Tiptronic-Manual front bumper covers interchangable?

[coakguy]

I have hunted but can't find a previous post on this subject. Just bought a 01, 996 cabriolet with a Tiptronic trans. It was previously dinged (accident) on front end The car then had a questionable repair done. I am told the wrong bumper was installed which is apparent because the middle opening on the new (used) bumper is covered. Question. Are the bumpers from a manual trans and a tiptronic trans the same except for the middle cover or if they are different, can they be interchanged with reasonable modifications? Thanks from Colorado.

[Loren]

As your topic appears to be a DIY question (rather than a DIY Tutorial), we have moved it to the appropriate forum.

This is an automatically generated reply.

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[Loren]

No real differences other than the blocked off opening. As a matter of fact if you decide to add the 3rd radiator it makes it easy as you just knock out the plug.

[coakguy]

I was told the tiptronic had its own cooler or 3rd radiator that came stock. Was I misinformed?

[Loren]

In a Tiptronic car yes their is a 3rd radiator that cools the transmission.

If you take that same spot in the bumper and put in a GT3 radiator (with the proper hoses) you add cooling to the engine. See my 3rd Radiator DIY Tutorial here.

BYW... my factory aerokit 996 came with the plug in the center of bumper (see the DIY again).

[coakguy]

Since it is a Tip, there must be a center radiator hiding behind that plug, which should be removed. No special ducting required?

[Loren]

Since it is a Tip, there must be a center radiator hiding behind that plug, which should be removed. No special ducting required?

Oh... ok I did not see your car is a Tip.

Yes, should be a radiator and a special duct - if there is not then it was a bad repair.

[coakguy]

Thanks loads. Nice for guys like me (that are new to Porsche) to get straight information.

Edited June 10, 2012 by coakguy