I know there are folks on this forum with sports cars and the likes.

I purchased an '06 Porsche Carrera 4S with Navigation and PCM phone and have been researching an integrated Bluetooth / iPod kit as there is none on this model (only '09). It seems Denison and Mobridge are the better units. I am leaning towards the Mobridge. Anyone install this or have experience with a similar unit?

I'm using an iPhone for my cell.

Also, I am going to add a 3M clear bra to the hood and fenders up to the A pillar. Anyone else like it? Any pealing or other issues? What did you pay to install?

Jeff, check the 911 forums for feedback on the clearbra and bluetooth, I'm trying to remember the website I think it's 6speedonline .com or something like that. You could also check the lamborghini forums, alot of guys there have used the clearbra on their Gallardos.

Dan

Ash recommended 6speedonline as well and they have a lot of info.

But since I know the folks here, I like those opinions more.

I'm pretty well sold on the 3M clear bra as I can't find much negative on it.

The Blue Tooth stuff is a bit more controversial. Wondered if anyone here had one installed in their car.

Thanks Dan.

Jeff,
Tooki Bluetooth by Nav TV is the way to go. . . .
That is what I have.
Ash
http://i676.photobucket.com/albums/vv130/todo09/DSC02631.jpg

Ok, i hate you guys enough based on your theatres... this is just pouring salt on!

:D

I'm putting the Kenwood Excelon DNX9140 in my Turbo this week (just put the deposit down this afternoon. Highly recommended unit. The GPS in the Porsche is trash - this is Garmin (best) with everything else including voice command for the phone, GPS, etc.

Also is a 5.1 system with video (need to remember to short the wire so I can use without the parking brake on).

Called a friend who races Porsche - he says to stay away from the 3M and look at a company called Ventureshield.

Not that I've ever done it myself, but I might look into it too.

Ash,

Your Turbo is gorgeous!!! I can't wait to hear more about which mods you employ for racing. A new hobby (and money pit) is born.

Peter,

I gotta know how that Kenwood is. I have a dealer that installs the similar Alpine and your Kenwood. It doesn't quite fit the Porsche dash so they have to do a cut out! They had no Porsche photos to show, so I want to get an idea of what it may look like. I want really Blue Tooth and IPOD. Ash uses the TOOKi, but I don't believe that runs through the Nav screen and uses the Porsche phone buttons. I want something fully integrated. Take some pix of your install, I'd like to see how it integrates. Yes, the Porsche Nav is crap. I'd never use it.

Here's some pix of my new baby. THe onpe good thing about the bad economy is these cars have really fallen in value. So, I jumped in...

http://www.winglake.com/images/room/Porsche2.jpg
http://www.winglake.com/images/room/Porsche1.jpg

Now that's a fine looking vehicle....
Ash

Not true. I have seen this unit installed in another Porsche 911 by the same dealer - it was perfect. Looks factory - this was one of my criteria.

Check it out - Fantastic Unit: http://www.kenwoodusa.com/Car_Entertainment/eXcelon/Mobile_Video_n_Navigation/DNX9140

Nice. Can't tell from the picture, but assuming Black. I'll shoot you some pictures of the job once completed on mine.

Now I need to figure where to put the cup-holders ;-)

Peter,
The 2008 or 09 Turbo has two cup holders right above the glove box....
The strip opens and you can press the cup holders and they come out, very neat design as they can be expanded depending on up size.
Ash

Yup, not mine though.

I've seen the new design. And while it is nice that they do not take up much space, not in a great location for use. Prefer something low to the ground like this - http://www.ultimatecupholders.com/index.html

Now that's a fine looking vehicle....
Ash

It is Porsche Black with Sand Beige interior. Mine has 2 cup holders, adjustable diameter as well. No cup holders in my previous '01.

Yup, not mine though.

I've seen the new design. And while it is nice that they do not take up much space, not in a great location for use. Prefer something low to the ground like this - http://www.ultimatecupholders.com/index.html

I like that holder as well... But they are not made for the 997 (unless it is not listed on their site)..

Loved my Turbocab with mods (chip, short shifter, coil-overs and custom spoiler). Eventually, my neck and behind demanded something more cushy. Now ecstatically happy with my Renntech SL 600.

