What is IMS in a Porsche?
The Porsche IMS (stands for intermediate shaft) is a geared shaft that runs through the front and rear of the engine. It indirectly drives the camshafts on either side of the engine by way of the mechanical rotation of the engine’s crankshaft. The actual shaft itself was not the problem.
Are there any IMS bearing issues in the Porsche 997?
Most late 2005 and early 2006 997 models are included and, as mentioned earlier, a very small percentage of those cars were affected. But if there is doubt in your mind, most experts completely rule out any IMS bearing failure on 2007 and newer 997 models, as some engine components were updated and no incidents have been reported so far.
What should I do if my Porsche IMS fails?
Some Porsche experts recommend that if IMS failure is a big worry as an owner, then there are aftermarket bearings that could be installed early in the car’s life that may offer protection from a highly unlikely but catastrophic event. These bearings plus installation could cost up to $2,000 and are surely a price fix to a non-existent problem.
Is it safe to replace IMS bearing on 2005 Carrera 3.6?
My 2005 Carrera 3.6 had a new engine at 30,000 miles from Porsche. Replacement engine has done 34,000 miles. Finger permanently crossed. Your replacement engine will almost certainly have the bigger non serviceable IMS bearing so you are reasonably safe from failure. Remove the outer seal?
When did Porsche start using IMS in cars?
This IMS design was used by Porsche in all M96 and M97 engine cars: flat 6 boxer engines found in Boxsters, Caymans and 911s built between 1997 and 2008. The intermediate shaft’s job is to drive, although not directly, the camshaft from the crankshaft.
Most late 2005 and early 2006 997 models are included and, as mentioned earlier, a very small percentage of those cars were affected. But if there is doubt in your mind, most experts completely rule out any IMS bearing failure on 2007 and newer 997 models, as some engine components were updated and no incidents have been reported so far.
My 2005 Carrera 3.6 had a new engine at 30,000 miles from Porsche. Replacement engine has done 34,000 miles. Finger permanently crossed. Your replacement engine will almost certainly have the bigger non serviceable IMS bearing so you are reasonably safe from failure. Remove the outer seal?
Some Porsche experts recommend that if IMS failure is a big worry as an owner, then there are aftermarket bearings that could be installed early in the car’s life that may offer protection from a highly unlikely but catastrophic event. These bearings plus installation could cost up to $2,000 and are surely a price fix to a non-existent problem.
Where is the IMS flange located on a Porsche?
The ims flange is accessible with the transmission removed. With the crankshaft at TDC and cams locked, it is possible to remove the flange and gain access to the bearing, at which time the grease seal can be removed. This exposes the bearing to the engine oil located in the sump and provides improved lubrication and cooling for the bearing