Boxster V8 project log

[Marc_986]

Then I had an appointment to get the car aligned. First try didn't work as the ignition lock failed on me (keeping the key spinning without engaging anything). I ended up taking the mechanism apart, removing the old grease and putting it back together. As a bonus I did put a new switch on it and the many subsequent starts are giving me confidence that it'll last a good while.

Second try for alignment now was a success. Rear wheels were within limits (one being on the edge) which was great to experience as I aligned it myself. The front was quite far off though and we put it back to spec. Resulting numbers:

Front left / right
Camber: -0deg 41' / -0deg 39'
Caster: 7deg 33' / 7deg 37'
Toe: 0deg 02' / 0deg 03'

Rear left / right
Camber: -1deg 08'/ -1deg 40'
Toe: 0deg 05' / 0deg 01'

Even though the left rear was on the edge of what we could do (toe link set to the extreme, than adjust the control arm to get the toe correct.) I see no reason to doubt the chassis. Knowing it has taken a hit at some point, this was the main thing I wanted to find out.

So with that out of the way, some experiences and things to work on (knowing it makes sense to spend more on it):
- The engine whine (see separate thread, will report any findings)
- It has some shake in the steering on light cornering. Could just be the tires so will swap them first.
- Feels like the engine mount is gone and I need an extra one for trial fitting the V8 in the wreck anyway.
- The car is very noisy inside (even more than outside...). So I guess the lack of engine bay insulation is not helping and the rear cover doesn't fit very flush. Need to improve a bit.
- All gears are functional (now I was able to test 6th gear on the 'new to me' gearbox). 1st gear is a bit hard to engage on downshifts, need to go really slow. Otherwise it synchronizes very nicely.
- AOS was a main issue. The car doesn't smoke anymore and it smells a lot better. Also pulls better in the revs.
- Seating position still is an issue and does make it less enjoyable to drive.

Anyway,. to be continued.