General Archive | Turbo Kraft

Porsche Common Oil Leaks

September 26, 2017 By Christopher Carroll

Drip, drip, drip. No, it’s not a leaky faucet, it’s that slow leak coming from underneath your car that you’d rather not see, hear, or deal with. Let’s be honest, it’s easy to see a puddle under your car and simply drive away and ignore it. It’s easy but not smart. The longer you ignore a possible oil leak the more damage it can do. Even high performance Porsches are prone to wear and tear over time, including damage to gaskets and seals that can cause oil leaks. While some oil leaks are simply a small annoyance, others can be red warning signs that repairs and maintenance are needed immediately. The best way to avoid a potentially expensive and even dangerous leak is to keep your eyes and ears open and address any issues sooner rather than later.

There are some telltale signs that indicate an oil leak. There is the infamous puddle under the car that you might notice as you drive away but some signs are more subtle. As oil leaks in your vehicle, it may create a strong smell of hot or burning oil. This is a red flag that your vehicle needs to be checked out. You can also regularly monitor your oil levels by checking the dipstick. If you check your oil regularly and the levels drop significantly over a short period of time, this can be a precursor to a major leak. Another indicator could be engine noise. When there is a severe oil loss, the engine loses lubrication creating a rattling noise. If your car starts to exhibit any of these indicators, take it in to a Porsche specialist and get it checked out.

Why an oil leak is a big deal

While some people might tell you that oil leaks are no big deal and should be expected, this is a potentially dangerous attitude to take. Oil lubricates your Porsche’s engine, and without it you will damage the engine to the point it could seize. The engine isn’t the only part of your car that could suffer. Oil leaking out on to the engine can damage hoses, engine belts, ignition parts, and electrical items such as sensors and connectors. In addition, if the oil gets onto your brake system it can cause severe damage there as well.

If that weren’t enough, leaking oil can pose a fire hazard. If it leaks onto the exhaust system, and the oil gets hot enough, it can ignite. A catalytic converter can get up to 700 or 800 degrees, meaning if oil leaks onto it, a fire could easily be the result.

Common models with oil leak issues and why

Water cooled Porsches are known to leak oil. The 944/968/ and 928 all have the same common oil issues. Oil leaks are often caused by the valve cover seals, front engine seals and engine oil pan gaskets in these models.

In addition, common air cooled 911 oil leak issues include the engine thermostat O ring, lower valve gasket covers, oil return tube seals and crankshaft oil seals. Air cooled engine repairs can be expensive as some disassembly is usually required. Gaskets are relatively easy to access whereas seals are more challenging and will generally cost more in time and labor.

All Porsches are subject to the unfortunate challenges of aging. Age and use can cause seals and oil lines to deteriorate, breakdown and leak. If you are looking at purchasing a used Porsche, pay particular attention to known issues for that make and model. Have any prospective purchase inspected by a Porsche specialist and maintain any vehicles you currently own. Regularly scheduled Porsche maintenance and upkeep can keep oil leak issues to a minimum.

When you are faced with an oil leak you have several methods available to stop or address the leak. One very common temporary fix is simply to add more oil when it runs low. This usually works best when dealing with a very slow oil leak and has to be done consistently so that your oil levels never get low enough to damage the engine. This isn’t a great long term solution as you are not truly cleaning the existing oil out or identifying the root cause of the leak. Also, you run the risk of forgetting to add oil and causing permanent and/or expensive damage to your engine and other car parts.

Sometime replacing worn or damaged parts is simply too costly so many people turn to oil stop leak products. But these products are generally not very effective. These types of products use chemicals to make the seals swell and, in theory, stop leaking oil. These types of products are usually not recommended as they often mask the root problem. This could result in the real issue growing and getting worse, costing you more time and money in the long run.

If your Porsche has sprung a leak, let our experts take a look. It could be a quick, easy fix or a more involved issue. Either way, addressing it now with a Porsche professional will save you and your vehicle from messy and unnecessary future repairs.

Commuter Car Options

September 20, 2017 By Christopher Carroll

The daily slog getting to and from work can be brutal. If you spend a chunk of your work day commuting, you have probably already looked at the “best” commuter cars on the market. We’ve decided to take a look at the Toyota Prius, the BMW i3 and the Porsche Cayman. All very different vehicles, but all with the potential to be the best commuter car. When considering which car is best for the many hours you will be logging on the road, there are several criteria you need to keep in mind: cost, mileage, comfort, reliability and performance. But you also need to consider the option that’s going to bring you the most joy. There’s no reason you should log all those miles in misery.

Sticker and Pump Prices For Commuter Car

The Toyota Prius finds its strength in its affordable price tag and mileage. The base model MSRP starts at $23,475 and boasts up to 53 highway mpg. This hybrid further tempts commuters in some states by qualifying for the coveted energy efficient license plate that allows single drivers access to the HOV lanes.

The BMW i3 is an all-electric car and it challenges the Prius in mileage and energy efficiency but comes with a higher price tag. The i3 takes mileage high honors with an electric charge that can carry you 80 – 114 mpg. Those additional miles and more energy efficient vehicle come with a base model MSRP of $42,400.

The Porsche 718 Cayman is the last of the pack in these categories. The base 718 Cayman retails at $67,700 and comes with plenty of upgrades and sport add on’s available that can increase the sticker price significantly. In addition, the Cayman gets 26 – 28 highway miles per gallon making your monthly gas expense manageable, but not even close to the savings of the Prius or i3. In the interest of fairness, we should mention that the Cayman is not a hybrid or electric vehicle and because of that is at a disadvantage in terms of mileage. Porsche is scheduled to release the Mission E, a fully electric vehicle by 2020 with a range of 310 miles and a 15-minute charge.

