996 turbo intrument clusters interchangeable?

[mat59]

Hi,

Starting a new thread due to the direction of my 'oil level indicator not working' thread changing.

I've recently tried installing a 2005 turbo cluster into my 2002 turbo. Both part numbers are identical. Both clusters look identical with the exception of the 2005 cluster having 'Turbo' written on the rev counter dial. However, my Porsche dealer cannot get the 2005 cluster to work fully in my 2002 when they tried coding it to the car. Specifically, the rev counter and speedo don't work. Everything else does.

Either,

A - I've bought a duff 2005 cluster.

Or

B - Although the two clusters have identical part numbers, the 2005 cluster is not compatible with the 2002.

Any thoughts?

[KevinH90]

Here's a link to instructions for programming a 996 cluster.  http://www.renntech.org/forums/tutorials/article/377-programming-a-carrera-instrument-cluster-for-transplant-to-a-boxster/

 

While these instructions were specifically written for coding a 996 cluster to work in a 986, they discuss the inner workings of the cluster program.

 

I don't claim to be an expert on this, but I suspect that the Porsche service tool that your dealer is using cannot access all of the code that needs to be changed.  Although it is not something the dealer would be willing to do, you could copy the code from your cluster to the new cluster and see if it would work.  The instructions in the link tell you how to do it. If you can find someone in your area with experience programming an EPROM chip, you should be able to get it to work unless the cluster is defective.

 

Good luck.

[mat59]

Thanks Kevin,

I had an official Porsche dealer attempt to code the replacement cluster to the car. Therefore, I would have thought they had the appropriate tools and knowledge to do this!?

[KevinH90]

The information in that DIY document was developed by an electronics hobbyist and is not standard Porsche technical service bulletin information.  You can read more about how this was developed on the 986 Forum:  

http://986forum.com/forums/general-discussions/43017-carrera-gauge-swap.html

and another thread showing a cluster similar to yours' here: http://986forum.com/forums/general-discussions/52581-996-c4s-cluster-install.html

 

Unless you run into a particularly adventurous Porsche technician, I don't think a dealership will do this for you.

 

You need to either:

1. Take the plunge and purchase the equipment to do it yourself - several folks on the 986 Forum did, or

2. Find an electronics shop that can program an EPROM (Erasable Programmable Memory) chip.  

 

I see that you are in Dubai, so I'm not sure what resources are available to you.  Maybe a computer repair shop can help you.

 

I think it can be done, but you just need to find the right person.

 

Cheers,