retangular clear plastic window piece (over the pollen filter)

[Sputter]

I'm looking for the part number for it. Any ideas what it's for?

Thanks,

Jim

[Tool Pants]

I knew the part number 9 years ago when I bought my 1997, because it was missing. I was going to order one but back then the parts computer was screwed up and had it listed for something like $112. That got fixed and it was like $3.

Never ordered it. Half the cars I have seen over the years have it missing. Back then I asked the mechanics at the local dealership if they removed them for some reason during service, and they said no. If you look through the rectangle hole you can see the VIN. I have searched cars that were missing them and never found it.

[Sputter]

That would make the most sense since the panel is vented and the plastic window wouldn't prevent water from getting under it.

So having vin access without having to remove the panel is the best guess.

Thanks man,

Jim

[Tool Pants]

I was at a Porsche event today and one of the Boxsters still had this elusive plastic window. So I took pictures for prosperity.

What is strange is that when you look in PET on the 986 side it does not show up. You have to look on the 996 side of PET to find it. Retail is $3.27. Porsche calls it a "cowel panel cover."

Still do not know why they sometimes go missing since it takes some effort to remove it. Too big to fall into the water drains. Must disappear in a black hole.

I removed it for the second picture so you could see the part number.

[Sputter]

Cool, thanks TP. The next time i'm ordering small bits i'll be sure to get this replaced :-)

Jim

[air3bwm]

I know this is an old thread, but I can solve the mystery.  The window is NOT original to 97, 98 & 99 cars.  The front cowl water drain system was changed in MY2000.  The window was added to prevent leaves, pine needles, etc from entering the cowl area.  Porsche issued TSB 5093 to modify 97-99 cars to the new system.  It adds the window (996 572 661 00) and 2 water drain sleeves (999 703 484 40).  See the TSB for detailed instructions.