Comfort

The Prius, with its low-price point and get the job done attitude, emphasizes fuel economy but skimps on luxury. The interior space and mileage abilities of a Prius are respectable with standard features such as hands free blue tooth and steering wheel audio controls. But the infotaintment system is user friendly by basic by comparison to other manufacturers. The interior feels spacious at first blush but passengers may find the legroom a bit cramped.

If luxury is your priority, the BMW i3 kicks it up a notch. While it should be noted that the i3 seats four and the door style forces you to open the front door before you can open the back door, your passengers should be relatively comfortable. The cabin feels spacious and for the most part upscale. Some of the i3 interior materials are recycled and may feel a bit less luxurious than in other models. The infotainment system has a console mounted controller and a swift response time making it user friendly and comes standard with a navigation system.

While the i3 takes comfort up a notch, the Porsche Cayman ups the ante several more times. The Cayman can comfortably accommodate two people and features Porsche’s typical high quality interior including partial leather upholstery. The infotainment system is Porsche’s own Porsche Communication Management or PCM. Standard features include Bluetooth, HD radio, satellite radio, sensors for parking and a rear-view camera. This doesn’t include the plethora of additional upgrades that are available including full leather interior or sport seats.

Commuter Car Performance

Over time, Toyota has designed the Prius to have a decent ride and smoother handling but overall sacrifices in performance have been made in exchange for mileage. The 121 horsepower generated from the 1.8 liter, four cylinder engine simply can’t doesn’t have the power or performance of the Porsche Cayman or the BMW i3. It will take a Prius over 10 seconds to get from zero to sixty. While this option may get you farther for less, it won’t get you there faster.

The BMW i3 focuses on a smaller carbon footprint and tries to maintain performance with a lighter, more streamlined design. The i3’s get and up and go potential is a bit more respectable as it can get from zero to sixty in 7.2 seconds with 170hp. Top speed is 92 mph. The i3 comes standard with narrow tires which are not great for handling. These can be upgraded to a wider, better performing version. The i3 is a good example of compromises made for performance and commuting.

While the Porsche Cayman doesn’t take high marks in the mileage or price categories, performance is where it shines. The high price tag includes all the expected Porsche features with the Cayman boasting 300 horsepower and hitting zero to sixty in 4.9 seconds. The Cayman S clocks in at 350 horsepower and zero to sixty in 4.4 seconds. The newest Cayman models also include updated brakes, and a turbocharged 2.0 or 2.5 engine respectively as opposed to the naturally aspirated flat six engines of models before. You can use that turbocharged speed to avoid dangerous drivers and potential collisions on your way to work. While the Prius sacrifices performance for mileage, Porsche goes the other way, making sheer speed and performance the priority.

When considering the best commuter car for you, you need to look at reliability, durability, mileage, efficiency and last but not least, the quality of time you spend in the vehicle. If you are spending two hours a day in your car, there’s no reason you shouldn’t make them the best two hours possible. If you are considering purchasing a Porsche to serve as a commuter car, call TurboKraft and let our expert technician’s check it out for you.

Top 10 Most Luxurious Porsches

September 18, 2017 By Christopher Carroll

When it comes to Porsches there are so many fun things to argue about… which one is the most beautiful Porsche, the most historic, the most emblematic of the brand. Porsche’s are fun to talk about, disagree about and make lists about. So just for fun, here are our top 10 most luxurious Porsche’s:

2017 Panamera 4 and Panamera 4S

The 2017 Porsche Panamera 4 and 4S are number one and two of Porsche’s most luxurious models to offer. They have the speed, comfort and sheer luxury to entice even the most discerning critic. With the Panamera 4S all-wheel drive engine you can harness 440 horsepower and zip from zero to sixty in 4.3 seconds. If you wanted to enjoy your luxury on the racetrack, the Panamera tops out at 179 mph track speed. The under the hood and interior features that help make the Panamera a luxury machine include Porsche’s PKS system, Porsche Traction Management (PTM), and the custom Porsche communication management (PCM) console. This vehicle is built to do as much of the heavy lifting as you want it to.

The interior of the Panamera is built around the best possible experience for the driver. Everything is within arm’s reach and engineered for your comfort. Porsche designed the Panamera so that the driver can go from the steering wheel to the gear shift in a quick, easy motion. The high resolution touchscreen displays make navigating the vehicle as easy and simple as possible. The multisport steering wheel is an added bonus designed for driver comfort and easy accessibility. The Panamera, similar to other Porsche models, also allows for customization to create your ideal luxury. You can choose from leather or two tone interior as well as wood, aluminum or carbon trims. The Panamera is just one more way Porsche provokes their drivers into realizing the sky is the limit.

2017 Porsche Cayenne

The Cayenne is Porsche’s midsize SUV offering and simply embraces the life of luxury. The Cayenne is a roomy, inviting vehicle that gives its driver all the technology, speed and quality design you would expect. The interior cabin offers plenty of space, throne like seats and has all the bells and whistles of other Porsche models. The Cayenne is slightly roomier than it’s little brother, the Macan, and offers many options for customization. For the driver that wants a luxury car on the track as well as the road, the Cayenne base model has 300 horsepower and will get you from zero to sixty in 7.3 seconds.

2017 Macan Turbo

While the Panamera shows off the luxury of Porsche on the high end of spending, the Porsche Macan is a crossover vehicle that makes luxury available to those on a tighter budget. The base model Macan has a starting MSRP of $47,800 while the Turbo with performance package starts out at $87,700. Both of which are still under the Panamera 4 base price of $89,600. The Macan ranks number 1 in Car and Driver’s Compact Luxury Crossover and SUV category. It has the speed and classic engineering Porsche is famous for while also delivering comfort and luxury for those long road trips. The interior is again, focused on accessibility and comfort and is carefully engineered to give everyone traveling enough space. The Macan also features the Porsche specific infotainment and handling systems that make it a pleasure to drive. With its base model at 252 horsepower and zero to sixty in 6.3 seconds, the Macan offers plenty of plushness and speed to satisfy.

