How do I check my model Boxster does not need IMS.

[PB987]

Hi to all

 

Spoke to Cath today in Wigan, North West Porsche ...

discussing my 987 2005 Boxster.

 

My concern is the IMS I am hoping that mine will not need to be repaired and that it is the model that is safe and will not fail.

there is no noise as some people say there is, apparently the IMS just fails.

 

Is there a way of checking for instance the VIN number, or is it in the shop to be checked over.

 

Hope someone can give some direction.

 

Mike ...

Edited February 10, 2016 by PB987

[JFP in PA]

2005 was a transitional year for the M96/97 engine's IMS bearing.  Some of the cars carry the single row serviceable (read can be changed without disassembling the engine or even removing it from the car), while other carry the oversized non serviceable (read the engine must be disassembled to retrofit it) bearing.   The car's with the serviceable bearings carry the single row bearing, which has the highest failure rates percentage wise, cars with the non serviceable large bearing have a low failure rate, but are still known to fail.  In reality, any M96/97 engine with a factory IMS bearing has some probability of IMS failure, but some are more prone than others with the  2001-2005 single row's being the worst.

 

Unfortunately, the only proven method to know which bearing is in the engine it to pull the gear box, clutch, and flywheel, and look at the IMS bearing flange center bolt.  No other methods (VIN, build date, engine number, etc.) have proven even remotely reliable.  The oversized non serviceable bearing used a 22 MM center bolt and was the only one to use that size, so it is easily recognizable once it is uncovered.

[PB987]

Many Thanks for the prompt reply ... 

Mine is 55 plate auto/tiptronic 

 

looks like it needs to go in just to be certain ...

 

Thanks again ...

 

Mike ... UK ...

[JFP in PA]

Many Thanks for the prompt reply ... 

Mine is 55 plate auto/tiptronic 

 

looks like it needs to go in just to be certain ...

 

Thanks again ...

 

Mike ... UK ...

 

Just remember that if the car turns out to be the 22MM center bolt, you can still them remove the rear seal on the IMS bearing so that it is lubricated by the oil mist inside the engine.  While not a perfect solution, it does seem to improve the longevity of the oversized IMS bearings,