Immobilizer relocation

[Fiddlebog]

This is an idea that I've thought about ever since I heard about the common problem of wet immobilizer units. I've (of course) seen the waterproof cases to help prevent immobilizer damage.
But why not just put the immobilizer somewhere other than in the bottom of the body: the most likely place for water to pool? Why not just put it next to the ECU, or tuck it up in the dash somewhere?
Now that I'm actually working on a Boxster that needs the immobilizer replaced, that's what I'm thinking about doing. Is there a reason I haven't seen anybody else do this?
Maybe I'm just bad at searching.

[piper6909]

I've read about others thinking about doing it, but never of anyone actually doing it. Probably because it's easier said than done, when you consider you'd have to extend the wiring harness.

You can go with the $100+ plastic box or keep your drains clean.

I opted for keeping the drains clean and, in case water gets in anyway, I drilled a hole in the lowest point of the floor plan and put in a drain tube. That should keep water from getting to the immobilizer.

[Fiddlebog]

Well I'll give it a shot and report back, then. In my opinion, extending wires has always been an easy task.
The plastic box has always seemed an expensive option to me. I've never messed with my drains (I probably should), but I keep my Porsches in a garage anyways.
I think I'll keep my daily stock, though.

[piper6909]

Originally Posted by Fiddlebog

The plastic box has always seemed an expensive option to me.

Agreed!

[Paul]

Will be interesting to see whether this improves or reduces the range of the key remotes.

[piper6909]

Originally Posted by Paul

Will be interesting to see whether this improves or reduces the range of the key remotes.

It shouldn't make any difference. afaik, the're an antenna wire running from the immobilizer up to the a-pillar, or thereabouts.

[particlewave]

I’ve considered it, but with so many wires to extend, it wouldn’t be worth my time.

I put my immobilizer in a perfectly sized Tupperware container and keep my drains clear.
Much easier

[Riggsbie]

Hi everyone,

Is there a link for a waterproof immobilizer link ?

Never seen one and only in my first year of Boxster ownership

Thanks !

[particlewave]

Originally Posted by Riggsbie

Hi everyone,

Is there a link for a waterproof immobilizer link ?

Never seen one and only in my first year of Boxster ownership

Thanks !

https://www.ecudoctors.com/products/waterproof-case-for-porsche-boxster-911-996-immobilizer-alarm-clu-computer

[rexcramer]

I wonder if lengthening the wires might create an issue in that the longer wires will have a slightly higher resistance? The $150 for the ECU box or PW's Tupperware box seem to be the better route to me. Although it never rains in So Cal.

[Riggsbie]

Thanks for the link....

Looks like a nicely molded part, I bet they don’t ship to Australia.... that’s often a challenge...

Have a good weekend

[mikesz]

I bought one of those water tight cases haven't used it yet. I got a Tupperware thing and plopped it in there under my seat. About the only water my car sees is when I wash it so not too worried about it.

[itsnotanova]

Almost all race guys move there immobilizer up under the dash. Granted they only have to extend a few wires. I've always thought about extending it up against the firewall under the carpet. It's not that far and could be tucked up inside the hollowed out carpet.

[piper6909]

Or you can drill a hole and use one of these drain tubes...

[Bill Ladd]

Cool. Where does one purchase that drain tube?

[piper6909]

Originally Posted by Bill Ladd

Cool. Where does one purchase that drain tube?

It's from a 911 headlight bucket. Part number 911.631.259

Pelican sells them and so do other sites.

I sent you a PM

[JFP in PA]

Believe it or not, Amazon has them as well under URO Parts 91163125902 Headlight/Taillight Bucket Drain Tube

[Bill Ladd]

Sweet. Thanks!

[Brian in Tucson]

Originally Posted by Bill Ladd

Sweet. Thanks!

Never cut wires! Never!:dance: