I just purchase my first Porsche in December, so I'm about to embark on my first engine mods ever. I had only done cosmetic mods to past cars. I already purchased AWE cats and plan to purchase AWE headers, GIAC software (probably GIAC) and the EVO V-flow intake from Sharkwerks. In reading a ton on the various forums, I noticed a lot of discussion of CELs. I don't want to have to worry about them each time I start my car (but maybe it's inevitable) and if I do get a CEL, I will need to be able to check the cause and shut them off if it's mod related. How do I do this? What do I need? Is it difficult?

 

Based on the mods you mention, you shouldn't trip the CEL. Some have had 02sensor readings off on aftermarket cats but this can be corrected with 02Sensor extensions--available from Rhonda at FVD in Florida.

In the event you do throw codes, pick up an OBDII Scan Tool. $75 at Autozone or Sears. Plug it in the OBDII port underneath the dash in the driver's side footwell, read the codes, clear them. Basic-done in 2 mins.

FWIW--I've not heard positives on the GIAC software. Not many have noticed any fly by wire gains. Check out Softronic instead.

 

Does this OBDII scan tool clear the codes? Is there a site that lists out what the codes mean that you know of? How many 02 Sensor extensions would I need to buy? Thanks!

 

The scan tool will merely identify what caused the Check Engine Light to pop and allows you to reset it. It comes with a booklet that lists what the codes are.

Don't go out and buy the 02sensor extensions prematurely ! But if needed, you'll need 4. 2 for each side, pre and post cat.

 

I bought an OBDII scan tool and tried to clear fault codes with it and it did not work. I ended up buying the Durametric cable and software. If you are buying new AWE cats you should not have any problem with throwing codes and the CEL. However you can easily throw a CEL just by not correctly tightening down the clamp connecting the cat to the muffler inlet pipe.

Having the Durametric software and cable to clear something like this is invaluable IMO.

 

Ok, so I need the scan tool to check the codes, but I need the Durametric to reset right? How much is the Durametric cable and software?

Thanks!

 

no, you only need the durametric. It is a scan tool and will also reset codes. It will also reset the service warning.

www.durametric.com

 

Full AWE exhaust on my car (headers, cats, mufflers) and no CEL.

 

I second. The Durametric setup is quite nice and very useful. Especially if your car is generating CEL's. OTOH, most exhaust and intake systems from reputable companies have engineered out CEL problems. So unless you're interested in gadgetry (like I am) I wouldn't purchase the cable and software unless and until you actually need it. Which is unlikely.
I had repeated CEL problems after purchasing a high-flow cat which led me to have a stern talk with the installer. A good look in the mirror was all it took. Oh, and retightening one header/cat connector bolt. Haven't had a cell issue since.

 

The mods you are talking about are all very benign, and the good news is that they are unlikely to cause any CEL issues whatsoever.

The flip side of that, is that they also offer very little by way of performance gain. AWE cats do indeed make a very nice difference in both sound and performance and they pair very well with the EVOMS CAI. I have run both, very happily, and love dealing with the folks at both shops.

Just be sure that you have the right expectations in terms of "real" performance gains for any mod before you jump into it. I can tell you that after trying just about every single iteration, combination, and variation of mod for my '05 997S, ultimately, my decision to Supercharge was the best one, and one I wish I'd done from the outset. It's the best bang/ buck there is, and it's absolutely incredible. No comparison to anything else, end of story, period.
CATTMAN

 

Yes, I have read quite a bit here on this forum and other forums. For the most part, it seems you can get a normally aspirated 997.1S up to about 380-390 max, but it's unlikely that you can to tell that ~10% increase in your butt dyno. The fact that I know it's there is cool and the sound will improve. I may feel a nudge more in a certain range or maybe not. My next move would be a Turbo cab probably in 3/4 years or so since I must have a convertible.