IMS Bearing Replacement
At RPM Specialist Cars, we specialise in Porsche IMS bearing replacements and upgrades, with extensive experience working on Boxster, Cayman and 911 models affected by this known weak point. Whether you’re looking for a preventative upgrade or have already experienced signs of failure, our team deliver precision engineered solutions using trusted parts and correct tooling.
We offer professional installation of industry-leading IMS upgrades, including the LN Engineering Ceramic IMS Retrofit and the EPS Cylindrical Bearing Solution. These upgraded bearings are designed to improve durability and reduce the risk of engine failure.
For later 997 and 987 models (2006 – 2008), Porsche used a larger IMS bearing that cannot be retrofitted with a standard bearing. Our solution involves a precision-machined adapter bush that allows fitment of the Sing Row Pro IMS Retrofit. This setup enables future servicing of the bearing without requiring engine disassembly, making it both a reliable and cost effective upgrade.
Additional info regarding Porsche 997 IMS bearings
Base engine (3.6) has designation “M96”, can have the smaller IMS or the revised larger bearing, you will need to know your engine number in order to determine which one you have:
Engine (3.6) number up to M96/05 69507475 has the smaller IMS bearing
Engine number from M96/05 69507476 has the larger revised IMS bearing
“S” Engine (3.8) has designation “M97”, can have the smaller IMS or revised larger IMS bearing:
Engine (3.8) number up to M97/01 68509790 has the smaller IMS bearing
Engine number from M97/01 68509791 has the larger revised IMS bearing
Porsche models at risk of an IMS bearing failure
All water cooled 911’s Boxster’s and Cayman’s from 1997 through to 2008 are at risk of suffering an IMS bearing failure, with the exception of the Turbo, GT2 and GT3 models which maintained use of the air-cooled style shaft.
Through production of these models Porsche have changed the bearing type several times, initially using a dual row bearing from 1999 – 2000 before moving onto a single row bearing between 2001 – 2005 (reports indicate this single row bearing as being the most liable to failure). The later 997 and 987 Boxster and Caymans used a larger single row bearing with greater load capabilities that proved to be a lot more reliable.
Read our full article IMS Bearing Issues Explained
LN Engineering IMS Bearing
LN engineering provide a range of IMS bearing upgrade options which are dependant on your specific Porsche model variant.
Please follow the link below for further information on this option.
EPS IMS Bearing Solution
EPS offer a different solution to the standard ball bearing options. They supply a cylindrical bearing that has been customised at a nonstandard measurement of 15mm
Please follow the link below for further information on this option.
For further information on IMS bearings or to arrange an appointment to have yours replaced please contact our service department on 01423 865602.