David

Hey David, is the renntech bored out to 7.3L? or a newer SL600 with ECU upgrades?
The new AMG cars kind of make it tough for the modders as now the OEM are making the cars with "tuner" power!

Hi Mark,
It's a 2007 SL with the ECU upgrade and an upgraded intercooler. I also out on a limited slip. Otherwise, I'd be the guy burning rubber and going nowhere at every stoplight.

David

Hi David,
Yeah, ECU upgrades are so much nicer than old engine bore and stroke mods that cost $30-50K from Renntech for the V8 and V12 regularly aspirated engines!! If I wanted to speed less than $5K I could do this and have it turned around within 2 days:
Currently the GIAC performance program for the Continental GT ® produces 100-114 hp and 120-130 ft-lbs of torque

But I drive the car like an old man anyway and don't come close to its stock performance 552 hp. Still have warranty through April 2012 taking no chances!!

not sure if I am a member of this club but I took the cheap route:

Bought a new 2003 SL500 with AMG sport package [faux AMG], garage kept with less than 5000 miles on it: beautiful mint condition

only worth about $30k now, but it is the same body style so if you don't get too close you cannot tell :)

I drive like Mark B so the extra horsepower is not needed!

I resolved the Clear Bra issue. I went with the 3M

1. Met the guy today that was recommended by two Porsche dealers. Nice guy. Doing it for 15 years. Does window tinting as well.

I stocked LLumar and 3M and had used VentureShield as well. He prefers the 3M as it is far thicker than the others and 3M has all the patents and R+D on it. THe newer materials are thinner. But this is due to 3M's patent restrictions. It comes with a 5 year warranty. I saw a car hood with 3M on the fenders and LLumar on the hood. He used Llumar or Venture shield on full hoods as it comes wider than 3M. The demarcation line was somewhat less noticeable with the Llumar but not so much more than the 3M. Llumar and VentureShield cannot be buffed out if scuffed or badly hit by a stone - the thicker 3M can.

Best of all, if you don't like it, it comes off easily with no damage to the paint.

I'll post photos after pick up on Thursday.


Now onto the Mobridge, Tooki, Denison BlueTooth / iPod issues.

not sure if I am a member of this club but I took the cheap route:

Bought a new 2003 SL500 with AMG sport package [faux AMG], garage kept with less than 5000 miles on it: beautiful mint condition

only worth about $30k now, but it is the same body style so if you don't get too close you cannot tell :)

I drive like Mark B so the extra horsepower is not needed!

Nice car, Mark. I love the look of those SLs.... I am not a racer so much. I really bought the car to tool around in on weekends and because I simply like looking at it in my garage. It's my baby. I've wanted this car since I was a kid. So I'm not going to beat it up too badly!;)

You putting it on Hood, Front Fender, and Mirrors I assume? Anywhere else?

... And the door handles (finger nail scratches).

We'll see on Thursday.

Who's doing the work for you Jeff?

I have a left over 2007 that I bought late last year. The guys I checked with this spring were booked 8 to 10 weeks out before they could get to me.

Who's doing the work for you Jeff?

I have a left over 2007 that I bought late last year. The guys I checked with this spring were booked 8 to 10 weeks out before they could get to me.

Paintshield in Wixom is doing the clear bra.

Where in Michigan are you? Sounds like your economy is booming!!!

Did you have an iPod/Bluetooth installed? Who did you use?

Jeff,

Mind if I ask what they charge for the 3M Clear Bra with installation?

Jeff,

Mind if I ask what they charge for the 3M Clear Bra with installation?

I paid $900 for entire front bumper, front fenders to 6" from the peak of the headlamp, 1/2 the hood, side view mirrors and door handle area. I think Michigan is expensive when I check around other forums.

I've had this one for years, 465 at the wheels in 2,900 lb trim. This thing is a handful but it does get your mind right.


Closing on a 996tt w/x50, hopefully by the end of the week. These will never be collectors, but can't see how they can go down any further either.

Paintshield in Wixom is doing the clear bra.

Where in Michigan are you? Sounds like your economy is booming!!!

Did you have an iPod/Bluetooth installed? Who did you use?I'm about 30 miles from you, between Brighton and Ann Arbor. The economy isn't booming on this side of town either, but there are some great deals to be had on nice rides.

