing failing.
50 miles later, check engine light, poor performance. Tapping/knock from engine as well. Flat bed in to dealer.
Found one of the cylinders flooded w/ fuel. At first, they thought a mass flow sensor. Nope. Dropped engine, pulled head.
2 of the 3 valve guides are sliding (can push out of cylinder by hand). Valve seat came off.
Car has never overheated or been abused.

Anyone ever hear of this happening? Nobody can figure out why???? Was there a flaw in the machining process, so sloppy fit for the valve guides?? Would it be this way on the other side?
And if so, did they find the same problem on the other cylinder head?
I am deciding if i need to have the other cylinder head pulled, dismantled and inspected while the engine is out of the car. Anothe $2000.00, so an important question.

My dealer says they have heard of this, but never seen one. I checked with an idependent Porsche mechanic. Same answer. I checked with the largest Porsche dealer in the country. Same answer. Is my car that unique?