We Are First Settlers!

Noticed a fairly small oil leak (maybe a few tbsp) on my 2005 C2, and took it to Lufteknic. Turns out to be coming from the rear main seal, so the bearing needs to be replaced.

However while they had everything apart they checked the crankshaft and found some lateral play. This suggests that even if we replace the bearing, it will fail again later on, perhaps catastrophically.

The options seem to be:

• Minimum cost: Replace the bearing, sell the car fairly quickly (presumably to someone not reading this!).
• Maximum cost: Replace the whole motor, continue enjoying the car for many years to come.

Replacing the motor is definitely pricey, but a lot less expensive than finding another Porsche. Also, the car is in very good shape otherwise, so aside from the cost, replacing the motor seems to be a very reasonable course of action.

Anyone have experience with this issue?

Thanks,
b.

Beth,

Sorry to hear you are having this problem. While I'm guessing the Lufteknic guys gave you all the options, it might be worth discussing it with a couple of the other smart techs in the Tidewater area to see if they have any other ideas. In particular, the two who advertise in the HO, John Kopp at Racewerks and Lutzo at LMN.

Keep us in the loop.

Dave

Wow, Beth. I'd certainly pick up the phone early Monday and contact John Kopp at Racewerks for his opinion. 757-427-0742 John can help you think through the best options and/or any opinions shared in this thread. Sorry to hear, and good luck! Please let us know how you make out!

Dave, you're a hoot...like minds...we must have been typing at the same time...

I suppose there's one other option: fix the bearing and continue driving the rest of the season. If I'm very lucky it might last that long, and then I could replace the motor when it's more convenient to break it in. If I'm not so lucky though, I could be worse off than I am now.

As financial managers like to say, it all depends on your "tolerance for risk".

b.

I'm going with the replacement engine (which includes 2 yr unlim mileage warranty from Porsche). I'm pretty sure I'll have time to break it in before DE in September.

Thanks for all the input!
b.

All things considered, Beth, this is probably the best choice...fixed right, first time, with warranty. Best of luck, and feel free to call on me if you need help with the break in...lol.

Beth,

Did you go with the 3.8 engine?

Marco

No, decided to stick with the like-to-like swap. Simpler, cheaper... and it doesn't confuse my SCCA classification. (Priorities, y'know.

But I think I will take this opportunity to put in the iPod/USB dock. Doesn't seem so expensive now.

If you haven't decided on which brand iPod adapter, I'd recommend the Dension Gateway 500. It's by far the one that plays the nicest with Porsche's MOST system. If you have questions don't hesitate to ask, I've done it a couple of times.

Marco