Kenporsche997

I just joined Rennlist specifically to get your guys advice. I have a 2006 997.1S with 67,000+ miles. I drive it often and store in the winter. I'm very concerned with this topic.
Mechanics have told me:
1. You don't have an IMS issue because they did the alignment and it was good.
2. I should replace it when I replace the clutch.
3. Mine is unserviceable so it can't be fixed.
HELP
This is my 9th Porsche and I really would like to keep it.
I checked FAQ and didn't see this specific topic. I know I probably missed it.
Greatly appreciate constructive advice. I would really like to keep this car.
Thanks.

yvesvidal

2006 models are for the most part protected from this problem. Especially with this kind of mileage.
Keep changing the oil every 5,000 miles, respect oil temperature before revving and you will be fine.

Yves

Kenporsche997

Thanks. This is what I was hoping.

street rod

1. is wrong
2. is wrong
3. is correct but it does not need to be fixed because it already has the improved bearing with 1% or less failure rate.

PaulD_944S2

When the clutch is replaced have a competent mechanic pull the outer seal off the IMS bearing.
See below for more information. Hope that clarifies the issue for you.

https://lnengineering.com/products/the-definitive-guide-and-faq-for-porsche-ims-bearings.html

DO PORSCHE 997 MODELS HAVE IMS PROBLEMS?

Although the forums might tell you that 987 and 997 models do not have IMS bearing problems, some 2005 model year vehicles were fitted with the problematic single row bearing. The larger, non-serviceable bearing used in the 2006 through 2008 model year Porsche Boxster, Cayman, and 911 models is the strongest of the factory Porsche intermediate shaft bearings, but they still can fail. As the bearing cannot be changed without complete engine disassembly, many experts agree that removing the grease seal off the IMS bearing will extend the service life of original bearing and is a must anytime you have the gearbox out to do a clutch job or replace the rear main seal.

Khloesdad

"When the clutch is replaced have a competent mechanic pull the outer seal off the IMS bearing."

I still dont get this idea. If the bearing is sealed on both sides, what good is removing the outer seal? Oil cannot pass through the inner seal so I dont see how oil can make its way around the other side of the bearing. Am I missing something?

TopKatz

The IMS is inside a recess in the case that is sealed with a cover. In the pictures you can see the cover and the three bolts. You remove this cover to access the IMS. On the 06ish-08 cars th bearing can not be removed but you can remove the outer seal on the bearing it self. This allows a trained tech to inspect the bearing to a degree and will let oil into It. Once done with inspection the outer cover is put back in place. Now that the bearings seal is removed the cases oil can get into it keeping it lubricated.

I did this very thing while my motor and trans was out.

4Driver4

Yup. One side removed is enough to get oil in and out.

Khloesdad

Ok so then there must be some allowance room for oil to get around the back side of the bearing.

Petza914

The bearing seal doesn't make a perfect deal as the bearing ages. That allows a little oil in past it which is enough to thin and dissolve the internal bearing grease and let it flow out. Now you have a little oil inside a sealed bearing, but it doesn't cycle enough to where the oil doesn't beak down and stop lubricating. Pulling the seal allows enough flow to keep the oil in the bearing fresh.

2006 is non-replaceable. Just pull the seal whenever you pull the transmission and replace the RMS.

4Driver4

There is.
I think some folks tend to confuse the bearing seal that is added to the bearing during manufacture with the o-ringish seal between the IMSB cover and the case. They are different. Remove cover, extract the seal from the bearing, replace cover seal/ring, and reinstall cover.

Khloesdad

Good deal guys. I learned something today.

Kenporsche997

Great comments. Thanks guys

snosk8luke

3rdpedal

Not all 06 models have the larger bearing. You should be able to check the engine number under the car without taking anything off. I don't have the details but less than XX is servicable and over XX is not. That will tell you if you have to worry.