I checked with the guy in Plymouth and another guy in Redford/Westland. They were both booked up this spring which surprised me too. I called Wixom at the same time, but they never called back. Then summer got in the way. Are you a member of either of the Porsche clubs?

No iPod hook-up; I'm ashamed to say I use a Monster iCarPlay FM transmitter for that purpose. It works OK and I really prefer good ole CD's.

Your price is consistent with the quote I got from the other guys.

Very cool car

Congrats on the car, Jeff. My office partner showed me a Florida dealer's website that has a couple of low-mileage 997 turbos for sale. I've always quipped that I'd have a Porsche turbo by age 40 and that age is coming up! With the exchange rate favourable and the prices dropping it's probably going to happen. Rumour has it that drug dealers in Florida buy these expensive cars with cash to launder money and then sell them at a discount. I'll check the glovebox for any white powder before buying.

My brother has had the 3M bra on his Infinity for the past 4 months with zero problems. I believe this stuff is similar to the new cell phone screen protectors (Zagg, etc.) which was developed for shipping propellers for the military (both are urethane films backed by a light adhesive). I'm assuming that you (or they) will clay bar the car to get the paint super-clean prior to film application...

Peter,
How did the NAV install go?
I understand that the turbo has fibre optic so if you change the Nav you must bypass the turbo's fiber optics and add a amp? Is this correct?
Thanks in advance.
Ash

Peter,
How did the NAV install go?
I understand that the turbo has fibre optic so if you change the Nav you must bypass the turbo's fiber optics and add a amp? Is this correct?
Thanks in advance.
Ash

Hi Ash,
That is true for the Bose upgraded sound package. I got the same explanation. I'm not sure what year Peter's turbo is. If is older it may not be fibre optic. You need to add new speakers all around with the current 997 cars due to the fibre optics. I believe the Kenwood head unit already has an amp built into it.

Jeff,
I in this case nav install is a big hassle....
Thanks,
Ash

Needs a new amp, but speakers are fine. Old amp appears to "mate" somehow with the old head unit. Must have something to do with the GPS - but it is not standard. Sound on the Bose is horrible (all marketing - not audio quality improvements). Should have it, and some pictures to post tomorrow.

My AWE 650S Install finished today takes the Turbo from Stock 480 HP to 650HP with a flashloader for GIAC Tune when used at Race Fuel 100 Octane to 700HP.... the car is truly transformed. The sound of the exhaust is perfectly to my liking both with top up or down on my CAB. The hardware was installed by Porsche of Houston (they kept the car two days) and I am very pleased with thier professionalism and the technician who did it (Thanks forum member ECLOU for leading me in the right direction). I understand that they had to grind of the plastic as the angle of the AWE Intercooler is different than the stock intercooler.
The GIAC Flash was done today and was a nightmare with GIAC giving a run around to the installer for two hours for the software key and before that computer issues... it took four hours to get soehting done which could be done in 30 minutes.
We could not install the Tips as AWE shipped two tips for the right side (instead of one for right and other for left), this will be done at a later date.
After the GIAC was flashed the Check Engine light disappeared.
The car is running way smoother than stock and is frighteningly aggressive... just could not stop smiling driving this evening on the freeway... I have never driven any vehicle like this before - great job AWE.
Here are some pictures of the install sans the tips:
http://i676.photobucket.com/albums/vv130/todo09/DSC02745.jpg
http://i676.photobucket.com/albums/vv130/todo09/DSC02747.jpg

Holy Crap Ash!! That's a lot of horse power! Looks like a lot of surgery. I look forward to hearing your new 0-60 and 1/4 mile! Congrats!!

That's a beautiful thing, who needs heat in Houston. Does it still have warranty?

Jeff... Thanks...the difference is not in 0-60 but in torque.... and thats what matters more than HP.
G9386: That is why I had Porsche Houston do the Job (warranty).
The AWE 650 s comes with a flash loader with which you can flash your ECU to stock, Race, pump valet etc etc.so you can flush ECU to stock before taking it to dealer.

Is that the kit that retains the stock turbos?

I'm getting my first water cooled turbo (996) soon, really looking forward to it. I just coudn't lift my leg high enough for the new model, already have too much iron now:rolleyes:

Stock Turbos... Yes.... But you can replace the Turbos and it becomes AWE 750Kit a whopping 750HP on Pump Gas and 800 on Race.

