Porsche 944 Transmission

9-1-2007

Porsche 944 transmissions are known for having a ring and pinion set that will disintegrate with German efficiency.

If (when?) your 944 transmission breaks, it is much cheaper to put in a used transmission. Transmission rebuilds cost a fortune. The ring and pinion gearset alone costs something like $700. Just the parts.

The top picture shows the transaxle with the (13mm) cover bolts removed. You also have to unscrew the allen bolt holding in the axle (6mm hex).

Costs:

• Used 944 transmission, $200 (I got very lucky on this)
• Flatbed to shop, $110 (for a 7-mile trip)
• Shop fees, $558 (somewhat high)

Total $868

Want to try it yourself? I've heard that it's not very difficult to remove the transmission. Here are the Porsche Transmission Removal Instructions and here is a web-writeup.

When replacing the transmission oil, you need a 17mm Allen Socket to unscrew the drain and fill plugs.