This video is very timely as I'm considering both PTV and GT3 steering for my 981S. I'd love a follow up video once you've lived with these changes for a while! Perhaps check out the rear brake wear as well. As long as the PTV doesn't negatively affect anything else in the bowels of the mechanicals since my car doesn't have the diff, I'm definitely tempted to get that switched on...
Hey Brandon. Yes, the steering mod definitely needs time to sink in. I’m interested to see how my brain adapts to the changed assistance - or not! PTV is very subtle, which makes me think the additional wear will be minimal. But we’ll see…
I have very recently changed my Boxster 981S steering to the same GT3 PIWIS setting and working through the differences. I appreciate your comparisons as this is my first Porsche so I don’t have the experience to draw on. More miles will tell. Thank you for a thorough video on this subject.
Hey Barrie. It’s all very interesting isn’t it! As I say in the video, this is very much a ‘do you prefer it?’ change, even without the experience of other cars to draw on. What are your inclinations at this stage?
I wouldn’t say the difference is substantial enough either way to say I love it or revert back to the original settings. It feels a little lighter at slower (manoeuvre speed) and as you said, a little ‘twitchier’ if there is such a word at higher speeds and in a straight line.. I don’t have the torque vectoring on at the moment so that might help focus on the steering without the added input. The Boxster handling is principally so good that the improvements seem marginal. I don’t track the car but I do like to push on when the time and place are suitable. I think tyres are very important (when you read the forums) and mine are due for replacement so perhaps my steering assessment journey will progress more when I change them. Once again thank you for your video, the film work incidentally is very good 👍🏻. Barrie
@@len333p It's a subjective matter, with so many variables! I'm on the fence, presently; I need to put in a few more miles to establish a preference either way. FWIW, I don't think the PTV makes much difference to the steering; it's a subtle effect that you feel through your butt rather than the wheel. Fresh - better - tyres would likely make a greater difference to front axle feel I'd imagine. And then there's geo setup, anti-roll bars, the list goes on. Appreciate your feedback on the film work - thank you. I'm learning a great deal about filming and editing as the project progresses - which I'm enjoying almost as much as the car! 😀
I have honestly got to say my 981 Boxster GTS with these PIWI's 2 mods and Gert's Carnewal GT4 200 cell headers cats, green air filters and OEM 991 Speedster LWB seats, you sit so low, is more enjoyable than Mr Purple, my 991 GT3 RS, on anywhere but a racetrack. The Sport Plus map in PDK manual also adds at least 20 Bhp, I get kickback in the seats changing up at close to max revs
Isn't it wonderful how versatile the base 981 is, that we can tweak and tune, add and modify to our heart's content, creating these wonderful cars that are so much fun to drive. I'm certainly enjoying my Project - and there's plenty more to come.
I successfully had the wipers coded using the MR Sportscars method. Also added reversing camera for the OEM camera and the Sports design kit as adding the centre radiator to a cayman S
Hello! Really chuffed you’ve found this video. I’ve been all over your Rennlist thread for weeks prior to making this change. Thanks for all your hard work and enthusiasm. 👏 So, I have questions…! I love the wiggling and reduced damping (more character; similar to older hydraulic racks in previous cars). My suspicion is that the increased weighting / assistance fall-off is a touch too much for my liking. Have you been able to determine whether any of the other maps keep this closer to the original? Some posts on your thread suggest the GT3 Cup map doesn’t load up quite so much? (My Indy has PIWIS 3, 4. My car is a summer 2015 build.)
@@christianpratt The GT3 and GT3 cup steering ended up being the same exact map. Which I think is kind of cool (motorsports approved haha). Interestingly enough the GT3RS and GT4 maps are both distinct files. My car was an earlier build so I don't have those as possible options when I hook it up to my PIWIS. But people have reported that those maps are slightly lighter while keeping the hydraulic steering characteristics. The logic being that the GT4 map accounts for the midengine weight distribution and that the GT3RS map gives extra assistance to help with the extra wide/sticky tires. It's possible your car will have these as options to toggle through since your car is a later build than mine. I know it was available in my local buddy's 981 GTS. We never played around with it too much because he was immediately happy with the GT3 map. But definitely something worth looking into.
@@SpicyHatchback Excellent - thanks for the further details. 👍 Your analysis of the GT4 and RS maps makes sense - I had started to work that out for myself, as it dawned on me that wider stickier front tyres would merit more assistance, for example. I'll have to investigate further as to whether those options appear on PIWIS 3 for my car. Another viewer has commented that the GT3RS map does indeed retain a little extra assistance (ie. a touch lighter at the wheel - those stickier tyres!) than the GT3 map, so that might well be the answer... More to come I think!