Jeff... Thanks...the difference is not in 0-60 but in torque.... and thats what matters more than HP.
G9386: That is why I had Porsche Houston do the Job (warranty).
The AWE 650 s comes with a flash loader with which you can flash your ECU to stock, Race, pump valet etc etc.so you can flush ECU to stock before taking it to dealer.

Very true. The chipped Turbo that I had was a much better performer.Great pics of a beautiful job, by the way.

David

David,
Thanks
The car is phenomenal.... I am spoilt with the power....
I would recommend a GAIC tune to the ECU to everyone... it is inexpensive and the car transforms as turbo lag vanishes.
Ash.

David,
Thanks
The car is phenomenal.... I am spoilt with the power....
I would recommend a GAIC tune to the ECU to everyone... it is inexpensive and the car transforms as turbo lag vanishes.
Ash.

Wow, you go all out with your hobbies, Ash! I'm excitedly waiting for the Cdn dollar to come close to the US dollar before pouncing on a 997 turbo.

Ash, is the drivetrain up to the task of dealing with the extra power? I haven't looked at the details of the AWE upgrade you did, but I must confess that I'm amazed that they could squeeze that much extra output from the stock turbos. I can look it up, but if you have a moment can you detail what exactly changed with the kit you put on your car (i.e. intercooler, airflow...)?
I've never driven a stock 997, was there THAT much difference going from the stock one with 0-60 of 3.7 and sub-12sec 1/4 mile to the 650hp one?

I have a programmable upgrade like you describe on my M Roadster - if you need to take the car in for service you can reflash it back to stock. But that only added 20hp or so, nowhere near what you're talking about.

Bogg,
This is the best time to buy a TT as prices have crashed (no one buying) and 2010 models coming out dealers are discounting.
AWE tests all these mods on 997 Turbos and ensure for example the drivetrain can sustain the mod, check out thier site.

From AWE website:
Our 650S package is our intermediate power offering, and fits the needs of most 997TT owners out there. Further, this package can be a logical stepping stone to our acclaimed 750R kit, as all of the components can be reused at that next power level.:D

Highlights of this kit:

A.W.E. Tuning 997TT Muffler with German HJS Catalysts
321 Stainless Steel A.W.E. Tuning 997TT Headers
CAD/CFD Developed A.W.E. Tuning 997TT Intercooler Kit
Large Bore A.W.E. Tuning 997TT Throttle Body
Proprietary GIAC Software with Handheld Switching Feature

The 0 to 60 in a stock TT Tiptronic is 3.4 sec so the 650 package does not improve on this. It does refine the way you get to 0 to 60 and improves 60 to above times. But more than that the car just slingshots at any speed but in a very smooth way with exhausts playing a very throaty note.

I am a lowly Tiptronic daily driver of a TT with 650 package. Most people with these mods have 6 speed manual TT's and they track these cars and abuse the heck out of them so the system and Porsches are designed to take way more abuse.

The 20 hp boost is what you get by flashing the cars computer with Giac and this what you have, I am sure that in my system the hardware takes it to 630 hp and the flash adds 20 Hp but remember torque is movr important than Hp.

Here is another picture of the install.
http://i676.photobucket.com/albums/vv130/todo09/DSC02739.jpg

Thanks for the info Ash. It's astonishing to see the price drop. There's a dealer up
here (near Toronto) with a couple of 2007s and a 2008 but the prices are way too high.
For example, he's asking for 150k for the 2008. It's got lowered springs and an aftermarket exhaust but is otherwise stock.

How much does the AWE kit cost? How much for install roughly?

thanks

Not in the states prices of 2008 TT has dropped drastically may even overshadow US$ to Can $ conversion....
I feel though that inventories are falling rapidly and soon the deals will be gone.
Porsche has reduced production of new curs especially 997 TT greatly to keep supplies tight and as dealers do not want inventory.
I feel that after December there will be not many deals left.
The AWE kit costs 15k US and install was about 1500.
Check the 6speedonline forum one of the members in Calgary just installed this kit.

Sorry it took so long. Weather here has been quite bad the last couple of days. Still overcast, but decided to take some snaps anyway.

Install went perfect - looks extremely factory new install. Even my Porsche dealer was impressed.