2017 Porsche Boxster S

Also known as the 718 Boxster, this two seat roadster boasts speed and comfort in a beautifully melded symphony of luxury. With a turbocharger mated to its four cylinder engine, a six-speed manual transmission, 350 horsepower and zero to sixty in 4.4 seconds, it is sure to satisfy the hungriest of speed demons. Porsche also included rear wheels that are half an inch wider and engine steel reinforcement for better handling. This model also shows off electronic programming to keep the turbo moving with the quickest response time possible. The interior is as luxurious as you would expect and an optional infotaintment system can make sure everything you need is at your fingertips.

918 Spyder Weissach

The 918 Spyder is already a beast by any standards, but Porsche has upped the ante and offers the Weissach package for those who need just a little bit more. The light weight construction of this vehicle and carefully crafted engineering include a film coating instead of body paint, ceramic wheel bearing and a weight optimized brake system in order to save weight and maximize speed. This vehicle boasts two electric motors and a 4.6 liter V8, which combines to show off 887 horsepower and an unbelievable 940 pound-feet of torque. This luxury hybrid stands out among the crowd and sits top of the line both on the road and the track.

2018 911 GT2RS

The 2018 911 GT2RS is the first to bear the name since the 2011 iteration. It is a monster by any definition, a beautiful, luxurious, insanely fast monster. Its 700 horsepower and 553 lb-feet of torque could make other cars feel like a Mongol warrior named Genghis or Kublai just swallowed them whole. This track ready, upgraded and overhauled 911 Turbo simply is more. It comes with a lightweight exhaust system, water injection system and custom PDK dual clutch transmission for a seamless transfer of power. This is the Porsche of the present and it is luxuriously fast.

2017 Carrera S

The Carrera S rocks a twin turbocharged engine and 3.0 liter flat six. It comes with a manual or PDK transmission and hits a top speed of 191 mph. Its chassis is built for comfort and interior includes all the ergonomic bells and whistles of recent Porsche models. The Carrera S comes with optional packages such as the Sports Chrono and Sports Driving Plus to add to an already exhilarating driving experience. The Carrera S fits right in next to Porsche’s bevy of other luxurious options.

1963 Porsche 901

The 901 would later be renamed the 911, but this seminal Porsche is a quintessential example that even 5 decades ago, Porsche understood how to bring luxury to a racecar. This coupe and its rear engine proved that small and light vehicles could still be powerful and fun. The German engineering of Ferdinand Porsche focused on sleek aerodynamics. The interior is small and of a more minimalist style but everything that is included, is of the typical Porsche quality.

Porsche 356

The 356 was the 911 predecessor and set the tone for future models to come. This sporty, two door, rear wheel drive and lightweight car is air cooled and has the “heart” that Porsche purists love. It’s nimble and built for handling, making it a joy for any enthusiast. This piece of Porsche history sets the stage for the monstrously luxurious models that came after it.

When Porsche creates a vehicle, it manages to redefine the marriage between a race and road car, dancing a wonderfully fine line between daily driver and deadly racecar. These cars are built around the overall driving experience and bask in the title of luxury.

Parts Guide for Rare Porsche 944 Parts

August 29, 2017 By Christopher Carroll

Porsche enthusiasts often enjoy repairing and restoring their own vehicles. This further cements the relationship between owner and driver and can be an incredibly enjoyable experience. When it comes to your Porsche 944, what you put into it matters. Make sure that you know what you are looking for and where to look to get the best Porsche parts possible.

About the Porsche 944

The Porsche 944 made its debut into Porsche history with striking lines and angular features. This model aimed to provide performance and pricing to a discerning customer base. With a 2.5 liter 4 cylinder engine the 944 was manufactured in 1982 and boasted 160 horsepower. The first incarnation of the 944 featured pop up headlights, integrated bumpers and flared wheel arches. The 1987 Porsche 944 S was strikingly similar to the original 944 in body style and design but saw an improved four valve engine for more horsepower and speed. The 944 is a special part of Porsche’s legacy. If you are looking to repair or restore a 944, make sure that you use parts that live up to that legacy and ensure the health and longevity of your car.

Why are performance parts important?

Porsche has spent a lot of time and effort designing well-engineered, high performing vehicles. It only takes one faulty part to ruin all that hard work. For instance, if you are replacing a defective catalytic converter you need to ensure your replacement parts are durable and well made. A poorly made catalytic converter part can decrease acceleration and horsepower and potentially damage the car. Don’t be deceived by low priced parts. If they end up causing long term damage you will pay a high price in the long run.

Verify that parts are correct and legitimate.

If you are just branching out into doing it yourself work on your Porsche 944, make sure that you consult with an expert regarding parts. Similarly, you want to verify with a Porsche dealership or custom parts specialist that the part you are purchasing is the right one for your car. Check the part and VIN number against the vehicle you are working on and make sure that they are a perfect fit.

If you are purchasing parts that come from a used vehicle, you should research the history of that vehicle. If a car has suffered from flooding or smoke damage parts may be weakened without changing appearance. One incorrect or damaged part can dramatically impact others and ultimately the performance and longevity of your car.