@@christianpratt Have fun! Hopefully you can make time to post your findings on the forums as well. It's always nice to see more nuanced and detailed opinions.
Brilliant video as always. I enjoyed your insights on steering feel. I had a BMW M2 and a G80 M3, and the steering feel on my stock 981 GTS is a million times better, in fact it isn’t comparable. I’ve not had much experience with roadsters and lightweight sports cars like the lotus Exige or Alpine A110, so the Boxsters’ steering was an absolute revelation. I’m now quite curious to try out the hydraulic steering on a 987 Boxster!
Thanks Prashanth - appreciated. The 987's rack is lovely; direct and linear with a well-judged weight and sense of connection to the tyres and road. Worth a try!
I've been wanting to do the GT3 steering setting on my 991.1. Haven't been able to find a PIWIS! Looking forward to trying it, when I get a chance. When it comes time to refresh the suspension, I'll add the GT3 lower control arms to further the experience.
I have a question if anyone knows: does PTV turn off when you turn traction control off? I enjoy the occasional donut or throwing the rear out on 180 turns, mostly in the wet to save tires and other components, and if the PTV interferes with that it has no place on the car
@@christianpratt Not yet - It's on my list - I have only started coding in the last few weeks but the rain sensor is definitely working (2015 981) as they turned on in a shower today. I have the GT3 steering setting active but will revert back soon as a test.
the GT3 RS steering module is massively better, than the GT3 version, I can code this for you in Zurich, plus all the other options, PTV, rear spoiler height & speed, rain sensor and daylight instrument console
Aaah - that's what I wanted to hear Richard - thank you. All of the feel and reduced damping without quite so much of the extra weight as the wheel loads up - I hope! I shall cross my fingers and hope that the RS map is listed for my MY2015 car when I next get to plug it into PIWIS 3. PTV has been done, and I've already had another viewer point to the PIWIS 3 instructions for the rain sensor. Do you know what the water temperature coding does by chance? Seems it enables a different (?) temperature sensor/feed? Would love a trip to Zurich but suspect it might not be immediately practical!
@@andrewjones5900 Hi Andrew. Broadly, this is something that an independent Porsche specialist should be able to do. They will need to have access to the Porsche's workshop PIWIS software/hardware (a laptop and cables, plus the dedicated software), AND - crucially - be willing to undertake the work for you. On which basis it's not as simple as listing independent garages, since there's no easy way to tell whether those two conditions will be met. All that said, I had help from PIE Performance in Suffolk (as an example), and there are many excellent independent specialists up and down the UK that will likely be happy to help. If you need specific recommendations that a local to you, best to ask/check on a forum (Pistonheads, say), or with the Porsche Club Great Britain, for example. I don't believe an OPC (Official Porsche Centre) will likely be interested in this; too 'out of scope' for their liking (and terms of business with Porsche GB!). EDITED: if you type 'porsche independent specialists uk' into google you'll get a decent list of companies by way of a start!
I think that's right Jason - there's no practical downside to PTV for daily driving, spirited or otherwise. (For track use, it's user-beware, I think.) Put it another way, I'm not aware of any forum threads or discussions where owners are choosing to >disable< PTV because it's worsening their ownership experience. 😀
The way I look at the GT3 RS steering module, is my GT3 RS front tyres are about 50% wider than those on my Boxster GTS, this is why it works so well on a Boxster, making the steering like a go cart
Sounds very encouraging. Have you by chance tried the GT4 map? Any notable difference? FWIW, I'm interested in a level of assistance that's at or around the standard 981 map, and a level of (reduced lateral) damping (i.e. a degree of wiggle) that's closer to the GT3 map.
That’s kind - thanks Michael. My Indy charged me for an hour of workshop time which, by the time we’d faffed around with it all, was about right. There’s no direct cost from Porsche. If you can find a friendly enthusiast who has a PIWIS clone then the actual time involved is barely five minutes.
Hey, just to let you know I don’t have the settings for the rain sensing wipers in the menu or sub menu’s, however my wipers are definitely set to rain sensing when setting on intermittent and only come on when it senses the rain as I’ve had on other cars with rain sensing wiper option. Have you tested your wipers since trying the update to see if it actually worked?
