Question on 60K Maintenance - 986 Forum - The Community for Porsche Boxster & Cayman Owners

John99Boxster · 12-01-2011, 07:58 AM

Im wrapping up my DIY 60K Maintenance on my Boxster. There are a few steps/requirements that I am a little unclear on. Thought maybe you guys could help?

Please keep in mind that I am new to the car and to doing any kind of work myself on past vehicles. So if it sounds like a dumb question, I apologize.

1. Axle joints: Check play, visual inspection of the dust bellows for signs of damage, check tightness of screw connections on the suspension adjustment at the front and rear

The part about "check tightness of screw conncections.....". Where am I looking for these connections. A picture would be great!

2. Particle filter: Replace filter element

Is this the CABIN FILTER??

Also, is there a DIY on changing the Differential Oil? (I know this is not part of the 60K maint.)

Thanks All.....

John

nylart · 12-01-2011, 09:40 AM

Yes the Cabin Filter is another name for the Particle Filter

thstone · 12-01-2011, 10:37 AM

Check the wheel hubs for free play by pulling/pushing on the wheel from the top/bottom, side to side (9/3 o'clock positions) and in/out. There shouldn't be any free play or clunking.

Visually inspect the rear axle and CV joint covers for wear, tears, or other damage. If damaged, water and dirt will get into the CV joint and cause problems.

Check all of the suspension mounts and bushings for play or wear. Check the suspension bolts for tightness.

The Boxster has a transaxle where the differential is integrated into the transmission. Thus, only the transmission oil requires service.

John99Boxster · 12-01-2011, 10:59 AM

ny...Thanks for clarifying.

thstone....Thanks for the detailed info. on what I am looking for.

I thought I read somewhere that you should change the diff. oil at some point....apparently I was mistaken...Thanks Guys

san rensho · 12-01-2011, 11:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by John99Boxster

ny...Thanks for clarifying.

thstone....Thanks for the detailed info. on what I am looking for.

I thought I read somewhere that you should change the diff. oil at some point....apparently I was mistaken...Thanks Guys

If its never been changed, I would certainly change the gear oil at 60k. Be sure to use Porsche oil only.

jcb986 · 12-01-2011, 11:35 AM

Differential oil change, why. I have torn into rear ends from all the big auto makers, even some of the 40's rear ends when I was building rods. I cannot remember taking one apart and seeing dirty oil. Remember, this unit is basically sealed and gets not engine combustion going into it. You could loose some oil if the seal is bad but that's about it.

JFP in PA · 12-01-2011, 12:31 PM

It needs to be changed. The gear oil, even a full synthetic like the factory fill, can shear down and fall out of grade, and the additive package degrades over time. Even those that felt they were not having any problems comment on how much nicer the gearbox shifts and how quiet the trans is after a drain and refill with the OEM lube.

John99Boxster · 12-01-2011, 12:35 PM

Ok...now Im confused!

Yes change the differential oil OR No do not?

If yes, does anyone know of a DIY?

Thanks

tonycarreon · 12-01-2011, 12:45 PM

Pelican Technical Article: Boxster Differential / Manual Boxster Transmission Fluid Change - 986 / 987

John99Boxster · 12-01-2011, 12:56 PM

My fault...I should have specified. I have the Auto/Tiptronic Transmission.

JFP in PA · 12-01-2011, 01:23 PM

This is a fun project; the Tip cars have a separate diff that uses a special oil (not ATF). To change it, you need to remove one of the diff side covers (there is no drain plug). A bit time consuming and messy, but definitely a DIY project............ Do a search, this has been covered before, I think with photos.

John99Boxster · 12-01-2011, 02:23 PM

JFP...looks like a fun DIY!!

Getting the fill plug out sounds like a bi*&. And removing a side of the diff. cover and possibly axle sounds like a lot to go through.

Could I use a Mighty Vac and suck the fluid out?

Also, what type of fluid/oil do you recommend?

JFP in PA · 12-01-2011, 02:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by John99Boxster

JFP...looks like a fun DIY!!

Getting the fill plug out sounds like a bi*&. And removing a side of the diff. cover and possibly axle sounds like a lot to go through.

Could I use a Mighty Vac and suck the fluid out?

Also, what type of fluid/oil do you recommend?

The diff oil is a full synthetic 75W-90 Hypoid gear oil. You will never get all the oil out with a suction system, pulling the side cover is the only way. The process is covered in the Bentley manual if you have access to one..............

milliemax · 12-01-2011, 04:06 PM

John, The cabin filter is next to the battery on the passenger side. One small bolt to remove the plastic cover. Filter is in full view ! Slide out and replace. I did it my self. Purchased at ********************************AZ part # 996 572 21901 list $50.53 Cost $ 13.07 free shipping Good luck ! PS Change that trans oil !!! Max

Gilles · 05-10-2012, 11:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JFP in PA

The diff oil is a full synthetic 75W-90 Hypoid gear oil. You will never get all the oil out with a suction system, pulling the side cover is the only way. The process is covered in the Bentley manual if you have access to one..............

JFP, I just sent you a PM
Thanks, Gilles