986 top lug busted where pushrod attaches

[Lynxfish]

Hey everyone, I just joined the Forum as I recently got my first Porsche, a 2000 Boxster. I don't know why I waited so long, as I have owned an M3, an XKR, and a CLK 63 AMG. But this little non-s Boxster is more fun to drive them all of them put together. I really got it as a project car for my son, but it convinced me that I must shortly go out to look for a newer Cayman or 911. But that's a discussion for another day.

 

For now, I have to deal with one of the larger projects on this car. The top isn't functional and it was clear from the start the push rods were shot. That's not a big problem, as it looks like a fairly easy fix. However, thanks to this excellent Forum, I've identified the much larger issue. It appears the Magnesium lug on the driver's side (under b-pillar) where the ball for the push rod attaches has broken. Or at least that's what it feels like when I reach down there. I can feel the ball and lug intact on the other side so I'm pretty certain. So it really comes down to two questions: 1) is there any way to fix this short of replacing the entire piece  by removing the top and getting a new frame. I'm wondering if anybody has done any sort of jerry-rigged for it. 2) If not, I have read that the top will operate with just one push rod connected so it may be somewhat wonky. Do people know if that's correct?

 

Any thoughts or suggestions on this would be greatly appreciated. At 51 years old, I am sad I am so late to the Porsche game... I will definitely be making up for it now!

[wizard]

Yes, the Boxster is a superb car. I've had mine for 14 years now and it's still a joy to drive each and every time.

 

If you do a search, you'll find a wealth of information on malfunctions of the Boxster roof.

 

Maurice is the authority.

[Lynxfish]

Thanks wizard. I did read a bunch of.the discussions here regarding top issues. And while they are very helpful, I couldn't find anything which addresses what your options might be if that magnesium lug breaks off. 

 

Thoughts?

 

Thanks so much 

 

[mikefocke]

There is a thing called the PET which is a parts list with many diagrams including ones that show all the parts that make up the top mechanism. Found here. (The Porsche web site moves it around so if you look at this posting even weeks later, it may have moved.  Just search around the Porsche site.)  The 97-02 top mechanisms are different from the 03-04 ones.

 

There are many wrecked Boxsters in salvage yards from which used parts can be acquired. List of well known yards here.

 

Pictures help those trying to help you.

 

I haven't seen Maurice aka 1stchoir around in a while.

Edited November 27, 2016 by mikefocke