2002 C2 - Which is the right starter?

[Michael Whitney]

Hi All -

I just started my first project on my new-to-me 02/2002 build date 996 carerra 2, replacing the starter. The old one works but cranks really slow and worse when hot. Battery and alternator check out fine on a load tester at the parts store.

Picked up a new reman Bosch SR0429X from Advance Auto. This is the starter on Bosch's website as correct for a 2002 C2, C4, and Turbo. Also if you just google "2002 Porsche 911 starter" and look at any of the links, this is really the only style being sold.

Went ahead and pulled my old starter, and found that it looks like this (but dirtier of course).

This is obviously a SR0808X which is speced for the earlier cars thru 2001. I measured, there is no chance that the long-nose one I was sold will fit. And besides, there is no hole inside the trans for that long shaft to engage ... not to mention that this starter turns the opposite direction. So what's it for? Turbo?

I have already put in an order for a starter for an older car which should , I'm just really curious what is going on Either:

1. Bosch, Advance Auto, Autozone, and the 20 other places I checked have the wrong started listed, or

2. It is the right part and Porsche used up old stock thru 02/02 (hard to believe since it spins the wrong way and doesn't fit), or

3. Someone swapped in an old-style trans at some point in my car

Anyone know the story on that long-shaft starter?