Sound is smiles ahead of the Porsche system - didn't change out any speakers. Voice control of everything is very nice when highway driving.

Also plays DVDs and has complete control over sound-field, Dolby Digital, DTS, crossovers, etc. Very complete in this regard - almost too much so for a car system. Remote control (included) is silly for this type of car - but what the hell. Had all connectors put into central console - iPod, USB, AV. Can read data (Divx) or audio files from a Hard Drive or burned DVD.

XM Radio is much nicer than in my Honda or Acura. More screens and a sort by category feature which I've never seen.

Still configuring some of the more esoteric functions - but having a blast. Do you like the Porsche emblem I put in as a background?

(Note: slot below is for older Porsche Nav DVD. This is coming out as soon as I get a blank pocket from Porsche to put in there.)

911 TT
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs145.snc1/5374_1204123351215_1472553073_30539823_7365987_n.jpg

Kenwood Installed
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs145.snc1/5374_1204123111209_1472553073_30539817_1290603_n.jpg

Kenwood (XM Screen)
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs125.snc1/5374_1204123151210_1472553073_30539818_6204676_n.jpg

Kenwood (Nav Screen - Garmin)
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs125.snc1/5374_1204123191211_1472553073_30539819_1331103_n.jpg

Kenwood (iPod Screen - note album art)
http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs145.snc1/5374_1204123231212_1472553073_30539820_1263426_n.jpg

Kenwood (Phone Screen - imported phonebook fine)
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs145.snc1/5374_1204123271213_1472553073_30539821_5070886_n.jpg

Kenwood (Source Select Screen)
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs145.snc1/5374_1204123311214_1472553073_30539822_648218_n.jpg

Pretty cool Peter.

Ash, thanks again for the info. The AWE stuff looks AWESOME! I'm pumped for getting a 2007 or 2008 for a good price. Not sure what the difference is between the 2 years, but it looks like there are a number of each of them out there.

Jeff, sorry for hijacking your thread!

Pretty cool Peter.

Ash, thanks again for the info. The AWE stuff looks AWESOME! I'm pumped for getting a 2007 or 2008 for a good price. Not sure what the difference is between the 2 years, but it looks like there are a number of each of them out there.

Jeff, sorry for hijacking your thread!

No problem. It is O/T!

That install does look very nice. You have me second guessing my Mobridge.

How did they so closely match up the plastic around your Kenwood to the rest of the console? Was that a Porsche blank?

Peter: Awesome Install of the Kenwood.
Bogg: The 2007 (arrived mid 2007) and 2008 model are same 2009 model is same as 2008 but with different Nav.
2010 now announced due to arrive late 2009 will be facelifted (only minor changes chrome headlight and led lights) but will have PDK and 500 hp.
My suggestion is to get a low mileage 2008 as the kinks from launch in 2007 will be out and prices would be great.
I bet Jeff does not mind the hijack, he loves a good discussion. . . .

Also, how is the BlueTooth?

My 3M shield looks great! I'll post some pix... But there were some previous stone chips that just don't look great. The guy tried to touch them up but the 3M shield seemed to highlight the paint chips.

I may just remove the 3M shield from the hood and have the hood re-sprayed / painted and start over. Called our local high end paint shop. $450 to feather out all the chips, paint, buff, etc.

The seams though look great! In certain lights, You can see some stippling (orange peal) but you have to be looking for it and be within a few feet to notice. I consider it a non issue.

Jeff,

Bluetooth is great. Also supports AD2P audio streaming from the iPhone if you do not want to connect to the doc. Phone sounds amazing since it is built into the radio not an add-in. Some people I have called assumed I was calling from a landline since it is so clear. Nice thing is you can change the volume for the radio, nav, and phone all independantly. Also the internal mic is noise-cancelling and speed sensitive so it will change depending on the noise level (like when the top or windows are open). The plastic is the standard 2-din than comes with the unit. Fits and matches perfectly. Really a tremendous unit. (note: you can see voice command button to the left of the unit under the dash)

Love to see the 3M on your car. Considering it myself, but may go with the Ventureshield instead - don't know yet. Prices here are being quoted a bit higher than I would like at $1,200. Still looking for a good installer at a reasonable price. Did you have the car clay-barred first?

PS - I would rethink the Mobridge. Check the forums for problems people are having with it.

