Nose/Header Panel — Removal and Installation

Introduction

The nose panel (also called the header panel) is the body panel between the headlights that carries the Porsche crest. Removal is necessary to replace the hood crest (see BODY-13), to access the intercooler on 944 Turbos, and to replace the air filter on the 944 S2.

On early model 944s and early 924s the nose panel is spot-welded in place. The spot welds must be drilled out to remove the panel. When reinstalling, the panel can be reattached using fasteners similar to the late-model arrangement.

Tools

• Phillips head screwdriver
• 1/4″ drive 10 mm socket
• 1/4″ drive 8 mm socket
• 1/4″ drive short extension (2 inches)
• 1/4″ drive ratchet
• 1/4″ drive universal adapter

Removal

1. Turn the ignition to ON.

2. Turn the headlight switch to ON to raise the headlights — they will remain in the raised position throughout the procedure.

3. Remove the headlamp motor fuse:

   • Early 944s (pre-1985.5): Fuse 1, Additional Fuse Panel
   • Late 944s (1985.5 and newer): Fuse 2, Central Electric Panel

4. Turn the ignition OFF.

5. If desired, the headlights can be raised manually by using the knurled knob on top of the headlamp motor after removing the fuse above.

6. Early 944s and early 924s: Remove the header panel by drilling through all spot welds that hold it to the body.

7. Late-model 944s: a. Remove the four Phillips head screws along the back edge of the panel.

   b. Loosen (do not remove) the two retaining nuts (8 mm) in the bottom of each headlight bucket (four nuts total).

   c. Locate the machine screw under the front lip of the nose panel in each headlight bucket area.

   d. Remove the machine screw using a 10 mm socket, universal adapter, 2-inch extension, and ratchet. The 1/4″ drive 10 mm socket is small enough to clear the panel lip.

   e. Lift up on the back edge of the panel and slide it toward the front of the car to remove.

Installation

1. Early 944 or early 924: Reattach the panel using fasteners in the same style as the late-model arrangement shown in the removal pictures above.
2. Slide the nose panel into place in the headlight buckets. Ensure the washers on the nose panel studs rest on top of the bottom of the headlight bucket.
3. Install the machine screw under the front lip of the nose panel.
4. Install the four Phillips head screws along the back edge of the panel.
5. Tighten the 8 mm retaining nuts in the bottom of each headlight bucket.