Consider the source

Online purchasing can come with greater risk. There are some reliable and quality vendors that operate online only businesses, but there are also vendors that take advantage of the anonymity of online shopping and will knowingly sell inferior parts for inflated prices. If you are determined to do your parts shopping online, looks for well-established vendors that have many positive reviews and explicitly spell out their policies. The online vendor should also be able to tell you how he or she obtained their parts and accurately describe their condition.

Craigslist can be a veritable treasure trove of discounted deals but should also come with a large flashing light that says, “buyer beware”. Purchases made on Craigslist and similar sites are usually “as-is” and come with no refunds, exchanges or guarantees. If you have taken the time and expense to invest in a Porsche 944, don’t risk your car with substandard parts.

Porsche specific swap meets can also provide a plethora of parts to choose from. Swap meets come with the same benefits and challenges of Craigslist. You may find a great deal but vendors are temporary and literally gone the next day. This means there are typically no guarantees or refunds if you are a dissatisfied customer.

Custom create your needed part

While this is the most expensive route on this list it is also the most reliable. Working with a reputable Porsche specialist such as TurboKraft helps ensure the quality of your part. You automatically know the history of the part and the materials used to create it. A custom created part can also be tweaked or fitted to match your Porsche’s need perfectly. When you work with a brick and mortar store you have the benefit of customer service. When you bring your car to us, our technicians will take the time to carefully inspect your vehicle, go over any customizations made and identify and create the perfect part.

When it comes to your Porsche 944, if you can dream it, we can build it. Don’t take unnecessary chances when it comes to your car. Purchasing custom parts from TurboKraft gives you person to person access to our staff and their ingenuity and creativity. It takes a skilled craftsman to produce quality custom parts and our TurboKraft team has the passion and expertise to get it right every time.

Mission E: Porsche Goes Electric

July 28, 2017 By Christopher Carroll

Imagine the purist driving experience… what do you see? Are you envisioning the speed of a 911 Turbo S or the luxury of the Panamera? Are you fueled by a desire to go as fast as you can as quickly as possible? Or does the drive of your dreams include maneuvering deftly through hairpin turns? At any point in your imagination did you happen to see a Porsche electric car? One that does the driving for you so that you can read the newspaper at the wheel? As Porsche moves further into the future, the picture of what’s to come is changing. Porsche is keeping its speed, design and engineering and pushing its brand forward into the realm of electric vehicles.

Porsche: All Electric

Porsche has been an engineering pioneer and is looking to keep its title and demolish the competition. When it comes to forward thinking, Porsche is openly planning and designing for the future. Porsche declared that it is unveiling the Mission E, an all electric vehicle, in 2020. While many Porsche customers may not initially think of the power and craftsmanship of a Porsche in the form of an electric vehicle, the Mission E represents Porsche’s foray into the future, and it’s electric.

Oliver Blume, chairman of Porsche, has described in detail that Porsche is planning on unveiling an all electric car in several models with the capability to move up in power. Blume spoke after the Geneva Motor Show and described the Mission E particulars, and they’re impressive. According to Blume, Mission E will have a 15 minute charge and run for approximately 311 miles. The Mission E could come with different outputs and horsepower options with possible upgrades available. The charge time may depend on available chargers and if the available technology has caught up to the vehicle. Porsche is also considering software updates that could be sent to the car without a visit to the dealer. If Porsche is able to utilize technology in this way, it may be offered at a premium as an additional add-on to the vehicle or upgrade.

In addition, Porsche is also including autonomous driving as part of the package. While Porsche owners are known for enjoying their driving experience, the ability to abdicate control to the vehicle in order to relax awhile will also be an option. Porsche will seek to meet the needs of driving enthusiasts while also allowing their drivers to avoid daily driving irritations such as navigating traffic. This will most likely be achieved with different modes that allow the driver to take control or utilize the vehicles self-driving system. Mission E is a sleek and serious example of Porsche’s dedication to firmly plant itself in the future of cars, embracing both electric and autonomous driving.

Porsche’s First Electric Car

The first Porsche designed vehicle was unearthed from an old Austrian shed and while it may have resembled an old horse drawn carriage, it was electric in power. While ardent Porsche enthusiasts will know that the first Porsche branded vehicle was the 356, the first vehicle actually designed by the one and only Ferdinand Porsche was the P1 also known as the “Egger-Lohner electric vehicle, C.2 Phaeton model”. Ferdinand Porsche was able to take approximately 30 years of experience and knowledge of designing cars for manufacturers such as Daimler-Benz and Lohner and channel it into the first Porsche electric car.

Ferdinand Porsche took a flawed P1 that debuted in 1898 at the Austrian Automobile Club and reimagined it to roadworthiness. He utilized an electric motor with an eight sided housing and shock absorbers to protect the motor. He also moved the electric motor to the rear, adjusted the axle steering and much more. He made sure that his design work received the proper credit by engraving P1 on all the important parts of the vehicle.

Porsche’s hard work to ensure he received his due was wise, as the P1 was light years ahead of its nearest competition. In an international competition in Berlin, Germany, the P1 faced 18 other vehicles in a challenging 40 kilometer contest. Porsche Ferdinand took gold in a spectacular fashion, finishing 18 minutes ahead of the nearest competitor. In addition to finishing first, P1 also topped the charts in efficiency, recording the lowest energy consumption. Once this remarkable vehicle was rediscovered, it was placed in the annals of history by taking its proper place in the Porsche museum in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen.

We Service ALL Porsches

Whether you are a Porsche owner caring for your 1970 Spyder or your 2017 911 GT3 or anything in-between, TurboKraft is here to help. We have a staff of Porsche experts and craftsmen. We can help you care for and customize any Porsche into anything you can dream of and just like Porsche, we will continue to evolve and grow. So if you decide to purchase part of Porsche’s future in an electric car, we will be here to help you with that too.

