DME Control Unit Installation – 2.5L NA

Overview

This procedure outlines the steps to install the DME (Digital Motor Electronics) control unit on all Porsche 944 variants with an 8-valve engine, covering pre-1985.5 (83-85.5) and 1985.5 onwards (86-88) models. The DME control unit manages fuel and ignition systems, and proper installation is essential for ensuring optimal engine performance. This guide is specific to the 8-valve engine configuration and excludes Turbo model instructions.

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Tools Required

• Phillips Head Screwdriver
• 13mm (1/2 inch) open end wrench

Parts Required

• DME Control Unit (944 618 111 00 for Pre-85.5, 944 618 111 02 for 85.5 Onwards)
• Battery terminal clamp (944 611 011 00)

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Verify Battery Disconnection

1. Ensure the negative battery lead is disconnected to prevent electrical shorts during installation. If not already disconnected, use a 13mm (1/2 inch) open end wrench to loosen and remove the negative battery lead (terminal clamp, 944 611 011 00) from the battery.

Step 2: Connect the Wiring Harness to the DME Control Unit

2. Position the DME control unit (944 618 111 00 for Pre-85.5, 944 618 111 02 for 85.5 Onwards) in its mounting location.
3. Connect the wiring harness to the DME control unit:

• Insert the hooked end of the wiring harness connector (opposite the wiring harness) into the slot on the DME control unit plug.

• Swing the connector down into the control unit plug until the retaining clip latches securely.

Step 3: Mount the DME Control Unit

4. Mount the DME control unit in its original location based on your model year:

For Pre-85.5 models:

• Position the DME control unit under the dashboard, to the left of the steering column.

• Secure the unit with the two mounting bolts using a Phillips head screwdriver.

For 85.5 Onwards models:

• Position the DME control unit in the passenger footwell.

• Secure the unit’s mounting bracket with the two screws and two plugs using a Phillips head screwdriver.

• Reinstall the wooden panel in the passenger footwell with the four screws using a Phillips head screwdriver.

• Reposition the carpet in the passenger footwell.

Step 4: Reconnect the Battery

5. Reconnect the negative battery lead (terminal clamp, 944 611 011 00) to the battery using a 13mm (1/2 inch) open end wrench. Tighten to 15 Nm (11 ft-lbs).

Post Procedure Checklist

• Verify that the DME control unit is securely mounted and all screws or bolts are tightened.
• Ensure the wiring harness connector is firmly latched to the DME control unit plug.
• Check that the battery negative lead is securely connected and tightened to 15 Nm (11 ft-lbs).
• Start the engine and confirm it runs smoothly without error codes or warning lights.
• For 85.5 Onwards models, ensure the passenger footwell carpet and wooden panel are properly reinstalled.

Sources

• Clark’s Garage
• Pelican Parts
• Porsche 944 Workshop Manuals
• YouTube