Can a Home Mechanic With Patience & Know-How Replace an IMS Bearing?

[I Wanna 911]

I'm curious about replacing the IMS bearing in a 996 or 997, since I've begun researching these generations of 911s.

I've been reading a lot about this repair, including articles that say an experienced mechanic with patience, know-how and the right tools can do this job themselves. In fact I think someone said Pelican sells a kit for about $1000 that will provide the fix.

Would love to hear about this, especially if you've done one yourself.

Also, if one buys a 996 with, say, 50,000 miles on it, and the previous owner has not swapped out the IMS bearing, I assume a good shop can perform a an inspection or test to determine the status of the original bearing, correct?

Thanks Very Much,
Scott

[rattlsnak]

I've done a few, its not hard at all but you do need the right tools. Also, no way to tell if its been replaced unless you pull the trans out UNLESS they used the upgraded type with the pressure fed oil system.

[salayc]

Two versions of the IMS bearing on a 997. One is very similar to the 996, the other is much harder.

[I Wanna 911]

Thanks, Gents. Just curious on the process. I'm sure there are some YT vids on the topic as well.

Take Care,
Scott

[Driven97]

You do know our host does pretty great write-ups of stuff like this:

https://www.pelicanparts.com/techarticles/Porsche-996-997-Carrera/14-ENGINE-IMS_Bearing/14-ENGINE-IMS_Bearing.htm

[Uwon]

With 50k, I’d drop the trans. and just pull the outer seal. Done!
Did it on my 997S and I’m now at 110k miles.
Cheers,
Johan

[4flyboy]

Ant of Wheeler Dealers did an episode on this, almost step by step.

Appeared very doable with a lift. YouTube or check Discovery/Motortrend cable networks. After you watch the episode you'll know if you want to tackle it or not.

Best of luck,

Scott

[merlinfe]

I changed the IMS bearing out on my 2005 997 C2. No more difficult than changing out the flywheel. I did it in the garage on jack stands. I was sore when it was done, but it was done.

Things to keep in mind;
1. Pay for quality tools, some are better than others. You can sell them when you are done.
2. Buy the IMS bearing kit that will give you the most piece of mind. Changing a wear item ( all multi-part bearings are wear items) for another wear item is great if you plan on doing the job again. There are kits with less moving parts that are the most expensive kit, but you will never have to worry about it again.
3. While you are in there, the rear main seal will be accessible. The seal is cheap, getting it in without the right tool is tedious. It needs to be a certain depth and it has to be installed dry. Its much harder in practice than in theory. Had I to do it over again, I would have bought the right tool and resold it later.
4. There are a few lists from the class action law suit that say cars with this VIN will have this bearing installed. It's useful but can be tricky to use for the early 997 generation.

My personal thoughts are that the bearing is a wear item, period. Buy the absolute best one you can and drive the piss out of the car without worry (except for bore scoring and oil separator issues). I intentionally bought an early 997 C2 so that I could change the bearing out without having to possibly do a motor pull and case separation. Do your homework, don't cheap out on anything and you will be fine.

- Steve

[blucille]

I watched a youtube video, "home built by jeff" that made it look completely straightforward as long as you have the appropriate puller.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1E_0vqeU1A&list=PLnidW9Wb_DjzKqYJU3jO4X9q-R-SL3GiK&index=6

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLaHtWjFTVQ&list=PLnidW9Wb_DjzKqYJU3jO4X9q-R-SL3GiK&index=5

and

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jkdjWYnbCkY&list=PLnidW9Wb_DjzKqYJU3jO4X9q-R-SL3GiK&index=11

[eastbay]

I did my own way back using the LN kit. Lot of work for no discernible gain. I think at this point it is just better to avoid the whole problematic IMS containing model range.

[I Wanna 911]

Originally Posted by eastbay

I did my own way back using the LN kit. Lot of work for no discernible gain. I think at this point it is just better to avoid the whole problematic IMS containing model range.

Thanks. Except these generations are the only ones within my price range that allow me to buy my first 911.

Thanks Again,
Scott

[MBAtarga]

Certain models of 997 have to split the case to replace the IMS bearing. Can't be replaced without it - or the "special" tool/process that I've seen several less than stellar reviews on.

[I Wanna 911]

Originally Posted by MBAtarga

Certain models of 997 have to split the case to replace the IMS bearing. Can't be replaced without it - or the "special" tool/process that I've seen several less than stellar reviews on.

Thanks for this info. I'm starting to hear this from numerous people.

The good news, due to budget the car I choose will definitely be a 996, not a 997. If I can save $3-5K, I can live with funky headlights.

Thanks Again,
Scott