Transaxle Installation

Overview

This guide walks you through installing the transaxle on a Porsche 944 S / S2 with a 16v engine. The transaxle connects the engine to the rear wheels via the torque tube and drive shaft. Proper installation ensures your S / S2’s drivetrain operates smoothly and reliably, making this a key step after repairs like clutch replacement or transaxle servicing.

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Tools Required

• Metric wrench set
• Metric socket set
• Floor jack
• 8mm Allen head socket
• 8mm Cheesehead tool

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Position the Transaxle

1. Using a floor jack, lift the transaxle into position against the torque tube bellhousing.

Step 2: Reconnect the Shift Linkage

2. Insert the shift linkage rod protective tube into the transaxle case, ensuring the retainer is fully seated.
3. Guide the shift linkage rod back until it engages the transaxle intermediate shaft. Apply Loctite to the shift rod retaining bolt, install it with a wrench, and torque to 21 Nm (15 ft-lbs). Secure the bolt with steel lock wire.

Step 3: Reattach the Drive Shaft

4. Through the access opening in the bottom of the transaxle bellhousing, slide the clamping collar over the drive shaft splines, aligning it with the marks made during removal. Torque the Allen head retaining bolt to 80 Nm (58 ft-lbs) using an 8mm Allen head socket.
5. Reinstall the transaxle bellhousing covers.

Step 4: Secure the Transaxle to the Chassis

6. Install the two M10 transaxle support cross-member bolts and torque to 46 Nm (34 ft-lbs) with a 10mm wrench. Reattach the fuel filter to the cross-member.
7. Secure the transaxle case to the torque tube bellhousing with the nuts and bolts. Torque M12 fasteners to 85 Nm (62 ft-lbs) and M10 fasteners to 42 Nm (30 ft-lbs) using a wrench.

Step 5: Reconnect the CV Joints and Wiring

8. If your S / S2 has an electronic speedometer, reconnect the speedometer sensor cable at the transaxle.
9. Reconnect the backup light wires near the top of the transaxle.
10. Reattach the CV joints to the transaxle and torque the bolts to 41 Nm (30 ft-lbs) using an 8mm Cheesehead tool.

Step 6: Finalize the Shift Linkage

11. Reconnect the shift linkage to the shift lever inside the vehicle.
12. Reassemble the shifter console in reverse order of its removal, ensuring all clips and trim pieces are securely in place.

Post Procedure Checklist

• Check that the shift linkage moves smoothly and engages all gears.
• Verify the CV joints and drive shaft are secure with no play.
• Ensure no leaks from the transaxle or torque tube connections.
• Test the backup lights and speedometer (if applicable) for proper function.
• Take the car for a short test drive of about 5 miles (8 km) to confirm everything operates correctly.

Sources

• Clark’s Garage
• Pelican Parts
• Porsche 944 Workshop Manual, Volume 1
• Youtube