ABS control unit replacement

[Jinster]

Recent events in my poor Boxster ownership experience led my Porsche mechanic to tell me that the ABS controller in my 97 Boxster is a goner. This is in addition to needing a possible tiptronic rebuild. Depressions aside, I will try to make something out of this if I can. Here is the thought:

Can the ABS controller replacement be DIY? It is located in the front trunk so it seems quite easy. Does anyone know the procedure? My mechanic mentioned the need to bleed the brakes.

Can the ABS controller be replaced with a newer unit? My 97 doesn't have any traction control. The later cars do, albeit with a different ABS controller (version 5.3 if I am not mistaken). Can the new ABS controller be installed, along with other addition components to add traction control?

[ar38070]

While you can probably change the controller yourself you wont be able to bleed it as the car needs to be in ABS mode to do so. You need a porsche computer to do that. Theoretically you can do it by installing it, drive the car, activate the ABS, then bleed the brakes again. I am not sure that I would like to try that.

[Loren]

ar38070 is correct, to bleed the ABS system you need to open the valves with a PST2 or PIWIS tester.

[Jinster]

ar38070 is correct, to bleed the ABS system you need to open the valves with a PST2 or PIWIS tester.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Thanks guys.

I could very well be wrong but from what I read from Mitchel's online manual, the ABS5.3 with TC needs to be bled with the PST2. The ABS5.3 without TC can be bled with the foot pedal method.

Can you please confirm that Loren?

Edited March 1, 2005 by Jinster

[Loren]

Well, bleeding the brakes on a car without TC can be done without a PST2. Bleeding the brakes is a little different than bleeding the control unit. I'm pretty sure if you are changing the ABS hydraulic control unit you need to open the valves to bleed the new unit - with a PST2 on all versions of ABS. Although you might be able to trigger the ABS relay (next to the ABS hydraulic unit) to open the valves by jumpering the right points.

[Tool Pants]

I know how to open those pesky ABS valves without any fancy equipment. :lol:

[Jinster]

I know how to open those pesky ABS valves without any fancy equipment. :lol:

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Awwww... Care to share, TP? :)