lost all power… Help please..?

[particlewave]

Have you replaced the ignition switch recently?
I'd start there and disconnect/reconnect battery to get windows up.

Adding thoughts...
This behavior sounds exactly like a bad battery or connection. I went through something similar about a decade ago with my daily driver. Had the exact same symptoms when trying to start (clack from the starter solenoid, then the dome light and all electrics would die and not come back on until battery disconnected).
I replaced the battery, to no avail. After a few days of trouble shooting, I finally found a corroded ground cable. Replacing it fixed the problem, but I'd still start with your ignition switch as it's a known issue and fairly cheap at most auto parts stores.

[Gilles]

Originally Posted by particlewave

Have you replaced the ignition switch recently?
I'd start there and disconnect/reconnect battery to get windows up.

Adding thoughts...
This behavior sounds exactly like a bad battery or connection. I went through something similar about a decade ago with my daily driver. Had the exact same symptoms when trying to start (clack from the starter solenoid, then the dome light and all electrics would die and not come back on until battery disconnected).
I replaced the battery, to no avail. After a few days of trouble shooting, I finally found a corroded ground cable. Replacing it fixed the problem, but I'd still start with your ignition switch as it's a known issue and fairly cheap at most auto parts stores.

Particlewave,

I already order the switch from Sunset Porsche because Pedro (Pedro's garage) kindly advised that the switch on my car was different from the earlier switches, and Sunset mentioned that if I don't install it, it could be returned.

Someone on the Cayman site also recommended to check the cable that goes to the starter and another one at the "Y" by the firewall because (according to him), if the connection is loose you could fry the switch or the starter..

I will remove the engine cover and check these cables while the switch arrives.

The good news is that I got a trio of teenager musicians that were practicing next door to help me push the car back into my house (offer them a six pack), and with the windows closed I can relax and check the car at my own pace.

Also, on the Cayman site I read that replacing the switch is not too difficult (somewhere I read that before… LOL)

Thank you for your comments!

[dghii]

Originally Posted by Gilles

Particlewave,

I already order the switch from Sunset Porsche because Pedro (Pedro's garage) kindly advised that the switch on my car was different from the earlier switches, and Sunset mentioned that if I don't install it, it could be returned.

Someone on the Cayman site also recommended to check the cable that goes to the starter and another one at the "Y" by the firewall because (according to him), if the connection is loose you could fry the switch or the starter..

I will remove the engine cover and check these cables while the switch arrives.

The good news is that I got a trio of teenager musicians that were practicing next door to help me push the car back into my house (offer them a six pack), and with the windows closed I can relax and check the car at my own pace.

Also, on the Cayman site I read that replacing the switch is not too difficult (somewhere I read that before… LOL)

Thank you for your comments!

+1 aobut reading up on the DYI's for ignition switch. I've done it about 4 or 5 times now on various Boxsters and it is, in fact, not hard at all....after the first time!

I suggest reading up on doing the replacement through the AC vent. It sounds like alot of work but really makes the job a lot easier. Line up a short, jewelers flat head screw driver and you'll be good to go!

Actually though, while waiting for your ignition switch to arrive, you might want to look at and clean all battery and starter connections. Make sure to disconnect battery first!

Your starter is grounded to your motor by direct connection.

[Gilles]

Thank you all for the suggestions and comments, the switch will arrive tomorrow and I will be checking as well the connectors of the cable that powers the starter motor as well.

I just hope that is not something more sinister (.. pricey)

Regards,
Gilles