Aaaah - thanks Mark. That's interesting. I know the menu exists since another owner has shared some images of it with me. BUT - I'm now wondering whether that menu, as well as the sensors, needs enabling too. Mine are very definitely not working since we didn't even attempt to code them - the PIWIS 2/3 instructions were too different.
@@christianpratt hmm interesting, mine have definitely been coded at some point by a previous owner as they weren’t optioned from new. Hope you figure it out as it’s a great option to have and can’t believe they weren’t a standard feature, that’s Porsche option list for you! 😄
I tried the GT3 EPS programming on my 981 and really didn’t care for how it felt on-center and slightly off-center. It just felt artificial and not suited for the car, IMO. I quickly went back to stock but am curious about trying the GT4 and other options that are available in PIWIS.
Interesting - thanks for sharing. I’m hearing that the GTS RS map is worth a try by comparison, since it moderates the GT3’S more dramatic changes somewhat. Albeit not every 981 has this available - it seems to appear on late 2014 cars onwards.
It is more than $1,000 to buy the full PIWIS 2 kit, inclusive of a dedicated laptop and then you need to have both the laptop and the car on a charger at all times, fortunately, I have an underground garage, I only did it because there were no independents in Switzerland
Great video and great additional flavor in the comments! Im considering the steering change but like you, not sure i want the weight. Coming from the heavy hydraulic of a 986 boxster i very much enjoyed the 981 steering but did feel it could use just a tad more weight. With my back against the wall and a gun to my head id take the 981 steering but hmm.. if there could be something in the middle like the GT3 RS or GT4, i would love to try that. I just hope its available for my 2014 base model. Im going to a shop with the piwis tomorrow to code my PCM for a backup camera and im gonna ask to check whats abailable for my car. I will report back
Hi Cris. Thanks for the comments - glad you found the video useful. If you do find the GT3 RS map available for your car, consider trying that first. I think it might be the better option if you're aiming to retain some of the 981's assistance, but want a touch more colour. Look forward to the report!
@@christianpratt I just got the GT3 RS setting and for me it's the perfect middle ground, exactly what I wanted! there is additional weight but it's not cumbersome. at parkinglot speeds its great and it loads up nicely in the corners. because of the extra weight/force required the car feels a bit more planted because an involuntary flick of the wrist doesnt move it around so easily. I only drove it for a bit and it was in the rain so i couldnt catch other specific nuances but there is a bit more feel coming through the wheel for sure. I would recommend this to anyone who can get it. my 2014 base model was showing all the options with the PIWIS, the GT4 and others but the GT3 RS option feels so right that i dont want to try anything else. I'm glad i came across this video Chris!! what was going to be just a PCM code to allow for a backup camera turned into one of the best mods that perfectly complements everything else i've done to the car. Especially after the numeric short shifter which gave some heft to the controls but made the steering feel out of place. I'm a happy camper!!
@@crisstwok3329 Fantastic Cris! What a great result - and absolutely the feedback I was hoping for too. I will definitely be revising the GT3 map on my car for the RS map instead. It sounds ideal. Glad you've got your car tweaked and improved the way you like it; enjoy!
the rear spoiler height and speed is fun, what is the point of having the rear spoiler go up above 120kmph, its like an advertisement to the police that you have been speeding. Mine is set lower (as have Spyder ducktail spoiler) comes up at 80 kmph, goes down at 40
Aaah - excellent intel Michael. Thank you. That is precisely what I plan to do on the GTS - effectively the same engine and output, after the FVD map has corrected the throttled throttle! I’ll need the 200 cell cats for road use but I understand that they don’t really compromise the power gains. How does the car drive? (By my reckoning, 360 brake brings the power to weight ratio to within a few horses of my old 997.2 C2S - which is perfect for me.)
First of all, please note that 981 S has been throttled back to 315 hp while a cayman GTS with the same engine has been throttled back to 340hp. Basically a 981 boxster S owner has a lot more to gain. All 981 3.4 engines are the same but power output is set by the ECU for the designated model. After the upgrade the first thing that I considered was upgrading the brakes. The power jump from 315 to 360 made me laugh out load and is a must for any 981 owner.
Also remember the base 991 has the same 3.4 L engine and that is also throttled back to 350hp. Of course Porsche was not going to build a new engine for each model, for marketing reasons they have set the ECU for each model. So again a 3.4 L engine has the potential unlocking a lot of power if you have a lower model in the range.
