Yet another IMS bearing question

[Jeff_C]

New poster to the board with an IMS bearing question. I recently acquired a 2006 C2S with 80K miles, previous owner of a 78 SC. I have an extended warranty on the C2S; so much of this is really just understanding my options down the road. My specific question is can you remove the seal from the factory bearing without splitting the case? Has anyone done this?

Here’s what I think I know, any corrections would be appreciated:

1) My vehicle has the improved larger bearing that (anecdotally at least) has a lower failure rate than the bearing used previously

2) Removing the flange allows access and visual inspection, but the bearing can’t be pulled without splitting the case as the bearing outer diameter is larger than the opening

3) The general theory is that motor oil breaches the bearing seal thus washing out the “permanent” grease packed in the bearing. This appears to be confirmed by numerous reports of intact removed bearings draining oil.

4) However, the continuing presence of the seal (despite being breached) doesn’t allow free-flow of motor oil thus providing inadequate lubrication. Premature failure results.

5) The bearing has seals on both sides. The seal toward the flywheel allows the oil access as the IMS is closed on the other end and oil can’t get in. The IMS retrofit bearings leave this end open (no seal) to allow free motor oil access.

6) Although the bearing won’t fit through the opening, the full OD of the seal can be see with flange removed (see M97 photo from LN Engineering that hopefully appeared below)



So when in there for a clutch job, is it possible to pull out the bearing seal? From the photo it looks not only possible, but perhaps relatively easy. How difficult is it to dislodge the seal from the factory bearing? Some sort of thin, barbed tool could be used to puncture the seal and provide enough resistance to allow extraction. Presumably, this could be done gently without damaging the ball bearings. Has anyone done this or heard of it being done on an M97?

Thanks for any responses.

[JFP in PA]

Yes, it can easily be removed with a small automotive pick (looks like a dentist's tool).

[Jeff_C]

Thanks JFP, good to know.