Interesting IMS Fact

NewPorsche91132 · 02-19-2013, 03:28 PM

So, in my continued research to look at 996s, I'm calling a few places about potential PPIs. One of the places I contacted was Ottos here in Venice, CA. When talking about the IMS issue, he said that it was very real and that he was currently sitting with three blown engines in his shop. He also said that he's been using the LN bearing and has seen it be fairly reliable in the ones he's done, but that in the rebuilds he does he uses the new Porsche Factory part which he thinks is superior but only worth it if you're splitting the case.

Additionally, I talked to a service manager at a Porsche dealership and when I brought up IMS, off the record he says it's a very real concern and he tells anyone he talks to to get the LN refit.

I think this is all sort of known information, but just thought it is interesting to share.

BYprodriver · BYprodriver's Garage

FYI "Otto" died 2 weeks ago. Don't know if or how that will affect service there.

bell · bell's Garage

We use nothing but the Ln kit, quality stuff and of the 20 or so i've done there is very consistent quality with the parts.
We are very pleaded with them.

FPB111 · 02-22-2013, 06:46 AM

Data point: 53k mile 2003 C2 Cab, oil changed every 3-5k, IMS removed due to leaking enough to drip on floor after run. Polish bearing, perfect condition. No grease evident, filled with Motul XS 5-40. Tube had oil in it also, smelled relatively fresh not putrid like some.

Used my new P 254 Engine Support Bar for the 996 yesterday

It makes pulling the trans alot easier. Beats using a floor mounted screw jack under the engine.
You can tilt the engine/trans to get clearance to pull the brackets out and replace them, move the lift up and down for bolt and slave cyl access etc. Also enables engine tilt to match trans during installation.
Shop owner liked it so much he bought it from me to use in the shop.

Oh yeah we were pulling the IMS because it was drooling so much. 53k on 2003 C2, Polish bearing, looked and felt perfect no play, no grease just Motul 8100 5-40.

91C2wrencher · 91C2wrencher's Garage

Not to throw gasoline on the fire here but.... I too talked with my trusted independent shop, they did all the work on my 964 and it was badazz. He pretty much said point blank to avoid the m96/m97 engines. He's getting one a month

for upgrade/rebuild/engine swap out. You don't have to hit me over the head twice. Currently looking at RS4's to get my euro fix....fixed

BYprodriver · BYprodriver's Garage

Quote:

Originally Posted by 91C2wrencher

Not to throw gasoline on the fire here but.... I too talked with my trusted independent shop, they did all the work on my 964 and it was badazz. He pretty much said point blank to avoid the m96/m97 engines. He's getting one a month

for upgrade/rebuild/engine swap out. You don't have to hit me over the head twice. Currently looking at RS4's to get my euro fix....fixed

Beware of Porsche expert mechanics that have been working on Porsches for many years before the Boxster came out & have little to no experience & training on M96/97 engines. I believe he is exaggerating the number of issues he is seeing.

I wonder why the RS4's have lost value so fast?