Porsche 928 Parts Catalog: Complete Guide to Finding OEM and Aftermarket Components

The Porsche 928 is a landmark grand tourer that blends luxury with performance. Produced from 1978 to 1995, this front-engine V8 coupe has a dedicated following among enthusiasts who appreciate its unique design and driving dynamics. However, keeping a 928 on the road requires navigating a specialized parts ecosystem. An accurate and comprehensive Porsche 928 parts catalog is essential whether you are restoring a garage queen or performing routine maintenance on a daily driver.

This guide covers the key sources for parts, the differences between OEM and aftermarket options, and how to use a parts catalog effectively. The goal is to help you make informed purchasing decisions without wasting time or money on incompatible components.

Understanding the Porsche 928 Parts Landscape

OEM vs. Aftermarket: What You Need to Know

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts are made by Porsche or its original suppliers. These match factory specifications and are often the safest choice for critical systems like brakes, suspension, and engine internals. OEM parts command a premium but offer guaranteed fit and longevity. For a 928, OEM is especially important for weather seals, electrical connectors, and fuel system components where aftermarket alternatives can be hit-or-miss.

Aftermarket parts vary widely in quality. Reputable brands like Pelican Parts, 928 Motorsport, and Roger Crawford’s 928 Specialists offer parts that meet or exceed OEM standards for many items. Other budget options exist for wear items like belts, hoses, and filters, where brand differentiation is minimal. However, avoid cheap aftermarket parts for critical or complex assemblies—they often cause more problems than they solve.

The Challenge of a 40-Year-Old Platform

Porsche discontinued the 928 nearly three decades ago, so OEM supply is finite. Porsche Classic still produces some parts, but availability is limited. Many components are now only available through NOS (New Old Stock) dealers, specialist dismantlers, or small aftermarket manufacturers. This means a parts catalog isn’t just a list—it’s a lifeline to a community of suppliers.

Key Part Categories in a 928 Parts Catalog

Engine and Drivetrain

The 928 used multiple engine displacements: 4.5L (early), 4.7L (S), 5.0L (GT), and 5.4L (GTS). Timing belts are a notorious maintenance item—they must be replaced every 30,000 miles or 3 years. A proper catalog includes timing belt kits with tensioners, water pumps, and seals. Other critical engine parts include:

• Cylinder head gaskets (prone to failure on early engines)
• Oil cooler seals and hoses
• Fuel injectors (Bosch variants)
• Ignition components (distributor caps, rotors, coils)

Transmission parts—both manual (Getrag) and automatic—are also essential. Catalogs often list clutch kits for manuals and torque converters for automatics. Ensure you verify the exact transmission code (e.g., G28/10) when ordering.

Suspension and Steering

The 928’s transaxle layout creates unique suspension geometry. Front suspension parts like lower control arms, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common replacement items. Rear suspension includes a complex Weissach axle with rubber bushings that degrade over time. Polyurethane bushings are a popular aftermarket upgrade. Catalogs should differentiate between standard and sport suspension components.

Shock absorbers and struts are another key category. Bilstein and Koni produce specific 928 models. Coilover conversion kits are available from specialty suppliers but require careful selection based on ride height goals.

Brakes

The 928 uses large disc brakes that need regular attention. Catalogs list:

• Rotors (solid front, vented rear on some models)
• Caliper rebuild kits (seals, pistons)
• Brake pads (soft compound for daily, aggressive for track)
• Brake lines (rubber or stainless steel braided)

Beware of cross-model part confusion: some 928 brakes share dimensions with later 911s, but offset and mounting differ.

Electrical and Electronics

Electrical issues plague many 928s due to aging wiring and connectors. A good catalog includes:

• Engine control modules (ECU) from Bosch Motronic
• Alternators and starters (rebuilt options available)
• Sensors (oxygen, crankshaft position, coolant temp)
• Relays and fuse boxes
• Instrument cluster components

Many electrical parts are NLA (No Longer Available), so buying used or refurbished from specialists is common. Verify compatibility by production year and VIN.

Interior and Body

Restoring a 928’s interior is expensive. Catalogs cover:

• Leather seat covers and foam padding
• Dashboards (prone to cracking)
• Door panels and armrests
• Carpets and mats
• Headliners

Body parts include bumpers, headlights, tail lights, and side moldings. Early and late cars have different front bumpers and lighting. Reproduction panel skins are available for rust repair.

How to Use a Porsche 928 Parts Catalog Effectively

Decoding Part Numbers

All Porsche parts have a ten-digit number format (e.g., 928 123 456 00). The first three digits identify the car model (928). The next group indicates the system (e.g., 123 for engine, 124 for fuel, 125 for exhaust). The last three digits are the specific part. Cross-reference numbers are common when parts are superseded. Always check the latest part number using an online PET (Porsche Electronic Parts Catalog) which is updated by Porsche.

Finding the Right Source

• Porsche Classic: OEM parts still in production. Use the Porsche Classic website or a dealer.
• Specialist Retailers: 928 International, 928 Motorsport, and Autoatlanta have searchable catalogs with real-time inventory.
• Salvage Yards: Southwest 928, PartsHeaven. Good for used parts, but inspect carefully.
• Forums: Rennlist, Pelican Parts, and 928.org have classifieds and buyer advice.

Common Pitfalls

• Assuming interchangeability across model years (e.g., 1979 front hubs differ from 1989).
• Ordering aftermarket parts without confirming manufacturer reputation.
• Ignoring production date splits—many parts changed mid-year.

Final Recommendation

Start your search with a reliable online parts catalog such as the one from Pelican Parts or 928 Motorsport. These sites offer VIN-level filtering and customer reviews. For OEM-specific items, use Porsche’s PET database to confirm part numbers, then source from a dealer or trusted specialist. If you are on a budget, prioritize safety and durability—invest in OEM braking and suspension parts, while aftermarket can suffice for cosmetic items. Always cross-reference with a dedicated 928 community before making a large purchase. A proper Porsche 928 parts catalog is not just a shopping tool—it is the key to keeping this iconic V8 grand tourer on the road for years to come.