I've caught the bug!

[RobZ]

I'm new to this forum and pretty much caught the bug a couple of weeks back. My wife was due any time so we needed to do some walking. We thought looking at fuel efficient cars would be fun and let us do some light walking. I stumbled across an overpriced three owner '06 Cayman and this '02 Boxster (2.7) with 48k miles. I already have a couple of family vehicles so a two seater convertible would work for daily driving to work (within five miles from my house). My last side car was a red Jaguar XK coupe and it was a blast to own (what a head turner!). It had all of the XKR details except for the engine. Anyway, I went home with the Porsche and a new baby boy within a 48 hour period. I stumbled across this forum and went to work.

Here's what Ive done so far:

-new wheels & tires, 18x8.5 and 18x10 w/ 225/40ZR-18 and 275/35ZR-18 Dunlops

-debaged

-desnorkled

-painted brake calipers (red)

-bumper plugs

-de-ambered front sides

-a bit of basic servicing: filters, wipers, etc. and detailing

I'm planning on changing the buperettes, adding H&R springs, possibly adding rear 1/2" spacers, and a few other things in the next few weeks. I'm debating getting a Zeintech top but for $5k and a bit of work to get on and off, I'm not convinced.

Here's some pics. Being a new owner I'd appreciate any and all advice, suggestions, comments, etc. Thanks.

[RandallNeighbour]

Very clean looking boxster, but that baby's FAR better looking!

Congrats on both.

BTW, lowering springs also require some rather expensive adjustable toe arms in the back to correct what lowering does to one's RAPID rear tire wear $$$$. Budget that in as well.

http://www.tarett.com/items/boxster~cayman-products/996-986-987-rear-t-control-arm-pr-996tlnk-detail.htm

[RobZ]

Thanks for the compliment and advice. I wasn't aware of the need for adjustable toe arms. I don't know if a 1" drop will be worth the expense. What is a reasonable cost for H&R springs, adjustable toe arms, and install?

[RandallNeighbour]

Springs cost about 350, you've got the price on the toe arms from the link above, and it will take a mechanic about 2-2.5 hours per corner to do the work at $100 an hour.

It's a lot of money for a 1 inch drop if you're not tracking the car and trying to shave seconds off your times.

It also provides a rather harsh ride according to others if the roads on which you drive are pot hole laden.

[70Sixter]

ROBZ,

Don't worry about having the bug. It'll pass. When you die. Maybe.

And the last picture of the best life accessory bug prolly won't ever pass.

BTW the factory hardtop is a very nice unit. Easy on/off. I love mine. It is a good time to look as some will sell theirs in summer.

[Jeph]

OH how excellent. A human child. Good for you!

Take the car to the track! Have fun with it.

De-amber the tails and go for the Litronics up front.

[kbrandsma]

Don't forget to upgrade the sound system!

KBrandsma

[Dr. Kill]

Congrats on your baby boy. Fatherhood is even better than Porsche ownership (that is saying a lot in my opinion).

Congrats on your new purchase as well and welcome to the forum (this forum can be a bug in and of itself.)

[RobZ]

Originally Posted by kbrandsma

Don't forget to upgrade the sound system!

KBrandsma

This was going to be a first on my list. The factory audio is better on my wife's Nissan Quest . Seems like it's a bit tough to really upgrade though. Any links to good info or maybe an upgrade package?

[Quickurt]

Originally Posted by RobZ

This was going to be a first on my list. The factory audio is better on my wife's Nissan Quest . Seems like it's a bit tough to really upgrade though. Any links to good info or maybe an upgrade package?

The sound of my 3.2 behind the seat beats any CD I've ever heard!!

Hold your son high, there's nothing else to compare.
Nice '02 box and I LOVE the doors on your house.

[RobZ]

Originally Posted by Quickurt

The sound of my 3.2 behind the seat beats any CD I've ever heard!!

Hold your son high, there's nothing else to compare.
Nice '02 box and I LOVE the doors on your house.

Thanks. The house was last years "project"

[fragdude]

sorry to stray off topic a bit, but I just glanced at the rear tires on your box. and it got me a-wonderin. Does anyone know how wide the rear tires are on a 2002 Boxster S with the standard 17 inch rims (in inch.)?

[RobZ]

I had to take the car in for PDR (paintless dent repair) today. A large (around 8") crease somehow appeared on my right rear quarter panel. Pissed me off! It was either an A-hole with an extremely powerful door or a grocery cart.