Jeff,

Bluetooth is great. Also supports AD2P audio streaming from the iPhone if you do not want to connect to the doc. Phone sounds amazing since it is built into the radio not an add-in. Some people I have called assumed I was calling from a landline since it is so clear. Nice thing is you can change the volume for the radio, nav, and phone all independantly. Also the internal mic is noise-cancelling and speed sensitive so it will change depending on the noise level (like when the top or windows are open). The plastic is the standard 2-din than comes with the unit. Fits and matches perfectly. Really a tremendous unit. (note: you can see voice command button to the left of the unit under the dash)

Love to see the 3M on your car. Considering it myself, but may go with the Ventureshield instead - don't know yet. Prices here are being quoted a bit higher than I would like at $1,200. Still looking for a good installer at a reasonable price. Did you have the car clay-barred first?

I didn't do anything special. The installer simply told me he would fully prep the vehicle. I didn't go crazy about it as it is a car with a few miles on it and the hood was already chipped up a bit. I will likely repaint as I just don't like the chips and how the 3M exacerbated their look.

The Ventureshield costs less adn the sheets are large enough to do a full hood. The 3M requires a special order piece.

Jeff: Tooki Bluetooth works perfectly, in fact bettar than my factory blue tooth ready previous car M6 Cab.
My Turbo has 3M Bra....
Ash

Is the Tooki like the others which integrate with the current Porsche radio? If so, I would skip it entirely. First, there is a problem with the address book, as the Porsche radio will limit you to 250 entries - not enough for my phone list. Second, the voice control is not as good as it is limited only to the phone system, and not the rest of the interface. Look, for not too much more, you can have it all ;-)

(Isn't that always the case?)

Peter,
I am with you... my Turbo came with the Tooki.... If I was installing I would go your route...
Ash

3M Clear Bra. I had to compress the pix a bit so it is very difficult to see. It is about 5" above the lights.

http://www.winglake.com/images/components_current/DSC03831.jpg

http://www.winglake.com/images/components_current/DSC03832.jpg
The Silver line above on the left side of the hood is not the clear bra line but a reflection of a metal storage rack in the car.

Sorry guys but this is a real 911 ... air cooled and upright headlights :p

http://i281.photobucket.com/albums/kk201/PeterWM/porsche/964C4Targa.jpg

Dead link

I didn't do anything special. The installer simply told me he would fully prep the vehicle. I didn't go crazy about it as it is a car with a few miles on it and the hood was already chipped up a bit. I will likely repaint as I just don't like the chips and how the 3M exacerbated their look.

The Ventureshield costs less adn the sheets are large enough to do a full hood. The 3M requires a special order piece.One installer that I talked with suggested that you can apply touch-up paint to the top of the film and hide the chipped paint. He went on to say that he preferred to get the car new from the dealer for optimum results; said it's almost always a problem if the car has been driven.

Don't know if its of help but these guys pre-cut 3M as kits. http://www.invisiblemask.com/cgi-bin/products_ip/browser.cgi?prevtype=Automobiles+and+light+trucks&prevyear=2006&prevmake=PORSCHE&prevmodel=911&prevsubmodel=&prevseries=&type=Automobiles+and+light+trucks&year=2006&make=PORSCHE&model=911&submodel=CARRERA+4S

Jeff,

I haven't posted pics before, but the link to photobucket works for me both at home and here at work. Any idea what I'm doing wrong ?

The photo is of my '91 964 C4 Targa.

Thanks for this thread Jeff! Never knew about the 3M clear bra until this thread. We just bought a 09 Mercedes last night and are having it done at the dealership. :) It does have two tiny stone chips so we'll see...

Like the look of the pre-cut material. Asked them to send a small sample to compare to the VentureSheild and 3M samples I have already. Might be a good way to go. Looks very similar to putting a ZAGG shield on your portable electronics.

I learnt a new thing today from my detailer... he told me that if you guys ever hand wax the car or take it to a place to wax the car make sure the person doing the job knows what he doing. You should never wax the clear Bra and make sure that the wax does not get stuck in the lines of the bra as it will dry and will look like a line of dust. Also, my cars black plastic around the area below the exhaust pipes was waxed and it is now discolored (white). If this happens you can use dressing to get the black color black but the dressing lasts only two weeks. Best solution is to change the plastic (Yikes!).
Here are some pictures - Detailed...
http://i676.photobucket.com/albums/vv130/todo09/DSC02766.jpg
http://i676.photobucket.com/albums/vv130/todo09/DSC02796.jpg
http://i676.photobucket.com/albums/vv130/todo09/DSC02794.jpg

Gorgeous... Just gorgeous.