@@michaelcain2867 Good point - which I was sort of aware of, knowing that the block is common. The Boxster GTS is quote as 330 PS (metric) stock, so realistically I can expect roughly a further 10% in power, and a smoother torque curve. Funnily enough I'd also read that a brake upgrade might then be necessary. I'm going to put braided hoses on my stock callipers to start with, but might make the jump to the 991's six-pot callipers and 350mm rotors for the front axle, budget permitting. They'll look better behind the 20 rims, at the very least!
I found this video interesting as have a 981 GT4 and a 991.2 GT3. In an interview when the GT4 was launched, Andreas Preuninger said the steering hardware for the GT4 was out of the GT3, which is no surprise as most of the front axle is .1 GT3. However, he also said the software had been tuned for the GT4. Given the differences between the cars, including, weight placement and RWS is it really that easy to activate GT3 steering on a GTS, when it was “customised” for the GT4?
Thanks for commenting Richard. The short answer is yes: it’s very easy to actually swap the steering map. (Literally a mouse click, once you’re in the PIWIS sub menu.) As to whether it’s appropriate, and whether the intrinsic differences between the rear and mid-engined cars (and all of their suspension, rubber and drivetrain differences) make that map ‘better’, it’s impossible to say. Suffice it to say, it’s only guess work in the forums. Porsche hasn’t ever declared the revisions, so far as I can tell. But it’s easy enough to do and does change the feel of the rack.
I am a pure mechanical novice and an old person ! I own a base model 981 2014 first registered not by me, could you advise me if this modification would work with my base model and would there be any advantages with my car, I am too old to consider upgrading my car but I just enjoy driving mine even if I do not necessarily need to make a drive out.
Hi there. Thanks for watching the video, and for your question. From what you've described, I wouldn't rush to make this change (the steering or the PTV) to your car. The PVT is a marginal change at best; the GT3 steering map is more noticeable, but whether it's better is very much a matter of choice. You'd also have to find a friendly specialist who can do the changes for you. From everything I've read around the subject, your car should certainly have the PTV and EPS options available. Though if you already enjoy your car and how it goes down the road, I wouldn't rush to make these changes for their own sake. (Equally, if you have the time, inclination and a friendly garage, then it's a fun thing to try out. But not essential!)
Thanks for the prompt and helpful reply, I enjoyed your video watching you drive with the modifications, the split screen was good as watching the driver input together with the road you are on really conveyed the feeling of the drive, thanks. I will keep what bit of money I have and spend it on petrol especially as there is constant pressure for seniors like myself to give up driving 😅
@@y9art Useful to hear that the split-screen works - thank you! I'd definitely endorse the fuel-money strategy. That's what they're all about, at the end of the day. Enjoy your driving!
On balance, no. For me, it's easier to work with my local indy garage since they have the laptop & PIWIS hardware and know how to correctly use it more broadly. Plus I don't anticipate making these changes regularly enough to warrant buying my own clone.
13:11 The buttons. The lovely, proper buttons.
@@SeaOfMadness 😀 So many lovely single-function buttons!
Well done on a subject of interest to many of us. Please keep us posted on impressions over time. Nice work!
Thanks Tim - appreciate the comment.
Yes, further thoughts to come!
This video is very timely as I'm considering both PTV and GT3 steering for my 981S. I'd love a follow up video once you've lived with these changes for a while! Perhaps check out the rear brake wear as well. As long as the PTV doesn't negatively affect anything else in the bowels of the mechanicals since my car doesn't have the diff, I'm definitely tempted to get that switched on...
Hey Brandon. Yes, the steering mod definitely needs time to sink in. I’m interested to see how my brain adapts to the changed assistance - or not! PTV is very subtle, which makes me think the additional wear will be minimal. But we’ll see…
Hi Brandon. Happy holidays! Power steering feel update video just published... 😀
@ Thanks for the heads up! I sure wish I had easy access to PIWIS!
I have very recently changed my Boxster 981S steering to the same GT3 PIWIS setting and working through the differences. I appreciate your comparisons as this is my first Porsche so I don’t have the experience to draw on. More miles will tell. Thank you for a thorough video on this subject.
Hey Barrie.
It’s all very interesting isn’t it! As I say in the video, this is very much a ‘do you prefer it?’ change, even without the experience of other cars to draw on.
What are your inclinations at this stage?
