Menu toggle

C4 Vibration

J

j1mw1ll1s

New member
Hi Everyone

At autobahn speeds, there is quite a strong vibration to be felt through the (manual) gear-lever, if I rest my hand on it (briefly, of course!). The car runs fine, wheels are balanced OK, and the vibration is not felt through the seat or steering wheel. Is this normal? Has anyone else experienced it?

Thanks for any feedback

James
 
It wouldn't surprise me if it's a symptom of tired engine mounts. Once the hydraulics get tired the mounts sag to a point where they become almost solid. This can transfer a lot of vibration from the engine through the gearbox and chassis and cause this type of problem. It can also impact the quality of the gearchange too, sometimes to the point where the gearbox will jump out of gear.

Try the finger test - feel the gap between the lower plate of the mount and the main body of the hydraulic section. More than 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch tells you they need replacing. Current wisdom suggests 993 mounts are an economic replacement at almost half the price of the 964 mounts.

Regards

Dave
 
Dave, thanks for this. Sounds likely. Presumably it's the rear engine mounts (hope so- I've no idea how to access the front ones!). Don't know when I can get it fixed as the car is in France right now- will I do any damage by adding a couple more thousand kilometers? Gear-change is fine, by the way.

Regards
James
 
Yes, the rear mounts. The front mount is on the gearbox. There are lots of cars around with what appear to be tired, if not totally shot, engine mounts. It's one of those things that rarely gets looked at. It's just that recently there has been a lot of discussion on the matter and your mention of the vibration - something my car also suffers with - made me think of the possible link. My mounts are in need of replacement - hence my logic.

I don't think there has ever been mention of the mounts completely failing, i.e. engine falling out, although there certainly HAVE been instances of the cracking of the engine carrier which is attached to the mounts. There is some thought that the deterioration of the mounts can lead to the failure of the carrier so I'd be tempted to check out the state of the mounts before you go stretching the cars legs too far!!!

Regards

Dave
 
Got a similar thing with mine James, but mine's noticeable through the seat and wheel, especially on corners while accellerating (don't ya just love C4s !!)
Changed the engine mounts before driving over to the Festival & it's a little better, but not gone.
Mainly noticeable at 160kmph plus (and still there at 245 on the GPS - well, y've gotta check).
I think if it's just the gearstick, it could be quite normal, due to the amount of activity in the transmission at higher speeds. even though mine's vibrating, the car is still planted and feels safe.
I replaced the mounts with 993 ones, 120e each and took 15mins to replace both on a ramp.
Could be done on the floor with a jack under the engine (engine cover off, of course)....possibly 30mins.
My next stop is the front wishbones......not so cheap.......
If you're near Luxembourg, always happy to meet to talk P Cars.

Jon

 
Not sure how relevant this will be given I have a C2, but just before my dual mass flywheel failed I had significant vibration though the gearstick and clutch pedal.

Paul.
 
Thanks everyone for input. Dave, I'll try the 'finger test' as soon as I'm re-united with the car. Jon, glad to know I'm not the only one- same experience at same speeds, maybe it's not so abnormal! Do I understand that the 993 mounts are a straight swop, but cheaper? Couldn't find them on any of the indie parts websites- any suggested sources, or is OEM best?

Cheers

James


 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Posts made and opinions expressed are those of the individual forum members

Use of the Forum is subject to the Terms and Conditions

Disclaimer

The opinions expressed on this site are not necessarily those of the Club, who shall have no liability in respect of them or the accuracy of the content. The Club assumes no responsibility for any effects arising from errors or omissions.

Porsche Club Great Britain gives no warranties, guarantees or assurances and makes no representations or recommendations regarding any goods or services advertised on this site. It is the responsibility of visitors to satisfy themselves that goods and/or services supplied by any advertiser are bona fide and in no instance can the Porsche Club Great Britain be held responsible.

When responding to advertisements please ensure that you satisfy yourself of any applicable call charges on numbers not prefixed by usual "landline" STD Codes. Information can be obtained from the operator or the white pages. Before giving out ANY information regarding cars, or any other items for sale, please satisfy yourself that any potential purchaser is bona fide.

Directors of the Board of Porsche Club GB, Club Office Staff, Register Secretaries and Regional Organisers are often requested by Club members to provide information on matters connected with their cars and other matters referred to in the Club Rules. Such information, advice and assistance provided by such persons is given in good faith and is based on the personal experience and knowledge of the individual concerned.

Neither Porsche Club GB, nor any of the aforementioned, shall be under any liability in respect of any such information, advice or assistance given to members. Members are advised to consult qualified specialists for information, advice and assistance on matters connected with their cars at all times.

Porsche
Lockton
Pirelli
Officially approved
Oracle Finance
WEX Esso
Collecting Cars
Archant Dialogue
Back
Top