Help with Tough Decision (memoirs of a track newb)

[catchacab]

Glen,

I have been thinking about the Boxster, and although they have been tracked successfully for years there have are a number of  areas that can lead to engine failure in the 986/987/996/997 series.  The Rear Main Seal issue should be of little concern compared to these problems.

1. Intermediate Shaft failure (IMS) 

2. engine block failure generally confined to the 1998-9 model years

3. The oiling system is not a true dry sump, like their air-cooled brothers.  (After losing two engines due to this, I will only track a true dry sump engine, or one that has been tested like the 997 MKII engine) Air induction into the oiling system can lead to premature failure of your engine, fixes are available (deepened and baffled sumps (Brey-Krauss, Mantis), having additional oil pick up fabricated and placed.  There is also a problem with the oil/air separator.  Go to the Cayman Club and look up smoking caymen (especially at the track).

What is your source for a $3K engine replacement?  New replacement engines from PCNA I believe go for about $10-14K

I know that some find PCM and the inability to left foot brake a hindrance on the track.  A Cayman guy I know that club races has had problems with the ABS in his Cayman, and had to upgrade it to a Porsche Motorsport ABS unit. 

These are just some things that I have seen.  But still these water cooled cars can be successfully tracked, you just need to have all the information before making your decision.  I know you are active on RL, search and keep you eyes open there and ask a ton of questions, there is a lot of info to be found there, in addition to our local club.

I am not saying that the air cooled cars are better, trust me they do have their problems and limitations. 

Good luck in your search.

-Eric

PS If you want a cheap track car to purchase, but expensive to maintain, you can always buy a 944.  I know a guy who has one, it just needs an engine