BVDP

I'm a little embarrassed to ask but I'm going to do it anyway . I need to replace the starter of my Cayman 987.2 2.9 from 2011. I have already found enough information on this forum about replacing the starter. The problem is that I cannot immediately find out how to remove the engine cover . I've searched a lot but I can't find any DIY with YouTube videos. I don't want to pull on everything with the chance that something will break off. I usually work on older cars and am therefore not used to clogged bolts and plastic. Hence the question..

regards, Bart

old man neri

There's two covers. One on top and one behind the seats. You basically pull/pry the carpet cover off to expose the metal cover. Then you as T30(?) to remove the screws holding the cover one.

Go to 1:56 of this video. I would link it directly but this forum is quite silly when it comes to youtube links.

BVDP

I didn't expect it to be that simple. Thank you.

ehokana

Be ready to do it if you live in California. I've had at least three smog test guys telling me that they could not do the test if they could not visually inspect the top of the engine. One wanted to charge me to disassemble part of the trunk and interior to do the inspection - apparently not knowing how to get to the top of the motor the easy way...

dxrohanx

Interesting! I was prepared to do the same for my smog test a few months ago in NorCal and only had the carpet off on arrival. The tech said he just needed to plug into the OBD port. TBH I was concerned about potential questions about the UAOS (which I've read other members have had to explain) but we didn't even get that far. He did use a mirror to check exhaust condition (or perhaps to spot the cats). I'll continue to carry the torx bit to the appointment just in case given your experiences @ehokana . Thanks!

Mansu944

yeah, they pull this **** at some of the dumber shops. What do they expect 991’s to do in a few years when they need to get smogged?

vitaminC

Having to show the engine would be really fun with a Boxster. Fortunately the place I go does not make that request. And if they did I would go elsewhere.

ehokana

Funny that my sport exhaust did not even warrant a question. Just needed the emissions tag on the engine cover, and apparently view the intake. I'm still trying to figure out what the air filter on the intake matters, but that's California for ya

iflyjetzzz

You CAians are Idiocracy incarnate. Fix your government.

ClemCLone

There is a way to get at the 3rd starter bottom bolt without using a long set of ratchet extensions to get at it front the front of the engine, most YT vids describe.

You'll need to separate the 2" Oil Filler tube. There is a 1/2" wide 'horse shoe' collar on the tube. Spread the bottom openings and it will come off. You can then separate the tube, but be careful. If your car is old, like mine, these plastics are brittle and don't take to a lot of movement until they crack. Found out the hard way replacing the AOS


Separated tube and bottom bolt

Also, with the battery disconnected, you'll need to access this starter/alternator connection back of the firewall. This is a known area that can cause high resistance. Remove the nut, clean all parts and re-assemble, making sure this connection is tight.