Using 996 DME for swap?
 

Hi folks,

Trying to research engine swap options for a '01 S.

All of the threads mention the DME, but none really specify what the needed 7.8 actually is. Can I just use the ECU from the donor 996 or is the 7.8 986-specific in a later year? Can't seem to find clarity there.

Anything else I should be aware of for such a swap?

7.8 is for 03/04 cars. pinout & wiring are different also

A few tidbits:
01 S uses DME 7.2.
As STL said, 03 and 04 986s use DME 7.8.
DME 7.8 and 7.2 harnesses are close, but not the same.
The fuel map/tuning of a 996 will not be correct for a 986.
DME 7.8 runs a later (different) variocam. The engine will need the correct DME to function, but a DME 7.8 can be adapted to a DME 7.2 based chassis. *ABS, cluster, and cruise control may need extra attention for full function.

I have an '04 2.7L engine that I may stick in an '01 this winter to figure out the details

Beater, what exactly are you trying to do? Swap an 03/04 motor into your 01?


Jon, do you have a piwis? When I did my 996 flash, I was able to push just the fuel maps over instead or rewriting my whole dme. For your project (and the OP's project, if that is what he is doing), that's where I would start since none of the systems in your car are canbus (7.8 is written for a canbus setup)

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I just grenaded my 01S. Looking at the cost of replacement engines and considering buying a wrecked auction 911 instead for the swap potential.

Not particular on year, so if there's any direct-drop in, I'm all ears to hear it.

'Generally' this info is pretty good as an overview: https://www.pelicanparts.com/techarticles/Boxster_Tech/11-ENGINE-911_Engine_Swap/11-ENGINE-911_Engine_Swap.htm

Because Porsche constantly updates things, you need to stay very close to your model year or you are going to be in for a lot of work. Fuels systems change, Vario Cam can be completely different, and even the way modules, sensors, and even the dash communicate moved from conventional wiring to CAN Bus technology in just a couple of years. Can the later stuff be converted? Yes, with a lot of work and $, anything is possible; but you end up with a Frankenstein car that no one else can work on, which totally kills resale values.