Why Should You Care About Porsche Maintenance?

July 22, 2017 By Christopher Carroll

How Long Should I Keep My Car?

When deciding whether how long to keep a car and when to part ways there are some specific items to keep in mind. Your car needs to meet certain criteria when it comes to deciding the length of ownership.

Cost of maintenance

In addition to your actual car payments, vehicle ownership comes with many other expenses, the least of which is regular Porsche maintenance. Your vehicle may, over time, become more expensive to maintain than what it is worth. At some point you may need to decide to invest money you are putting into maintenance towards a new car instead. It is helpful to work with experienced mechanics and craftsmen to determine a maintenance schedule and budget funds accordingly in advance. Unexpected maintenance can be financially debilitating otherwise.

Reliability

A vehicle is simply useless if it is not reliable. There is nothing worse than being stranded on the side of the road in a snowstorm or 115 degree heat with a screaming toddler in the back seat. Your vehicle should always get you where you need to go without any unnecessary mechanical issues or unexpected waits for a tow truck.

Resale value

When you purchase a vehicle, you may have hopes of reselling it to recoup some of your initial investment. If you hold on to a vehicle for too long, it may have too many miles and too much wear to retain any resale value. If you own the right vehicle and put the right amount of care into it, you can help retain that value.

Quality of care

When deciding how long to keep your car, you need to consider how it was treated before you purchased it. If someone drove your car 100,000 miles in a year prior to your ownership, you may need to part ways sooner than later. If your car has suffered any major damage such as flooding, you should have it closely inspected as that could continue to affect your car over time. Damage, level of care and commitment to maintenance will all factor into the lifespan of a vehicle.

Why Keeping Your Porsche Just Makes Sense

Porsches simply check all the boxes when it comes to the items above. The most challenging perhaps is the cost of maintenance for your Porsche. Porsches are high performing well engineered machines and as such need high quality care and frequent maintenance to run at optimum levels. If you have invested the money to purchase a Porsche, it is worth your while to continue to invest in its care. This way you can extend the life of the vehicle and maximize its performance.

Porsche has established guidelines for vehicle maintenance but it is helpful to work with a Porsche specialist who will get to know you and your vehicle for more customized recommendations. Your Porsche maintenance schedule should reflect your personal driving style. If your twenty year old Porsche is your daily driver and you face battle a long commute every day, your vehicle will need more frequent and specific maintenance than if you use your Porsche on the weekend for your fun, adventure car. Mileage and time are only two pieces of the puzzle that will determine when and how much maintenance your car will need.

While high level racecars are not normally known as family cars, Porsche has managed to meld the best of both worlds with vehicles that are, on the whole, incredibly reliable when well cared for. While many Porsches retain their long lasting life because of the dedication of their owners, they are worth the effort. The oldest Porsche in existence is the subject of a documentary called “Porsche, Ferrari, Bizzarrini and other fundamental steps in life” and is a sweet story of how Luciano Rupolo came to find the Porsche 004, one of the first Porsche’s ever built. While it may be hard to believe, Porsche’s are not just for collectors. The lifespan of a Porsche can be over 200,000 miles when used and cared for properly.

You should enjoy what you drive. It simply makes sense to invest in a car you love, maintain a car you love and then keep a car you love. Porsches make being on the road enjoyable and you should spend your hard earned dollars and finite time enjoying yourself.

Make Your Porsche Last With Regular Service

There is simply no substitute for regular service and maintenance. Think of your Porsche as a valuable investment. Maintenance can make the difference between a reliable, long term vehicle and an unreliable vehicle you can’t wait to get rid of. If you are a Porsche owner and want to maximize your vehicle’s lifespan and performance, contact TurboKraft. We will get to know you and your car to make sure it is on the road and performing as a Porsche should for many miles to come.

12 Best Car Care Tips: Making Your Car in Top Shape

July 12, 2017 By Christopher Carroll

Tip #1 – Change the Oil

Regular oil changes are essential in maintaining the condition and performance of your engine. Oil is the lifeblood of your car and staying on top your oil changes is one of the easiest and best car care tips.

As the oil flows through the various parts of the car it becomes contaminated with dirt and debris. If you do not replenish and change the oil as needed you may experience poor performance from your vehicle or worse, literally destroy your engine. The frequency with which you should change your oil depends on your car, engine and driving habits.

Tip #2 – Cooling System Maintenance

Regardless of where you live, your cooling system is vital to protecting your car engine. In high heat deserts such as Arizona summers your cooling system can help protect your engine and radiator while in areas that experience freezing temperatures your cooling system can protect your engine block. You should regularly check your fluid levels and give your radiator special attention.

Similar to your oil, your radiator system can become congested with dirt and other contaminants. It is important to have the entire system flushed regularly. Check your radiator cap, hoses and tank to ensure everything is running for optimum performance.

Tip #3 – Under Chassis Cleaning

The undercarriage of your car may not seem like a priority. But if you want to extend the performance and life of your vehicle, you should include it in your regular maintenance. You need to gather your supplies and start addressing under chassis cleaning the right way.

Your under chassis will take more than just soap and water. You need to have tools to lift the vehicle and remove large and small bits of dirt and debris. You should also consider protective gear for yourself such as googles and gloves. Tweezers can help remove debris that is tightly lodged and cleaning mitts can help gently pull away dirt and grime. After you are done with the initial cleaning, you should remember to oil the axles and bearings to keep them lubricated.

Tip #4 – Transmission and Differential Oils

So many parts of your vehicle rely on proper lubrication. It is recommended that you lubricate your vehicle twice a year. Your engine, transmission, differential and much, much more all rely on proper lubrication to keep your vehicle functioning. If you neglect this important car care tip, and the lubrication in the differential fails, you won’t be getting very far for very long. If your car starts to sound like it wants to shake, rattle, and roll you may be neglecting this critical step.