I wouldn’t say the difference is substantial enough either way to say I love it or revert back to the original settings. It feels a little lighter at slower (manoeuvre speed) and as you said, a little ‘twitchier’ if there is such a word at higher speeds and in a straight line.. I don’t have the torque vectoring on at the moment so that might help focus on the steering without the added input. The Boxster handling is principally so good that the improvements seem marginal. I don’t track the car but I do like to push on when the time and place are suitable. I think tyres are very important (when you read the forums) and mine are due for replacement so perhaps my steering assessment journey will progress more when I change them. Once again thank you for your video, the film work incidentally is very good 👍🏻. Barrie
@@len333p It's a subjective matter, with so many variables! I'm on the fence, presently; I need to put in a few more miles to establish a preference either way.
FWIW, I don't think the PTV makes much difference to the steering; it's a subtle effect that you feel through your butt rather than the wheel. Fresh - better - tyres would likely make a greater difference to front axle feel I'd imagine. And then there's geo setup, anti-roll bars, the list goes on.
Appreciate your feedback on the film work - thank you. I'm learning a great deal about filming and editing as the project progresses - which I'm enjoying almost as much as the car! 😀
I have honestly got to say my 981 Boxster GTS with these PIWI's 2 mods and Gert's Carnewal GT4 200 cell headers cats, green air filters and OEM 991 Speedster LWB seats, you sit so low, is more enjoyable than Mr Purple, my 991 GT3 RS, on anywhere but a racetrack. The Sport Plus map in PDK manual also adds at least 20 Bhp, I get kickback in the seats changing up at close to max revs
Isn't it wonderful how versatile the base 981 is, that we can tweak and tune, add and modify to our heart's content, creating these wonderful cars that are so much fun to drive.
I'm certainly enjoying my Project - and there's plenty more to come.
Always thought the Cayman and Boxster best of all except maybe for the very best 911's.
I successfully had the wipers coded using the MR Sportscars method. Also added reversing camera for the OEM camera and the Sports design kit as adding the centre radiator to a cayman S
Thanks Jake. Yes, it's the MR video that I've now watched and plan to replicate.
Hope you get the central radiator plumbed in easily enough!
Hi Jake. Wiper sensor now enabled! 😀
Hey I'm nhnguy12 haha. Glad to see the GT3 steering and PTV activation gaining some more exposure beyond the forums.
Hello! Really chuffed you’ve found this video. I’ve been all over your Rennlist thread for weeks prior to making this change. Thanks for all your hard work and enthusiasm. 👏
So, I have questions…!
I love the wiggling and reduced damping (more character; similar to older hydraulic racks in previous cars). My suspicion is that the increased weighting / assistance fall-off is a touch too much for my liking. Have you been able to determine whether any of the other maps keep this closer to the original? Some posts on your thread suggest the GT3 Cup map doesn’t load up quite so much?
(My Indy has PIWIS 3, 4. My car is a summer 2015 build.)
@@christianpratt The GT3 and GT3 cup steering ended up being the same exact map. Which I think is kind of cool (motorsports approved haha).
Interestingly enough the GT3RS and GT4 maps are both distinct files. My car was an earlier build so I don't have those as possible options when I hook it up to my PIWIS. But people have reported that those maps are slightly lighter while keeping the hydraulic steering characteristics. The logic being that the GT4 map accounts for the midengine weight distribution and that the GT3RS map gives extra assistance to help with the extra wide/sticky tires.
It's possible your car will have these as options to toggle through since your car is a later build than mine. I know it was available in my local buddy's 981 GTS. We never played around with it too much because he was immediately happy with the GT3 map. But definitely something worth looking into.
@@SpicyHatchback Excellent - thanks for the further details. 👍 Your analysis of the GT4 and RS maps makes sense - I had started to work that out for myself, as it dawned on me that wider stickier front tyres would merit more assistance, for example.
I'll have to investigate further as to whether those options appear on PIWIS 3 for my car. Another viewer has commented that the GT3RS map does indeed retain a little extra assistance (ie. a touch lighter at the wheel - those stickier tyres!) than the GT3 map, so that might well be the answer...
More to come I think!
@@christianpratt Have fun! Hopefully you can make time to post your findings on the forums as well. It's always nice to see more nuanced and detailed opinions.
I understand you have knowledge how to unlock the GT3 option in the Porsche 981 gts??
Your in the states. I'm in Houston, Tx
Brilliant video as always. I enjoyed your insights on steering feel. I had a BMW M2 and a G80 M3, and the steering feel on my stock 981 GTS is a million times better, in fact it isn’t comparable. I’ve not had much experience with roadsters and lightweight sports cars like the lotus Exige or Alpine A110, so the Boxsters’ steering was an absolute revelation. I’m now quite curious to try out the hydraulic steering on a 987 Boxster!