Ash,
Those are really beautiful pictures. The Porsche looks magnificent.

Thanks guys , I am lovin the 'Malachite green' special order color.

Very nice color, Ash. Here in New England it seems like everyone has silver and other nondistinguishing conservative colors. You made a terrific point about the waxing of the bra by the way. I was at a BMW dealer yesterday and they had a used 550 on the lot with the 3M bra and it absolutely looked awful as someone had waxed along the line where the bra ended and it REALLY stood out.

Made me wonder why anyone would get one of these bras. I guess I'm of the opinion that I'd rather see a couple of small paint chips that can be touched up than that. The German cars paint that I've owned (BMW/Porsches) seem to be pretty resistant to chips (BMW uses a 7 layer paint system) so honestly don't know if I'd pick one of these up as they are so infrequent. Perhaps if you live in a bad area for stones or do a lot of highway driving it may be different.

Decided against any of these after talking to my dealer. Here was his take:

Clear Bra: $1,200 (expensive here)
Paint Touch Up: $500 (Porsche paint)

Basically, doesn't make sense financially unless you are planning a lot of highway driving in an area with a lot of loose gravel. Better to touch up or repair the paint once or twice if it gets really bad I think.

Still investigating though. What are your thoughts?

We paid $500 (Canadian, plus 13% tax) for the 3M product at the Mercedes dealership.

So what's the "workaround" with the wax build up issue?

The new car has two tiny stone chips out of the top and colour coat, to show for it's 10K miles. I'll post some up close pictures late Saturday, once we take pocession of it.

Now, if I could get it for $500 here in the states, installed, I would probably go for it.

The question is where in the Chicago North Suburbs would do it and do a good job for that price.

Now, if I could get it for $500 here in the states, installed, I would probably go for it.

The question is where in the Chicago North Suburbs would do it and do a good job for that price.

I called around. 0% chance of $500 - at least in the 'economically hit hard' metro Detroit area.

Just clear bra'd my '10 Nissan GT-R. As someone noted above need to be careful with waxing near the edges as the wax does build up. Also apparently you have to be careful with the type of wax you use. Apparently some yellow wax's can yellow the clear bra a bit. Luckily on a darker car you won't notice yellowing as much. Also, if you're going to respray the hood I'd highly recommend paying for the full hood treatment. The guys that did my car do custom work. Use a huge sheet and cut as they apply the film and they roll the edges under the hood so the hood is seamless. Super smooth and no orange peel. I was really pleased with their work though it was much more than the prices noted so far. A FAQ from their website below if anyone is interested. Mainly promotes their services but does have a tiny blurb about waxing. They also have a few porsches in their gallery.

http://www.premiermobilegroup.com/paint_protection_film_faq.shtml

Decided against any of these after talking to my dealer. Here was his take:

Clear Bra: $1,200 (expensive here)
Paint Touch Up: $500 (Porsche paint)

Basically, doesn't make sense financially unless you are planning a lot of highway driving in an area with a lot of loose gravel. Better to touch up or repair the paint once or twice if it gets really bad I think.

Still investigating though. What are your thoughts?

PeterS,

Depends on how anal you are, imho. I don't know/haven't heard of any significant negatives to a clear bra outside of costs. Besides rock chips it'll also protect against bug juices and other stains. Plus with a Porsche you'll have great resale value. Would be nice to just take off the bra and have pretty much factory fresh paint for the new owner (that's why I'd clear the whole hood. Less chance of uneven paint wear on the hood). Plus it just feels nice. Smooth and slick feel all the time. Quick spray with a quick detailer and you're good to go. Just a thought. Hope I'm not wrong and melting my paint.

Here in Houston, freeways often have debris or stuff fall off pickup trucks and hit the front bumper. My M6 cab had a big piece of plywood hit the bumper a few months ago.
For those who track thier cars Bra is a must.

