OBC Steering Column Installation - CONFUSION!

[dyerhaus]

I could use a little advice here. I've got a 4-post steering column that I want to install on my 986 Boxster to get my OBC functionality. According to Pelican Parts and multiple forums, I need to get these two parts from Porsche: 999-650-056-40 - Connector, 999-650-057-40 - Connector Cover and these two parts from VW: 000-979-009 - Connector wire and pins for stalk, 000-979-010 - Connector wire and pins for cluster.

Once I have these parts the instructions indicate to make a wire harness out of them.

My local VW dealer didn't have them in stock, but they've been ordered. Porsche, on the other hand, shows that both part numbers have changed to a single part number. Unsure if it's the right part, I ordered it anyway.

I'm wondering if anyone knows the correct parts that should be ordered. But, really, I'm baffled as to why Porsche doesn't have a singular part number for the whole thing? If you bought a Boxster from Porsche with the OBC option, did it not come with the proper wiring harness? Did Porsche themselves buy parts and splice them together to make a wiring harness for their own car?

It's all so frustrating!

I was really hoping someone could clear this up as to exactly what parts are needed, especially since the part numbers have changed and possibly the parts themselves.

Cheers!

[Richard Hamilton]

The wiring loom in the car is made for the vehicle as specified on the original order. If OBC wasn't specified, then the wires aren't included. What you are doing is making up a patch cable, which Porsche don't make.

The connector and cover are made by several manufacturers (BMW, Mercedes, etc) and Porsche buy them in. That's why the part number changes. The cover isn't really necessary, as the connections are well insulated without using it. It helps a little to ensure correct mating of plug and socket, but not much. I suspect that the latest supplier doesn't make a cover, or it is integrated into the connector.