TopKatz

Is EPS the only IMS solution for M97 that does not require a tear down? Is there any information on why the approach they use to gain access to service/replace the bearing is not done by others? It seams like a viable option when comparing to the alternatives of doing nothing, removing the seal or tearing down the motor.

cwheeler

You need to head over to LN Engineering. The only solution I would buy, is the IMS solution by flat 6 innovation - Jake raby.

Cw

TopKatz

Tearing my motor apart is not a solution I’m interested in.

Im asking why others don’t bore out the housing to gain access?

Sporty

Please read all the information out here. Basically it is not necessary to change in terms of statistics and cost benefit. The incidence of failure is extremely rare on the larger more robust bearing, and I believe Jake Raby has stated this relative to non tracked cars.

TopKatz

Yes, I have read quite a bit including the poll that clearly has cars in my category listed in it with IMS failures. I understand that my car has less probability of a failure. Much like other owners I want some peace of mind that my car won’t detonate.

Yes, I have read a a bunch from Jake. I would love to replace my IMS with one of his. As it stands right now that is not a realistic option. My question is why not? Why doesn’t he or LN recommend not boring out the block to gain access?

The concept to access the bearing seams reasonable to me. Maybe others who know more can explain why it’s not?

Sporty

"Why doesn’t he or LN recommend not boring out the block to gain access?" From what i understand because of the risk of having the fine metal from the boring getting into the engine. Also, note that poll is unscientific and misleading.

TopKatz

Yeah, I considered the debris, however the old bearing is still in place and sealed at that point. You don’t bore out the bearing, only the flange to gaining access to remove it. I certainly recognize this is not the most elegant solution. But again it appears to be the only one aside from prayer or a tear down.

Flat6 Innovations

The last engine I saw with a bored IMS access port lasted 900 miles after the procedure was done.

We've seen a few of these, and due to it we had to make a special oversize IMS Solution flange adaptor to address engines that have had this done.

Debris should be avoided at all cost, the lightweight aluminum debris that suspends easily in the oil, and is then delivered to all internally lubricated components within the engine. "Fixing" one problem can create dozens more.

We've seen three M97 IMSB failures since 2006.. That's right.. Just 3. The best course of action is to service the engine frequently, remove the grease seal when you do the clutch, and just drive the damn car. We leave these alone from a preventative perspective.

Charles Navarro

The problem is the debris that gets introduced to the engine will end up causing damage throughout the engine. Not to mention, the finish it leaves behind won't seal up without copious amounts of sealant. Here's one block we had to fix for a customer after he had this invasive procedure carried out by Vertex and the engine failed shortly thereafter.

TopKatz

Thanks for taking the time to share valuable information.

Carreralicious

Thanks for sharing that information! It’s good to know there’s been very few IMSB failures seen post 06+.

996AE

99% of 997 cars dont have an IMSB failure yet you are concerned.

Maybe a Toyota is a better ride for you.

Just sayin.

Bb114

THAT is great information, from a great source.

TopKatz

I'm fact finding as I'm about to drop the transmission and have the area exposed. If there is a preventative measure that should be taken at that point I will do it. I'm gathering information.

The motor rebuild for my car is the cost of a brand new toyota.... just saying.

thanks for such helpful information.....

996AE

Prevention and research on a non issue for 99% of 997 owners of 2006-2008 cars, as stated by the foremost expert on 996/997 engines in the USA and could be argued the World said as much.

Move on to bore scoring and oil suggestions to prevent scoring. Now this is a rich subject worth researching.

Good luck on Trans removal.

Out.