Towing Information / Towing Eye

Overview

This guide explains how to locate, install, and use the towing eye on a Porsche 944 S / S2 with the 16v engine. The towing eye is essential for safely towing the vehicle during breakdowns or track events, ensuring no damage to the body or chassis. Proper installation is critical for the S / S2 variant due to its unique front-end design.

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Tools Required

• 13mm wrench
• Screwdriver (flathead, optional for bumper cover removal)
• Towing eye (stored in the tool kit or spare wheel compartment)

Parts Required

•  Towing eye (compatible with 944 S2) – 996 721 151 00

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Locate the Towing Eye Mount

1. Park the Porsche 944 S / S2 on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Inspect the front bumper on the passenger side (right side for left-hand drive models). Look for a small, removable plastic cover near the fog light.
3. Use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry off the cover, revealing the threaded towing eye mount. On the S / S2, this is integrated into the reinforced front chassis rail.

Step 2: Install the Towing Eye

4. Retrieve the towing eye from the tool kit or spare wheel compartment in the rear hatch.
5. Align the towing eye with the threaded mount. The S / S2 uses a metric thread specific to Porsche models.
6. Turn the towing eye clockwise by hand until it begins to catch the threads.
7. Use a 13mm wrench to tighten the towing eye securely. Tighten to approximately 20 Nm (15 ft-lbs) to ensure it’s firm but avoid over-tightening, which could damage the threads.

Step 3: Prepare for Towing

8. Ensure the towing eye is fully seated and doesn’t wobble when tugged.
9. Attach the tow rope or strap to the towing eye, ensuring it’s rated for the S / S2’s weight of approximately 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs).
10. If towing from the rear, repeat the process at the rear towing mount, located under the rear bumper on the driver’s side (left side for left-hand drive models).

Step 4: Remove the Towing Eye

11. After towing, use the 13mm wrench to loosen the towing eye by turning counterclockwise.
12. Remove it by hand once loose and store it back in the tool kit or spare wheel compartment.
13. Replace the plastic cover on the bumper by pressing it back into place until it clicks.

Post Procedure Checklist

• Check that the towing eye is removed and stored properly.
• Inspect the bumper cover to ensure it’s securely reattached.
• Verify the towing mount threads for any damage or debris.

Sources

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