Thanks Prashanth - appreciated.
The 987's rack is lovely; direct and linear with a well-judged weight and sense of connection to the tyres and road. Worth a try!
I've been wanting to do the GT3 steering setting on my 991.1. Haven't been able to find a PIWIS! Looking forward to trying it, when I get a chance. When it comes time to refresh the suspension, I'll add the GT3 lower control arms to further the experience.
Both of those tweaks in combination should add some extra character!
Thanks for commenting. 👍
I have a question if anyone knows: does PTV turn off when you turn traction control off? I enjoy the occasional donut or throwing the rear out on 180 turns, mostly in the wet to save tires and other components, and if the PTV interferes with that it has no place on the car
Not something I can comment on I'm afraid. Interested to know though!
Nice to see Thompson Twins !
Yes, PIWIS enables some great customization - retaining the auto stop start mode is another great one if it annoys !
Decent tunes!
I’m not too troubled by the auto S/S. Have you done the ‘correct’ water temperature thing? I can’t work out what that actually does!
@@christianpratt Not yet - It's on my list - I have only started coding in the last few weeks but the rain sensor is definitely working (2015 981) as they turned on in a shower today. I have the GT3 steering setting active but will revert back soon as a test.
@@mheeler Useful to know - thank you.
(I couldn’t find the rain sensor sub menu in PIWIS three; I think it’s slightly different to PIWIS 2.)
the GT3 RS steering module is massively better, than the GT3 version, I can code this for you in Zurich, plus all the other options, PTV, rear spoiler height & speed, rain sensor and daylight instrument console
Aaah - that's what I wanted to hear Richard - thank you. All of the feel and reduced damping without quite so much of the extra weight as the wheel loads up - I hope!
I shall cross my fingers and hope that the RS map is listed for my MY2015 car when I next get to plug it into PIWIS 3.
PTV has been done, and I've already had another viewer point to the PIWIS 3 instructions for the rain sensor. Do you know what the water temperature coding does by chance? Seems it enables a different (?) temperature sensor/feed?
Would love a trip to Zurich but suspect it might not be immediately practical!
Hi,
Can you tell me of any company in the UK that can also do this? Thanks
@@andrewjones5900 Hi Andrew. Broadly, this is something that an independent Porsche specialist should be able to do. They will need to have access to the Porsche's workshop PIWIS software/hardware (a laptop and cables, plus the dedicated software), AND - crucially - be willing to undertake the work for you. On which basis it's not as simple as listing independent garages, since there's no easy way to tell whether those two conditions will be met.
All that said, I had help from PIE Performance in Suffolk (as an example), and there are many excellent independent specialists up and down the UK that will likely be happy to help. If you need specific recommendations that a local to you, best to ask/check on a forum (Pistonheads, say), or with the Porsche Club Great Britain, for example.
I don't believe an OPC (Official Porsche Centre) will likely be interested in this; too 'out of scope' for their liking (and terms of business with Porsche GB!).
EDITED: if you type 'porsche independent specialists uk' into google you'll get a decent list of companies by way of a start!
Thanks for the guidance!
Hi again Richard. So - it's not quite the RS map, but my Boxster has some fresh steering feel for 2025! Hope you enjoy the video... 😀
Would you say there isn’t any disadvantage to adding the PTV apart from track tyre wear?
I won’t bother changing steering.
I think that's right Jason - there's no practical downside to PTV for daily driving, spirited or otherwise. (For track use, it's user-beware, I think.)
Put it another way, I'm not aware of any forum threads or discussions where owners are choosing to >disable< PTV because it's worsening their ownership experience. 😀
The way I look at the GT3 RS steering module, is my GT3 RS front tyres are about 50% wider than those on my Boxster GTS, this is why it works so well on a Boxster, making the steering like a go cart
Sounds very encouraging. Have you by chance tried the GT4 map? Any notable difference?
FWIW, I'm interested in a level of assistance that's at or around the standard 981 map, and a level of (reduced lateral) damping (i.e. a degree of wiggle) that's closer to the GT3 map.
@@christianpratt yes I tried the GT4 steering too, wasnt impressed, the GT3 steering module is much too light for me
@@DMR777-p5o Great - thanks Richard.
Excellent and well informed video on the 981 steering. Can I ask how much did it cost to change the 2 options? Thanks michael
That’s kind - thanks Michael. My Indy charged me for an hour of workshop time which, by the time we’d faffed around with it all, was about right. There’s no direct cost from Porsche. If you can find a friendly enthusiast who has a PIWIS clone then the actual time involved is barely five minutes.
