Creaking Noise Inside Dash

[cyclocross]

Hi, all. My 2001 2.7L Tip has had a creaking noise coming from the center/right side of the dash. It sounds like two pieces of metal clicking/rubbing against each other. The sound only occurs when the car is travelling over an uneven surface or when turning from a level surface to an inclined surface, like my driveway (causing the chassis to flex). It does not matter if the car is turning or travelling in a straight line. I don't think it is a steering or suspension problem because it does not occur over normal bumps.

One dealer told me there is a "tube" running across the dash that sometimes is installed under stress (twisted) at the factory. The fix is to remove the dash to get access to the tube, remove the tube, fill it with foam, and wrap it with felt. Reinstalling the tube also destresses it.

Another dealer says that the tube is accessible without removing the dash. It can loosened and then be destressed. This dealer performed this repair and it worked for a few days. The creak now has returned.

This is my fourth trip to a dealer and I want to see if I can cure it myself.

Question: The "tube" appears to be p/n 996 552 191 00, knee protection strip. It bolts to p/n 996 552 061 02, retaining frame. How do I remove the leatherette knee bolster to access the tube? I want to add some felt where the tube touches other metal parts. Thanks for your help.

[cyclocross]

Hello, out there. Does anyone else have this problem? Any suggestions (other than getting a new Porsche)? TIA :help:

[Loren]

Did you have a look at TSB 1/00 7018 Noises In The Dashboard Area (dated 6-30-2000). It has 8 pages of noise fixes...

[cyclocross]

Did you have a look at TSB 1/00 7018 Noises In The Dashboard Area (dated 6-30-2000). It has 8 pages of noise fixes...

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Thanks for the tip, Loren.