Market Position:
The Porsche 928 S was positioned as a luxury Grand Tourer (GT) and a flagship model, distinguishing itself with its front-engine, rear-drive V8 layout in a brand known for rear-engine sports cars. It competed with other high-end GTs of its era.
Competitors:
Primary competitors included models like the Jaguar XJ-S, Aston Martin Vantage, Ferrari 400/412, and Maserati Quattroporte, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and comfort.
Key Features:
The 928 S is characterized by its V8 engine, transaxle layout for better weight distribution, advanced (for its time) suspension systems, and distinctive aerodynamic styling. This manual delves into the intricacies of these unique engineering elements.
Vehicles Covered:
Porsche 928 S (1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986)
Page Count:
Not Specified (assumed comprehensive for workshop manual)
Manual Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Format:
PDF (Electronic Delivery via Email)
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul and repair, including disassembly and assembly of major components. Specific mention of engine performance tuning.
Fuel System:
Detailed information on fuel delivery, injection systems, fuel pumps, injectors, and related components. Includes troubleshooting and repair.
Ignition System:
Comprehensive coverage of ignition timing, spark plugs, coils, distributors, and electronic ignition control. Includes diagnostic procedures.
Lubrication System:
Information on oil pump, oil filter, lubrication passages, and oil pressure management. Includes fluid specifications.
Exhaust System:
Repair and maintenance procedures for exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters (if applicable for model years), mufflers, and piping.
Electrical System:
Extensive coverage including wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, fuse box, relays, and electronic control units.
Body:
Procedures for body panel repairs, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, and exterior components.
Transmission:
Detailed procedures for transmission removal, installation, overhaul, and repair, covering both automatic and manual (if applicable) transmissions.
Routine Maintenance:
Covers all aspects of routine servicing, including oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and inspections.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving various mechanical and electrical issues. Includes troubleshooting trees and symptom-based analysis.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for repairing and replacing virtually all components of the Porsche 928 S.
Overhaul:
Comprehensive overhaul procedures for major assemblies like the engine and transmission, allowing for complete rebuilds.
Tune Ups:
Specific instructions for performing tune-ups, including ignition timing, fuel mixture adjustments, and component checks.
Removal Installation:
Detailed procedures for the removal and installation of all major components and sub-assemblies.
Assembly Disassembly:
Instructions for the systematic disassembly and reassembly of various vehicle systems and parts.
Technical Depth:
High. Assumes familiarity with general automotive practices and focuses on the specific, often complex, aspects of the Porsche 928 S.
Proprietary Components:
Includes instructions for proprietary components and refers to manufacturer-specific guidelines where applicable, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
Displacement:
4.5L (early models), 4.7L (later S models)
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 219 hp (US spec 4.5L), 234 hp (Euro spec 4.5L), 306 hp (4.7L S)
Torque:
Varies by displacement and market. Examples: 238 lb-ft (US 4.5L), 284 lb-ft (4.7L S)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection (CIS - Continuous Injection System)
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition System (Bosch)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (standard on most US models), 5-speed Manual (available on some markets)
Transmission Type Optional:
5-speed Manual (RWD with transaxle)
Drive Layout:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) with transaxle (engine front, transmission rear)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific Porsche ATF specifications (e.g., Dexron III equivalent or specified Porsche fluid).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil specifications (e.g., GL-4 or GL-5, viscosity grade).
Length:
Approx. 4,785 mm (188.4 in) for later models
Width:
Approx. 1,785 mm (70.3 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,320 mm (52.0 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,500–1,700 kg (3,300–3,750 lbs), varying by options and market
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,500 mm (98.4 in)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x130 mm
Tire Sizes:
Commonly 225/50 VR16 or 245/45 VR16 depending on model year and options
Safety Ratings:
Modern safety ratings are not directly applicable to this era of vehicle. However, the 928 was engineered with significant safety considerations for its time.
Brakes:
Four-wheel disc brakes, often ventilated front discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) became available on later models.
Passive Safety:
Reinforced passenger cell, energy-absorbing steering column, seatbelts. The manual will detail specific component safety features and inspection points.
Infotainment Features:
For the era, infotainment was basic, typically including a premium sound system with cassette player. This manual covers the electrical systems powering these components.
Driver Assistance:
Limited driver assistance systems for the time. ABS was an option on later models. The focus of the manual is mechanical and electrical systems.
Other Technology:
Features like automatic climate control, power accessories, and cruise control were available. The manual details their operation and repair.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles or 12 months, but refer to manual for precise intervals based on driving conditions.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical maintenance item. Usually every 30,000-60,000 miles or specified time interval. Refer to manual for exact intervals and procedures for timing belt replacement on the V8 engine.
Engine Oil Specification:
Refer to manual for specific Porsche A40 or equivalent API SN/SM, ACEA C3 specifications, viscosity typically 5W-40 or 10W-40 depending on climate and model year.
Coolant Specification:
Porsche-approved coolant (e.g., G12 or equivalent), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1, as specified by Porsche. Frequent replacement recommended for optimal performance.
Common Issues:
Potential issues can include fuel distributor leaks, aging rubber components (hoses, seals), electrical gremlins, transmission control issues, and coolant leaks. The manual addresses these and more.
Importance Of Torque Wrench:
Emphasized in the manual. Correct torque values are critical for engine, transmission, suspension, and wheel installations to ensure safety and prevent component damage.
Brand Heritage:
Porsche has a long-standing reputation for building high-performance sports cars with exceptional engineering and build quality.
Model Evolution 928:
The 928 was introduced as a replacement for the 911, representing a significant departure in design and engineering philosophy. The 'S' variant introduced in 1977 (Europe) and 1980 (US) featured an enlarged engine and increased power output, becoming a more potent performance machine.
Production Years:
1978-1995 (928 series), with the 'S' designation and the years covered by this manual (1980-1986) representing a key evolutionary phase.
Production Location:
Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen, Germany