Hi folks, been I while since I last posted here. I had a severe coolant leak in my 997.1 GT3 last week. Massive white clouds of fumes were spewing out of the engine compartment and it was quite epic from the rear view mirror. Originally, I feared it was an engine blow, but it shouldn't be because I was well within the rev limits, and then I realized that the engine was still running so it must be coolant.

So now I've been told it's a pretty common problem with that generation of Turbo's and GT's where a coolant tube basically burst around the O-ring seam. Bad news is that to replace that stupid tube the engine has to come out. I'm still waiting for the quote but I'm not holding my breath.

I figured since the engine is coming out, I might as well see what else I can fix pre-emtively to avoid having to take the engine out AGAIN. So fellow 6-speeders, if you can think of some common problems I can look for or fix while having the engine out please do share. Looks like the GT3 does not have the feared IMS problem (can someone please confirm), but anything else comes to mind?

Also, I've been reading about these Shark Werks metal coolant pipes. This sounds like a pretty good way to prevent this from happening again, but I'm not sure how well these actually work. Has anyone actually installed these pipes and have their experience to share?

PS: For my reference, how many hours does it usually take to take the engine out and put it back?

Any help will be appreciated,
- K.

 

How's your rear main seal? Most folks replace that as a while you're in there item. Do a clutch and LSD inspection and replace/rebuild as indicated.

You need to pin or weld the coolant line fittings as well as installing the Sharkwerks elbows.

Most shops charge $1600-2000 to just drop the engine. My guess is it takes a tech or 2 about 7-8hr to drop and put back in... Probably another $2000-2500 to do the items I mentioned. I would expect $4000-5000 when it's all said and done