Here in Houston, freeways often have debris or stuff fall off pickup trucks and hit the front bumper. My M6 cab had a big piece of plywood hit the bumper a few months ago. You can barely notice the bra unless you look closely.
For those who track thier cars Bra is a must.

Based on your driving conditions, Ash, I'd recommend a slight upgrade to the 3M bra and use this Mad Max 4M bra as shown on this Carrera S Cabriolet. It's warranteed and guaranteed to withstand tough southwestern driving conditions. You can barely notice the bra unless you look very closely.




















http://img190.imageshack.us/img190/9672/madmex2.jpg

Based on your driving conditions, Ash, I'd recommend a slight upgrade to the 3M bra and use this Mad Max 4M bra as shown on this Carrera S Cabriolet. It's warranteed and guaranteed to withstand tough southwestern driving conditions. You can barely notice the bra unless you look very closely.

http://img190.imageshack.us/img190/9672/madmex2.jpg

Scrolled down, read your comment, did not see picture, saw "mad max 4M" and thought WTF, scrolled down little more, then pee'd my pants. LMAO.

Thanks guys , I am lovin the 'Malachite green' special order color.

Very nice. More importantly, how are you enjoying the 650hp? :D

I had no idea you lived in the Houston area Ash, when I saw your picture it immediately made me think of River Oaks.

Found a couple of places willing to do the 3M for between $500 - $600 installed. Checking them out.

Any suggestions on questions to ask?

This process is all installer experience and skill. Have they done hundreds of Porsche's?

This process is all installer experience and skill. Have they done hundreds of Porsche's?

Agreed. If possible I'd ask to see some of their other work. You can see some of the mistakes made by some installers here: http://www.premiermobilegroup.com/gallery_competitors_work.shtml.
Gives you some stuff to look for as poor installs. If you're doing a precut then it shouldn't be that difficult since it just applying a computer cut pattern. But any custom installs you really need to screen your installer. It means close razor blades to your toy as the installer works with the film.

Sorry for the ramble. Just had this done so I'm all excited. Came back for my 30 day recheck/touch up on the film and they were working on a Ferrari F430 today. Replacing his old film from another installer with their own work. Nice 70ish yo gentleman that put 12000 miles on his '06 F430 bought new. Still tracks it too. This is how I hope my experienced years are spent.

600 looks like a good price, my installertold me $695!

New Car

I've had a good look at the work Mercedes did in the daylight, and darn if I can find the two stone chips under the Clearbar. They may have touched up the chips but the work is flawless. Then again, the dealership had a $279K Benz and a Maybach on the showroom floor, so we were in good hands.

So Jeff, what did you ever do about your Bluetooth and iPod integration?

Still debating a ful head unit like your or the MObridge. The Mobridge will run me $1100 installed. PRetty steep.

I'd like the head unit but I have no confidence in my local installers. I have no dedicated place around here who are dealers who I feel comfortable with. The head unit will be more costly, but offers so much more.

Still debating. How far was your dealer from Detroit? I'd drive it if not too far and spend a day.

The installer was Abt Electronics - well worth the trip if you haven't been there in a while, some great stuff. Ask for Don Jr. in the automotive bay, he is the one you want doing the job. Did mine and it was/is perfection.

If you arrange for a weekend install, he could do it in a day, as he did mine, and perhaps I could pull together an impromptu HT Meet.

Give him a call, (888) 228-5800 and let me know what you think. I put in the top-of-the-line Kenwood with the backup camera and XM radio. If you mention my name he will know what the deal is.

I drove my friend's C4S a couple of weeks ago - nice car, good power etc...
Yesterday I got to drive a 2007 911 turbo. Went out with the salesman driving first (older guy in his 50s who was also an experienced track guy). When he told me to "hang on" he wasn't kidding - it really does take off. Man did he take the corners fast and it just stuck to the road.

I wasn't nearly as slick driving it. I kept on bouncing off the rev limiter in first gear. There's just a touch of lag at lower rpms, and that's the main difference between this and say a Corvette C6 Z06.
There was another one on the lot with a Tubi exhaust (I think) and it really does sound better than stock. Unfortunately, the prices at this dealer were a little too high so I didn't get it...I'll keep looking at ebay. With the money I'd save buying there I'd consider the AWE power upgrade (mainly for lag reduction, but the extra thrust doesn't hurt - other than when you get a speeding ticket). Fun car for sure.