Front engine cover removal

[triguy46]

I've had the top cover off to change air filter and to nose around. Have read the DIYs on changing the serpentine belt and would like to open the front to inspect (2003 w/43K). Any trick to getting the front off? Can't see it mentioned anywhere. Top cover off first?

[ericinboca]

I've had the top cover off to change air filter and to nose around. Have read the DIYs on changing the serpentine belt and would like to open the front to inspect (2003 w/43K). Any trick to getting the front off? Can't see it mentioned anywhere. Top cover off first?

The thick carpet thing behind the seats comes off - it has 5 or soe of those flat plastic nuts along the top that need to be removed, and then it tucks in tightly on teh sides - you just pull it out.

Once that is off, you will see the panel that removes. there are 10 or so screws around the perimeter, and then two nuts right in the middle where the transmission cables pass through. all 10mm if i remember correctly

Move boths seats as far forward as possible and then lean them forward to get access to the panel.

[triguy46]

Gotcha. Thanks :D

I've had the top cover off to change air filter and to nose around. Have read the DIYs on changing the serpentine belt and would like to open the front to inspect (2003 w/43K). Any trick to getting the front off? Can't see it mentioned anywhere. Top cover off first?

The thick carpet thing behind the seats comes off - it has 5 or soe of those flat plastic nuts along the top that need to be removed, and then it tucks in tightly on teh sides - you just pull it out.

Once that is off, you will see the panel that removes. there are 10 or so screws around the perimeter, and then two nuts right in the middle where the transmission cables pass through. all 10mm if i remember correctly

Move boths seats as far forward as possible and then lean them forward to get access to the panel.

[jmatta]

Here's a couple of pics to help visualize...neither are my car, as I've never had the panel off.

Edited October 24, 2009 by jmatta

[triguy46]

I just did this an hour ago and inspected the serpentine belt. All is fine. Access is easy, thanks all.

[martialmedia]

I've had the top cover off to change air filter and to nose around. Have read the DIYs on changing the serpentine belt and would like to open the front to inspect (2003 w/43K). Any trick to getting the front off? Can't see it mentioned anywhere. Top cover off first?

It looks like we almost have the same car. Is that a Speed Yellow Boxster S? I just purchased a 2003 Speed Yellow Boxster S with 42,000 miles a few weeks ago. I thought I was special. ha.