Hey, just to let you know I don’t have the settings for the rain sensing wipers in the menu or sub menu’s, however my wipers are definitely set to rain sensing when setting on intermittent and only come on when it senses the rain as I’ve had on other cars with rain sensing wiper option. Have you tested your wipers since trying the update to see if it actually worked?
Aaaah - thanks Mark. That's interesting. I know the menu exists since another owner has shared some images of it with me. BUT - I'm now wondering whether that menu, as well as the sensors, needs enabling too.
Mine are very definitely not working since we didn't even attempt to code them - the PIWIS 2/3 instructions were too different.
@@christianpratt hmm interesting, mine have definitely been coded at some point by a previous owner as they weren’t optioned from new. Hope you figure it out as it’s a great option to have and can’t believe they weren’t a standard feature, that’s Porsche option list for you! 😄
@@Rico1973 Always the option list!
If I manage to work it all out then it'll be in a video at some point... 👍
Hi Mark. FYI, new video now up - rain sensor AND the menu item coded!
Cool, hopefully the comment will help you with algorithms... Porsche all the way in MANUAL 🙏 love mine,manual
Always manual! 😃
Thanks for the comment. 🙏
I tried the GT3 EPS programming on my 981 and really didn’t care for how it felt on-center and slightly off-center. It just felt artificial and not suited for the car, IMO. I quickly went back to stock but am curious about trying the GT4 and other options that are available in PIWIS.
Interesting - thanks for sharing. I’m hearing that the GTS RS map is worth a try by comparison, since it moderates the GT3’S more dramatic changes somewhat. Albeit not every 981 has this available - it seems to appear on late 2014 cars onwards.
Hi again. I've been playing with the Boxster's steering maps some more - you might be interested in the new video... 😀
I felt the PCV was more for the twisties ie 30kph recommended coroner but taken at 70+
I think that's right - Porsche talk about the PTV being more active at slower speeds and greater steering angle...
It is more than $1,000 to buy the full PIWIS 2 kit, inclusive of a dedicated laptop and then you need to have both the laptop and the car on a charger at all times, fortunately, I have an underground garage, I only did it because there were no independents in Switzerland
Aaah. More a matter of need than choice then.
Great video and great additional flavor in the comments! Im considering the steering change but like you, not sure i want the weight. Coming from the heavy hydraulic of a 986 boxster i very much enjoyed the 981 steering but did feel it could use just a tad more weight. With my back against the wall and a gun to my head id take the 981 steering but hmm.. if there could be something in the middle like the GT3 RS or GT4, i would love to try that. I just hope its available for my 2014 base model. Im going to a shop with the piwis tomorrow to code my PCM for a backup camera and im gonna ask to check whats abailable for my car. I will report back
Hi Cris. Thanks for the comments - glad you found the video useful. If you do find the GT3 RS map available for your car, consider trying that first. I think it might be the better option if you're aiming to retain some of the 981's assistance, but want a touch more colour.
Look forward to the report!
@@christianpratt I just got the GT3 RS setting and for me it's the perfect middle ground, exactly what I wanted! there is additional weight but it's not cumbersome. at parkinglot speeds its great and it loads up nicely in the corners. because of the extra weight/force required the car feels a bit more planted because an involuntary flick of the wrist doesnt move it around so easily. I only drove it for a bit and it was in the rain so i couldnt catch other specific nuances but there is a bit more feel coming through the wheel for sure. I would recommend this to anyone who can get it. my 2014 base model was showing all the options with the PIWIS, the GT4 and others but the GT3 RS option feels so right that i dont want to try anything else. I'm glad i came across this video Chris!! what was going to be just a PCM code to allow for a backup camera turned into one of the best mods that perfectly complements everything else i've done to the car. Especially after the numeric short shifter which gave some heft to the controls but made the steering feel out of place. I'm a happy camper!!
@@crisstwok3329 Fantastic Cris! What a great result - and absolutely the feedback I was hoping for too. I will definitely be revising the GT3 map on my car for the RS map instead. It sounds ideal.
Glad you've got your car tweaked and improved the way you like it; enjoy!
@christianpratt thank you sir! And hope you get yours to where you like it too
@@crisstwok3329 👍
the rear spoiler height and speed is fun, what is the point of having the rear spoiler go up above 120kmph, its like an advertisement to the police that you have been speeding. Mine is set lower (as have Spyder ducktail spoiler) comes up at 80 kmph, goes down at 40
I may yet tweak that too!
