1986 Porsche 911 Repair Manual

The 1986 Porsche 911 Repair Manual provides comprehensive technical information for maintaining and repairing the iconic air-cooled sports car. This manual covers the 911 Carrera models featuring the 3.2-liter flat-six engine, G50 manual transmission, and classic rear-engine layout. Below are essential sections for maintenance procedures, technical specifications, troubleshooting, and repair guidelines.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Engine Maintenance 3. Transmission Service 4. Brake System 5. Electrical System 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Fuel System 8. Cooling & Heating 9. Body & Interior 10. Tools & Equipment 11. Troubleshooting Guide

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical data for the 1986 Porsche 911 models including engine performance, dimensions, and capacities.

SpecificationDetails
Engine Type3.2L Air-cooled Flat-six
Power Output217 hp @ 5900 rpm
Torque195 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
Transmission5-speed G50 manual
Fuel SystemBosch K-Jetronic
Brake SystemFour-wheel disc brakes
Wheelbase89.4 inches
Curb Weight2,755 lbs
Fuel Capacity21.1 gallons
Oil Capacity12.0 quarts

Engine Maintenance

Regular maintenance procedures for the air-cooled 3.2L engine including oil changes, valve adjustments, and timing.

  1. Oil Change: Drain oil, replace filter (oil cooler included), refill with 20W-50 mineral oil.
  2. Valve Adjustment: Check and adjust valve clearance every 15,000 miles.
  3. Spark Plugs: Replace every 30,000 miles with recommended Bosch plugs.
  4. Ignition Timing: Set to 5° BTDC at idle with vacuum disconnected.
  5. Compression Test: Perform every 60,000 miles to monitor engine health.

WARNING! Engine components become extremely hot during operation. Allow sufficient cooling time before performing maintenance.

Transmission Service

G50 manual transmission maintenance including fluid changes, clutch replacement, and shift linkage adjustment.

  1. Transmission Fluid: Drain and refill with 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil every 30,000 miles.
  2. Clutch Replacement: Inspect clutch disc and pressure plate; replace if worn.
  3. Shift Linkage: Adjust for precise gear engagement and smooth operation.
  4. Transmission Mounts: Check for wear and replace if deteriorated.
  5. CV Joints: Inspect boots and lubricate as needed.

CAUTION! Use proper jack stands when working under vehicle. Transmission components are heavy.

Brake System

Electrical System

Diagnosis and repair of electrical components including charging system, ignition, and lighting.

Battery: 12V 70Ah; maintain clean terminals and proper charge level.

Alternator: Output 90A; test voltage output (13.8-14.4V at 2000 rpm). Starter: Inspect brushes and solenoid operation. Fuse Box: Located under dashboard; use correct amperage fuses. Wiring: Check for corrosion and damaged insulation, especially in engine compartment.

Suspension & Steering

Maintenance of torsion bar suspension, shock absorbers, and power steering system.

  1. Shock Absorbers: Replace if leaking or poor damping performance.
  2. Torsion Bars: Adjust ride height using factory specifications.
  3. Ball Joints: Check for play and replace if worn.
  4. Power Steering: Check fluid level and belt tension.
  5. Wheel Alignment: Set to factory specifications for optimal handling.

Tip: Always perform wheel alignment after suspension component replacement.

Fuel System

Bosch K-Jetronic continuous injection system maintenance and troubleshooting.

  1. Fuel Filter: Replace every 15,000 miles or as needed.
  2. Fuel Pump: Test pressure (75-80 psi) and volume output.
  3. Injectors: Clean or replace if spray pattern is poor.
  4. Warm-up Regulator: Check function for proper cold start operation.
  5. Fuel Lines: Inspect for leaks and deterioration.
  6. Fuel Tank: Clean and inspect for rust or damage.
  7. Air Flow Sensor: Clean and lubricate moving parts.

WARNING! Relieve fuel system pressure before servicing. No smoking or open flames near fuel system work.

Cooling & Heating

Air cooling system maintenance and cabin heating system service.

Body & Interior

Care and maintenance of body panels, paint, and interior components.

CAUTION! Use proper techniques when handling glass and trim to avoid damage.

Tools & Equipment

Special tools required for Porsche 911 service including metric tools, torque wrenches, and factory specialty tools.

Troubleshooting Guide

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Hard startingFuel pressure, ignition timingCheck fuel pump pressure; verify ignition timing and spark.
Poor idleVacuum leaks, dirty injectorsInspect vacuum lines; clean fuel injectors and air flow sensor.
OverheatingOil level, cooling finsCheck oil level and condition; clean engine cooling fins.
Brake vibrationWarped rotors, worn padsResurface or replace brake rotors; install new brake pads.
Electrical issuesGround connections, batteryClean and tighten ground connections; test battery and alternator.

Reset: Disconnect battery for 10 minutes to reset electronic systems if needed.

Service: Contact authorized Porsche service center for complex diagnostics.

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