Tip #5 – Greasing Moving Parts

Moving parts create friction running the risk of damage over long term use. The easiest way to avoid this damage is to grease the moving parts of your car. The grease helps combat friction and ensure the parts move smoothly. The lubrication also helps prevent the deterioration of the car parts.

Tip #6 – Waxing For A Glossy Look

You have several options when it comes to waxing your vehicle. You can wax your car by hand or use a polisher. With either option, it is important to follow some simple rules so that you don’t damage the vehicle. Make sure that you apply the wax to a dry vehicle, preferably in the shade. If your car is wet, the wax may streak. If the vehicle is too hot, the wax may be difficult to buff off. Also, be certain to use a clean, soft cloth when buffing. Your choice of cloth is important because anything abrasive can scratch your car. Waxing your car can keep it looking glossy and in tip top condition if you are careful when executing this best car care tip.

Tip #7 – Regular Lubrication of U-Joints

U-joints are a critical component to your driveshaft. These joints provide much needed flexibility. Without the proper lubrication of the U-joints, you run the risk of damaging the driveshaft. If you choose the do it yourself route, slowly inject the U-joints with lubrication until all the old lubrication is expunged. You should be able to see an easy flow of grease being expelled.

Tip #8 – UV Protector

If you follow all of the previous best car care tips, you are addressing the majority of the internal workings of your vehicle. It would be a shame to put that much effort into your car only to have the exterior of the car look terrible with faded, peeling paint. The best way to care for the outside of your car is to protect it from the elements. Regular washing, drying and waxing will help preserve your paint job and have your car looking like you just drove it home from the dealer. In addition, the little things can go a long way. Park in the garage or shade and avoid leaving your car in the scorching sun whenever possible. If that doesn’t cut it, look into more intensive paint preservation methods such as protective film.

Tip #9 – Inspect Car Engine and Wheel Bearings

Your vehicle will talk to you if you let it and are willing to listen. Pay close attention to new noises and rattles and take the time to inspect your car. When a wheel bearing goes bad there are some tell tale indicators. The first is a noise coming from the wheel area. It may get louder when you accelerate. Remember to turn the radio off, roll the window down and listen to your vehicle regularly.

This will help you observe any changes or unusual sounds. Loose steering and uneven tire tread can also be indicators of damaged wheel bearings. When it comes to your car, take the time to assess the little things.

Tip #10 – Brake Fluid Replacement

Brake fluid is just like all the other fluids your vehicle relies on. It is susceptible to breaking down over time. Brake fluid can become contaminated with excess moisture over time causing a possible failure. Brake fluid is stored in a translucent container. You can view the level of fluid without ever having to open the tank. Don’t open the container unless you absolutely have to, as opening it will expose it to additional moisture. While you can easily check your fluid levels it is also highly recommended that you have your fluid checked and / or changed regularly.

Tip #11 – Head Light Maintenance

Headlight maintenance is always a good idea. There is no worse time for poor visibility than driving at night. There are some simple steps you can take to ensure the best lighting possible. First, clean and polish the exterior of your headlight. Bugs, dirt and grime accumulate over time. Removing these items will increase your lines of sight. Check your lights often. You may have lights out and not realize it until you really need them. If you notice any issues, address them immediately. This will help you travel more safely and avoid unnecessary tickets.

Tip #12 – Tire Check For Wear and Tear

It sounds simple enough, but one of the best car care tips is often neglected; check your tires for wear and tear. You need to check your tread, wear patterns and look for bald spots. Any issues with tires can be indicators of larger problems and should be addressed immediately.

Tip #13 – Car Brakes Inspection

Your brakes have to work properly for you to travel safely. Brake inspections should happen at a minimum of twice a year. Your brake discs should be shiny and consistent. If there are any rough patches in the grooves, they will need to be replaced. Your pads, shoes and rotor should all also be carefully inspected. Like so many others discussed, this is another place where fluid needs to be checked and changed regularly. Treat your car well so it can do the same for you.

If you are a Porsche owner and want to maximize your vehicle’s lifespan and performance, contact TurboKraft. We will get to know you and your car to make sure it is on the road and performing as a Porsche should for many miles to come.

What’s It Like to Own a Porsche Long-Term?

May 25, 2017 By Christopher Carroll

Owning a Porsche

Let’s be honest, owning a Porsche is fun. Porsche is iconic and a brand that symbolizes speed, luxury, and craftsmanship. Owning a Porsche for any length of time gives you an opportunity to invest in an incredible vehicle and get to know your Porsche inside and out. Whether you own an original Porsche 911, that may come with oversteering challenges and a soulful air cooled engine or a 2017 Porsche 911 Turbo designed for sheer speed and horsepower, every day you own and enjoy your Porsche is a day you become more invested in it. A Porsche, is like any other car in that it requires time, attention and maintenance. For such high performing vehicles, these items can actually be even more important. That is why when you are shopping for your dream car, you need to consider the long-term benefits and expenses. Here’s a Porsche 911 buying guide if you are planning to own one.

