Other than regular shop tools, there are only two special tools required for replacing Shift Rod Position (Distance) and Speed sensors; a Pusher / Puller Tool kit and a PIWIS (or similar) computer. This section discusses these including how you can obtain them for under $300 total!

For replacing the Clutch or the Pressure Sensors, there are additional tools required in order to remove the clutch. Information on this will be added at a later date together with detailed instructions on how to perform these replacements.

Puller / Pusher Tool Kit

A Puller / Pusher Tool Kit is required to remove the rear case to access the Shift Rod Position (Distance) and Speed sensors. The same tool kit is used to install the case following sensor replacement. The kit is used to pull the bearings, mounted in the case, off the shafts in the transmission and later to press them back on. The kit also includes a special socket needed to remove / install the special nut on the lower shaft in the 987/997 units.

It used to be that you had to build your own tool to perform these tasks, something that can be done inexpensively and without too much difficulty. However, over the last year a professionally made kit has become readily available and prices have dropped steadily. Initially, these could only be ordered from China at around $300 but they are now available from US sellers on ebay and from Amazon. Pricing (as of Dec 2024) is $170. Here's a couple of examples:

ebay

Amazon

There are many sellers but the parts are likely manufactured by one or two entities in China and appear to be the same, just packaged differently. They are all advertised as only applicable for the 718 model but in fact work for all 7-speed PDK units (987, 997, 981, 991 and 718). There are a few minor modifications needed to make them work on 4WD units and a few that will make them a bit easier to use. Please refer to the How To Guides page for details.

Given the quality and price of these kits we see no reason to go down the DIY path any more.

PIWIS Computer

A PIWIS tool is required to do the clutch fluid fill procedure and the calibration function following repairs. It can of course perform a lot of other functions too and should be in the toolbox of anybody doing work on Porsche's. While the tool is prohibitively expensive if purchased directly from Porsche, there are inexpensive aftermarket options available that are capable of almost all the same functions.

While several of the generic scanners on the market (e/g/ Foxwell 530) can perform typical functions, we recommend getting a PIWIS 3 copy to ensure compatibility and complete functionality. To get this working you need a Windows laptop (or one that can run a Windows virtual machine) and an adapter (VAS 6154). Below you'll find instructions on how aquire these and set the computer up.

The instructions provided below should be detailed enough to allow anybody with basic computer skills to get set up. If you don't feel comfortable with this, there are resources out there that sell the equipment and can assist you remotely with the install (see MH Auto Forums). This will of course be a bit more expensive but still quite affordable. Some sellers on AliExpress and other sites offer a complete kit including the computer but you are probably better off buying the software and adapter only and getting a used laptop locally (Facebook Marketplace is a good source). A used Microsoft Surface Pro is a good choice, if combined with a sturdy case, as it runs windows and can be used as tablet if desired but any fairly recent laptop should be OK.

While the instructions below include links to download all required files, the PIWIS are available here:

PIWIS Files

DIY PIWIS Guide.pdf