18" wheels on a '97?

[JFP in PA]

From our records, “Metal fatigue type cracks or splits in the metal, some around the suspension mount areas", on the worst one "there are significant cracks in the driver’s side forward bulkhead area, near with the rear chassis meets it.”

Of all the Boxster model years, 1997 is the one we see the fewest of, probably due to age and the fact there were not that many of them to begin with. Currently, our active customer base only contains a couple of them. To see two with metal fatigue failures out of such a small "sample" has to be considered unusual.

[keithl]

18s are fine on a '99 right?

[JFP in PA]

As of the '98 model, Porsche strengthened the rear of the car by using thicker gauge metal in the problem areas, eliminating the issue.

[jonnycool]

has anyone got pics of the mentioned failures?

[JFP in PA]

We didn't keep any as both the current and perspective owners where present during the PPI's.

[jonnycool]

Hmmm, good job I fitted 19's instead of those pesky 18's you mentioned!!

I have visions of the start of the 6 million dollar man...."we have separation.....I got a blow out......engines out......I can't hold it, she's breaking up...she's breakin..." lol

You can put 19 inch + rims on very nearly every car on the planet and all your worry will be is "I hope this **************** don't rub" put them on a 97 Boxster and all you worry about is can you fit all the parts that drop off in the trunk? if there IS a trunk!

Porsche "quality" is kinda getting old!

[jonnycool]

well I had a GOOD look round and I can't find anything on mine, although i've only done approx 3000 miles on my 19's, well in fact I've only done approx 5000 miles in the past 3 1/2 years!!! lol

Toys eh!

[JFP in PA]

Originally Posted by jonnycool

Hmmm, good job I fitted 19's instead of those pesky 18's you mentioned!!

I have visions of the start of the 6 million dollar man...."we have separation.....I got a blow out......engines out......I can't hold it, she's breaking up...she's breakin..." lol

You can put 19 inch + rims on very nearly every car on the planet and all your worry will be is "I hope this **************** don't rub" put them on a 97 Boxster and all you worry about is can you fit all the parts that drop off in the trunk? if there IS a trunk!

Porsche "quality" is kinda getting old!

When Porsche designed the Boxster, they were very concerned about weight. Unfortunately, the market’s desire for bigger wheels exceeded the capabilities’ of the metal thickness they originally choose. And this is not that uncommon in the automotive world; Nissan currently is recalling several model year Altimas because the all aluminum rear sub frame and cross members are breaking up for the same reason. “Fecal matter occurs”……even when you have some of the best engineering on the planet working for you.