Cost of Owning a Porsche

When evaluating the cost of Porsche ownership, you need to take into consideration insurance and maintenance costs as well as additional expenses for any restoration or customizations. Part of enjoying your luxury car or racing monster is not stressing over unexpected costs hitting your bank account. A good example of an expense you can plan for in advance is insurance. Insurance costs are typically impacted by the value, type, and safety features of a vehicle. Newer Porsche’s safety features such as like anti-lock brakes, stability control, and airbags in every conceivable place. These safety features are helpful but don’t change the fact that Porsche’s are sports cars, with a long lineage of racing and made for speed. The sheer value of a Porsche along with the sports car categorization will keep your insurance costs high. The appraised value of your vehicle will also directly impact your insurance premiums. The difference between insuring a $50,000 car versus a $500,000 car is substantial. It is very easy to work with an insurance agent in advance to get quotes for premiums on any vehicle you are considering. With this small bit of preplanning you can have a clearer picture of vehicle ownership expenses.

Porsche maintenance is another critical component to long term ownership. All of the things Porsche is known for such as quality, efficiency and speed become non-existent if your vehicle doesn’t receive the regular care and maintenance it needs. Given the wide range of Porsche’s available, from an original Porsche 911 to a 2017 Porsche Cayenne your maintenance schedule and servicing needs to be vehicle and owner specific. If you use your Cayenne primarily for driving the kids to school your maintenance needs will be substantially different than if you drive your GT3 at top speeds around the track. Oil changes are a must, as are filters and fluids. You also need to keep your tires, powertrain and engine all in pristine condition. Neglecting maintenance can result in expensive repairs and rob you of the joy of your Porsche’s optimum performance. While Porsche gives maintenance schedule guidelines, you should work with a Porsche professional that will learn about you as well as your car and give you individualized recommendations to improve and maintain performance.

Last but certainly not least, you need to consider the costs of restoration and / or customization of your Porsche. If you purchase a classic Porsche like an early 911 or Targa you may be looking at some specialized restoration items. Similarly, if you are considering purchasing a Porsche but need a different spoiler, paint job or even engine you should price these items out in advance. Custom work can be a simple as adding unique rims or as complicated as building a completely new engine. Specialty Porsche shops, like ours, can make this happen but any change to the vehicle will factor in to the overall costs of ownership.

While all the items above take into consideration the costs of long term Porsche ownership, they don’t touch on the most important thing: the benefits. As a Porsche owner, you will get to experience sheer speed and craftsmanship. Porsches are coveted by owners and enthusiasts alike. When you own a Porsche you are able to claim a piece of the brand and prestige that comes with it. If brand names don’t mean anything to you, you can still celebrate the speed and history of your vehicle and enjoy the street legal racing roots that Porsches bring to the table. When you purchase a Porsche and make a long term ownership commitment you are able to invest in your vehicle, craft it to your liking, and be challenged to make it the very best it can be.

Porsche Ownership: We Can Help

If you have your eye on a Porsche or have already purchased your dream vehicle, contact TurboKraft to get the most out of Porsche ownership. If you can dream it, we can make it happen. Whether you need a customized maintenance schedule or a complete restoration, we are here to make the most of your Porsche owning experience.

How Racing Has Influenced Porsche Road Cars

May 18, 2017 By Christopher Carroll

A Brief History of Porsche Racing

Porsche specializes in street legal cars that are steeped in racetrack history. Porsche began manufacturing in 1948 and made its name as a racing juggernaut in 1951 with a win at Le Mans. The manufacturer continued its legacy by winning Le Mans 18 times, including a nail bitter in 2016. Porsche has a history of excellence when it comes to crafting incredible racecars. Perhaps no one can describe Porsche’s strength and racing roots better than Porsche:

“It has taken that success 18th overall winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans (more than any other manufacturer)
More than 50 class wins at Le Mans
An estimated 28,000 total championships won globally as of 2007
275 dedicated race cars produced in 2007 alone (more than any other manufacturer).

With such a spectacular and impressive impact on the sport of racing, it’s no wonder that Porsche continues to use racing innovations to improve and perfect their road cars.

Racing and the Connection to Road Car

While Ferdinand Porsche initially started out manufacturing farm equipment and consulting for other companies he eventually branched out into his own manufacturing and ultimately created a company that has dominated both the racing and road car markets. It is easy to trace the racing influence in the road cars of today.

CFRP, or Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer, is commonly referred to a carbon fiber and is a light fiber reinforced plastic that is extremely strong. Porsche used CFRP in their vehicles to achieve a lighter overall weight and maximum speed. CFRP first appeared on the Porsche 911 GT1 in 1996 and most recently turned up on the GT3 RS . CFRP is such an effective tool that Porsche has used it for over twenty years.

Another Porsche feature that has its roots featured in racing is carbon ceramic brakes. Cars that are built to go over 150 miles per hour also need to stop; sometimes quickly. Brakes are built to stop a vehicle by using friction. The heat and friction required to stop a car going almost 200 miles per hour can be damaging to the steel of traditional braking systems. Carbon ceramic brakes are designed to withstand the heat and maintain their structural integrity. Because of this, carbon ceramic brakes can have an incredibly long life span especially if you aren’t driving on a racetrack every day. In addition to the longevity and heat resistance some people appreciate the aesthetics of carbon ceramic brakes. To some, they simply add to the appearance of the vehicle. More practically speaking, they also subtract from the weight of the car. These brakes are much lighter than their steel counterparts helping again, to improve the optimum speed of the car. Porsche has always taken its quest for faster and better seriously and its improvement in braking systems is no different. Original Porsche’s featured four disc brakes and two calipers and went through several iterations before progressing to carbon ceramic brakes in the 996 GT2 in 2001. These brakes are still available as an upgrade on many Porsche models.

Another aspect of Porsche’s racing success that carries over to their road cars is the sheer speed and power that helped make Porsche famous. Porsche’s 1^st win in 1951 at Le Mans was with a racing 356 SL that could reach up to 160 km/h and 46 horsepower. Porsche has taken that engine and simply improved upon it over the years. The 2017 Panamera Turbo exemplifies Porsche’s racing roots with a 4 liter V8 engine that achieves 550 horsepower and can reach 60 mph in 3.6 seconds. The Panamera is Porsche’s 2017 sports sedan. This means that even in a vehicle designed for the on the go businessperson and his or her family, you can see the power and roots of Porsche’s past.

