I realize I probably bored most of people with my silly questions here already but if there are here any other enthusiasts with well equipped garages and silly habit to took apart things they cannot get together later -

my C2 does not have plenty of stuff I want to put into it. Navigation, mp3 support, phone link support, sport chronometer, etc.

I assume there is more than one reputable junk yard in USA where one could get parts or may be even option kits from totaled cars.
Could somebody please share these resources? It just never crossed my path before and I hope that may be should be somebody out there specializing on used parts for people like me who treat each automobile they own as an ongoing overgrown Lego project.

 

I would recommend staying away from junk yards. Parts from junk yard are often in poor condition and often don't even work due to g shock from the crash.

I recommend either looking on ebay, craigslist or forums for used parts.

as for your need on stereo, you can invest in an aftermarket head unit which does BT, mp3 and touch screen nav that are superior than OEM. retrofitting OEM is often a ***** that still requires a trip to dealer to activate the device using a PST tool. i have yet to see anyone doing a sport chrono retrofit. I'd assume it'll involve taking out the dash and installing a bunch of hardware that works with the ECU - not worth it IMO.

 

eBay usually has Porsche PCM & DVD hardware and NAV discs up for auction. You'll need the required harnesses, antenna, fiber optic connections, etc. to install the new PCM and NAV. It's certainly a doable job if you're a competent DIY guy.

It might be easier, cheaper and certainly you'll gain more functionality (mp3, blue tooth, IPOD, etc) if you install an aftermarket unit (ie. Pioneer, Eclipse, etc. etc). There are sources for matching bezels so the install looks pretty like a OEM device.

I'm assuming you don't have the Bose option so the audio integration part might be simpler. You still might have to replace the amp w/ an aftermarket one if you can't integrate the Porsche one w/ your new unit.

Bottom line you're talking a pretty adventurous job.

Suggestion: Forget the Sport Chrono . . . It's not really needed.

Good Luck!

 

I think that some things you might be able to pick up second hand, but not everything...be careful. These are two companies that will sell you what you are looking for, I haven't dealt with either of them.

www.laporsche.com

www.dcauto.com

 

Thanks.

I am not as concerned about price as about preserving the authenticity of original car.
But your point about aftermarket units may have some sense. Will it be seamlessly integrated preserving all current buttons, actions and screens of PCM or does in completely replace PCM altogether? I would hate to change the original look at central console, IMHO it is not worth it.

But I`ll investigate it, it may have sense to try it.

 

I'm afraid an aftermarket double din NAV unit will not have the PCM functionality. I've seen some forum threads of guys that have made the switch and they look really good. If it's done 'professionally' it looks like it belongs there.

I thought your car didn't have a PCM (radio panel only) to start with? If it does the work is easier. All you need to buy the NAV DVD unit + cables, antenna, etc. and your almost where you want to be. If your current PCM has the 'phone' button you can integrate a Dension w/ BT for your IPOD and Phone requirement. As I said unless you have an early PCM 2.1 unit it will play MP3 CD files already.

Here's link to a current eBay auction that is selling PCM, NAV DVD, etc. etc. http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Porsc...lenotsupported. It's for a 987 but it gives you an idea.

I'm of the OEM equipment mindset as well. This especially true w/ a 'high end car' in order to maintain the proper look & functionality and re-sale value.

 

I`m an idiot in internal terminology, will take me some time to pick it up.
Here is the picture. it is a standard C2 as I understand, so PCM is there.

I assumed aftermarket units would just replace screen itself? But all the buttons will stay? Or will it be required to pull entire unit away from the console? That would be probably too much damage to car`s image.

 

The aftermarket unit replaces everything; screen & buttons surrounding it.

I see from the picture you do have the later PCM so you're in fine shape. Just search for the 'complete' NAV Unit (mounting bracket, cables, etc) and then install it along the Dension Gateway 500 (or equiv) w/ BT option and your problem is solved.

I searched eBay but didn't see a 997 NAV DVD unit listed but they do appear from time-to-time. You might try Craig's List or any of the Porsche centric forums under classified as well.

Good luck and keep us posted on your progress.

 

Will definitely do.

Other than NAV I would like to put in rear bumper sensors (would help a lot to park in Boston), if I find good DIY description of the process. If it involves too much new internal wiring or completely new rear bumper most likely I will not be able to do it, but who knows.

If it is as simple as just placing it into sockets then why not.

I was surprised not to find any options to have bluetooth phone link for 997. Does it even exist? That phone hookup option apparently is an entire phone solution. I just need a hands-free link to my blackberry. It is odd. I would expect it to be available.

 

Yep, and also a radar, of course. Would be nice to have an embedded one. I hate when something protrudes of a dashboard.

 

This is the radar for you, it is easy to hide almost anywhere in your car.

http://www.escortradar.com/store/passport-9500ci.html

I have an older version and it is nice and clean.

 

yes, it makes sense.
then perhaps I can get bluetooth phone integration with the radar and that leaves me with NAV to be connected to PCM plus rear bumper sensors.

Makes sense. Will need to do TDS now and a project plan.

 

have you ever had any legal issues with radar shifter? I am not sure it is worth doing, may cost pretty penny if cops will undig it.

I like the concept overall, but not so sure about active suppressor part of this design.

 

1. There are 'generic' bumper sensor kits currently available in the marketplace. Some require drilling holes in your bumper or plastic covering to install the proximity sensors. Most require wiring to the cabin for the audio warning device. I think I've seen wireless devices as well.

2. You can hardwire a Valentine One and have it sit via suction cup holder right next to the rear view mirror. It's the least expensive way of have an 'integrated' look for radar detection device. Plenty of existing forum threads on this topic.

You need get familiar w/ the search capabilities of this forum as well others. You'll find tons of information covering every whim or question you might have.

ps. Aftermaket NAV units have a camera option port. I did a Pioneer NAV install w/ a rear mounted mini camera on my old Lexus GS400. Another possible reason to go w/ aftermarket.

Maybe you should have bought a car w/ all your desired options already in place. It would have been a lot less trouble and expense. I guess it's too late now.

 

Thanks for info, as of 'may be'`s - there are people who like to buy ready and there are people who like to DIY. I am a second type and it`s unlikely to change.

As of valentine one on suction cap - it is not an embedded solution. It is exactly what I do not like. So it will take some time.