@@christianpratt I have a thread on that too! haha
@@SpicyHatchback 😀👍
Additional I have 981 S and have added 2 mods that you may find interesting. I have added FVD sports headers and FVD tune unlocking 360hp.
Aaah - excellent intel Michael. Thank you. That is precisely what I plan to do on the GTS - effectively the same engine and output, after the FVD map has corrected the throttled throttle! I’ll need the 200 cell cats for road use but I understand that they don’t really compromise the power gains.
How does the car drive? (By my reckoning, 360 brake brings the power to weight ratio to within a few horses of my old 997.2 C2S - which is perfect for me.)
First of all, please note that 981 S has been throttled back to 315 hp while a cayman GTS with the same engine has been throttled back to 340hp. Basically a 981 boxster S owner has a lot more to gain. All 981 3.4 engines are the same but power output is set by the ECU for the designated model. After the upgrade the first thing that I considered was upgrading the brakes. The power jump from 315 to 360 made me laugh out load and is a must for any 981 owner.
Also remember the base 991 has the same 3.4 L engine and that is also throttled back to 350hp. Of course Porsche was not going to build a new engine for each model, for marketing reasons they have set the ECU for each model. So again a 3.4 L engine has the potential unlocking a lot of power if you have a lower model in the range.
@@michaelcain2867 It's the same engine/block I had in my previous 997.2 - which means Porsche got a LOT of value from that particular design!
@@michaelcain2867 Good point - which I was sort of aware of, knowing that the block is common.
The Boxster GTS is quote as 330 PS (metric) stock, so realistically I can expect roughly a further 10% in power, and a smoother torque curve.
Funnily enough I'd also read that a brake upgrade might then be necessary. I'm going to put braided hoses on my stock callipers to start with, but might make the jump to the 991's six-pot callipers and 350mm rotors for the front axle, budget permitting. They'll look better behind the 20 rims, at the very least!
I found this video interesting as have a 981 GT4 and a 991.2 GT3. In an interview when the GT4 was launched, Andreas Preuninger said the steering hardware for the GT4 was out of the GT3, which is no surprise as most of the front axle is .1 GT3. However, he also said the software had been tuned for the GT4. Given the differences between the cars, including, weight placement and RWS is it really that easy to activate GT3 steering on a GTS, when it was “customised” for the GT4?
Thanks for commenting Richard.
The short answer is yes: it’s very easy to actually swap the steering map. (Literally a mouse click, once you’re in the PIWIS sub menu.)
As to whether it’s appropriate, and whether the intrinsic differences between the rear and mid-engined cars (and all of their suspension, rubber and drivetrain differences) make that map ‘better’, it’s impossible to say.
Suffice it to say, it’s only guess work in the forums. Porsche hasn’t ever declared the revisions, so far as I can tell.
But it’s easy enough to do and does change the feel of the rack.
I am a pure mechanical novice and an old person ! I own a base model 981 2014 first registered not by me, could you advise me if this modification would work with my base model and would there be any advantages with my car, I am too old to consider upgrading my car but I just enjoy driving mine even if I do not necessarily need to make a drive out.
Hi there. Thanks for watching the video, and for your question.
From what you've described, I wouldn't rush to make this change (the steering or the PTV) to your car. The PVT is a marginal change at best; the GT3 steering map is more noticeable, but whether it's better is very much a matter of choice.
You'd also have to find a friendly specialist who can do the changes for you.
From everything I've read around the subject, your car should certainly have the PTV and EPS options available. Though if you already enjoy your car and how it goes down the road, I wouldn't rush to make these changes for their own sake.
(Equally, if you have the time, inclination and a friendly garage, then it's a fun thing to try out. But not essential!)
Thanks for the prompt and helpful reply, I enjoyed your video watching you drive with the modifications, the split screen was good as watching the driver input together with the road you are on really conveyed the feeling of the drive, thanks. I will keep what bit of money I have and spend it on petrol especially as there is constant pressure for seniors like myself to give up driving 😅
@@y9art Useful to hear that the split-screen works - thank you!
I'd definitely endorse the fuel-money strategy. That's what they're all about, at the end of the day.
Enjoy your driving!
Would you try and do this upgrade yourself?
On balance, no. For me, it's easier to work with my local indy garage since they have the laptop & PIWIS hardware and know how to correctly use it more broadly. Plus I don't anticipate making these changes regularly enough to warrant buying my own clone.