Project Cayman GTS 4.0 – Introduction

The Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI)

When investing in a car at this level, a proper PPI isn’t just recommended – it’s essential. I’m not talking about a quick lift inspection, but rather a comprehensive 6-8 hour evaluation. Through the 718 forum, I found Autoscope of Plano, TX (where the car was located) highly recommended. Their inspection covered everything: brakes, battery, A/C, paint thickness measurements to verify original panels, and even PPF condition assessment. Crucially, they discovered the brake fluid’s water content was high, contradicting Porsche’s claim of recent service. While no PPI can guarantee perfection, this level of scrutiny provides substantial peace of mind.

Paint thickness measurements revealed consistent readings across panels, confirming original paint and proper previous repairs.

Previous Owner’s Modifications

The first owner made thoughtful modifications that enhanced the car’s character without compromising its integrity. The Soul over-axle pipes eliminated the particulate filters, improving sound quality and adding modest power. The owner plugged vacuum lines, keeping the PSE sports exhaust valves permanently open. The dealer-installed track pack PPF protected the front third, lower rockers, and side vent intakes. A GT4 short shifter from Suncoast parts tightened up the gear changes.

The GT4 short shifter upgrade provides more precise gear engagement and shorter throws, enhancing the manual transmission experience.
Small details like the sun visor air bag warning covers add subtle personalization while maintaining the factory aesthetic.

The red overboost button sticker (a nod to the 911) and subtle sun visor covers maintained the interior’s clean aesthetic. A dashcam rounded out the practical upgrades.

The drive mode selector offers distinct personalities – from comfortable daily driver to sharp-edged sports car at the twist of a dial.

5 comments

  1. I’m excited to see what you do with this build! Agree on the rear being too heavy on the emblems; just ‘GTS’ looks much cleaner. I very briefly looked into doing the Android Auto hack, but it was a bit past my comfort level. I’ve never used AA before, so no big loss to me, I make due with the phone in a phone holder for navigation purposes. I didn’t realize the previous owner already installed the GT4 shifter. It is really really good and there is no NEED to upgrade beyond it. Based on my Numeric upgrade experience, it needs the upgraded cables too in order to make a significant difference over the GT4 shifter.

    The 4.0L, NA, flat-6 will probably go down as one of the best engines made. And there’s a big chunk of power in it that Porsche bottled up so as to not infringe on the higher trim and model cars.

    1. Thanks so much for all your help buddy! It’s really a dream come true.

      I’m happy to help potentially brick your PCM anytime you’re ready ;-).

      I’m looking forward to those future upgrades too!

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