The infamous turbo is another textbook Porsche characteristic that can be seen in both race and road cars over the years. The first Turbo debuted in 1975. The first 911 Turbo model that was available for purchase was a hulking figure and only produced as a limited edition. The Turbo boasted a larger engine capacity and wider wheel arches. As the Turbo continued to be utilized the engine kept getting bigger with the 1993 Turbo boasting a 3.6 liter. Thanks to Porsche’s racing roots and continued technological advances, today’s 911 Turbo road vehicles can brag about 540 horsepower and zero to sixty in 2.9 seconds.

Your Source for Porsche Road Racing Parts

If you are looking to add or customize your road car to reflect more of Porsche’s racing roots, give us a call. TurboKraft’s skilled craftsmen can maintain your vehicle or customize any way you wish. Contact TurboKraft and get access to genuine and custom Porsche parts. Let us make your car come to life.

Porsche History and Trivia

May 12, 2017 By Christopher Carroll

Porsche enthusiasts soak in every iota of knowledge about this iconic brand possible. While you may know some of the history and trivia below, you might also find some rarer nuggets of knowledge and trivia that may intrigue and surprise you.

Everything You Never Knew About the Porsche Brand

Porsche’s beginnings weren’t exactly what you would imagine. Ferdinand Porsche initially worked as a chief engineer for Mercedes Benz and for ten years after he created his company, Porsche didn’t build cars. Instead, the company consulted on the design of other vehicles including the VW beetle and WWII tanks.
Porsche owners can get their vehicle custom painted any color they choose, for a fee of course. Despite the many custom options red, black and white are far and away the most popular choices.
Porsche designed tractors. In the 1930’s prior to designing cars, Ferdinand Porsche designed prototypes for tractors.

The History of Porsche

Once Porsche began manufacturing cars, the company found its roots and soul in racing. In the late 40’s Porsche introduced a new Grand Prix racing car and shortly thereafter built the 356. During this same era, Porsche developed and introduced its logo, a hybrid of the Stuttgart coat of arms and the coat of arms of Württemberg. The origin of the logo comes from the state of Württemberg which was once called Stuttgart. This region is where Porsches were built. The logo also includes a horse which comes from the Stuttgart’s Coat of Arms and represents a stud farm the city was built on.

In the 1950’s, the 10,000^th Porsche was built. 1953 saw the introduction of the Porsche 550 Spyder and in 1954 the Speedster was introduced as the stripped down version of the 356.

At the time of Ferdinand Porsche’s death, his son Ferry took over the family business, and Ferry’s son Alexander continued to carry on the family name. In the 1960’s Porsche debuted the now iconic 911 and the coupe model. Both were incredibly successful. Porsche also debuted the Targo, fuel injection and larger engines. Several years after the 911, Porsche debuted the 914 at the Frankfurt Motor Show and won.

The above models helped Porsche establish its name and reputation. The 1970’s brought about a new wave of iconic designs in the form of the 917 and the Porsche 911 Turbo. The 917 is a beautiful racing car that gave Porsche their first win at Le Mans and had a top speed of up to 240 mph. The 917 was so successful there are at least 17 different variations of them that were produced. Meanwhile, the 911 Turbo was Porsche’s combination of speed and luxury.

Porsche engines were air cooled until 1997. The 996 was the first water cooled Porsche and purists were horrified. While many people will argue that air cooled cars have more soul, the benefits of water cooling are plentiful. Water can be more effectively cooled enabling you to run the temperature cooler which in turn can get more power out of an engine. Air cooling tends to be lighter and less expansive in terms of space, however, the water cooling systems have been improved upon and are now the standard.

Porsche entered the SUV market in 2002. Porsche made its mark in this vehicle category with the Cayenne and has captured a fair share of sales majority of Porsche’s profits from the sale of SUV’s. Porsche’s successful experiment into the SUV arena has shifted the luxury market and added to the already robust Porsche brand.

Interesting Porsche Trivia Tidbits

Peugeot sued Porsche… and won. The Porsche 911 was originally named 901, a name that Peugeot argued infringed upon their already existing naming system. Peugeot won and the Porsche 901 was rebranded as the 911. Porsche produced 82 901’s before the forced name change took effect.
They have won Le Mans more times than any other manufacturer.
Porsche designed watches, among other things besides cars. In 1972, Porsche’s first watch design, a chronograph debuted. It features a black matt background with a contrasting white dial and is considered a classic by collectors.
The Dutch police drove Porsche 356’s for a short period of time. They ordered 10 special edition Porsche’s in 1966.
The original 356 speedster did not offer padded seats, visors or heaters as standard options.
Porsche had a driving school which was first held in Long Island, NY in 1971.
In the early `1990’s Porsche was able to decrease the cost of their cars by decreasing the time it took to produce them; taking the total time to build a Porsche 911 from 125 hours down to 80 hours.
Porsche’s movie moments both in actual films and also through the notoriety of famous owners. Jerry Seinfeld, Steve McQueen, Jay Leno and Patrick Dempsey have all enjoyed the benefits of Porsche ownership. In the movie Risky Business, the Porsche shown was actually several different models and versions.

While trivia and tidbits are fun ways to celebrate Porsche and its incredible history, the best way to truly enjoy and get to know these incredible machines is to own one. If Porsche ownership is in your present or future, Call Turbokraft and allow us to show you how we can customize your vehicle to perfectly suit you.