Clutch replacement & IMS

The time has come when i need a new clutch as part of the job i am going to change the IMS. What one should i go for ? What have people fitted ? thanks

I spoke to a indie and all they fit is a L&N engineering bearing.But that's what they said to me. I also spoke to HP Motorsport in Essex and these guys were very help full. But read up on different types but there will be some one here with an answer.

Hi - your vehicle will have the earlier dual race bearing. This is much more robust than the single race bearing introduced on the facelift model (I'm sure this is discussed elsewhere). If you still want to replace this then you have 3 options: LN bearing (ceramic) - most popular choice. (Medium cost, about £500 + fitting) Roller bearing - relatively recent - we have no direct experience of this but believe it has drawbacks to match its benefits (Thrust properties, apparently) Direct oil feed - no experience of this either. Highest cost. Still relatively recent. And finally ... with the dual race type it is not possible to obtain a low cost OEM bearing (whereas it is for the single race - these typically cost £30 or so). This is a big statement which I would caveat... Please get in touch if you would like me to add detail to the above. Kind Regards

Don't forget the IMS saver option as well - a lot quicker and cheaper - having said that I guess you're going to do much of the relevant labour with the clutch replacement. LN ceramic bearing looks a good bet IMO - plenty of info on you tube, on thta and other options, if you search 996 IMS. Do let us know what you decide. Best.

The original bearing was designed to be lifetime, so if there is no indication of seeping oil or other evidence of metal particles in the oil/filter then leave alone. The other option would be to fit IMS guardian as mentioned. There is not enough data out there to indicate whether after-market bearings are lifetime, but LN seems to be best option. The direct oil feed seems to tap off a sealed plug on the block and requires pipework plumbed in - although not clear from what I read it may need the bell-housing to be modified for the feed. There was also some debate about oil starvation and pressures, a "Rob Peter to pay Paul" scenario. There was a recent article in 911 & Porsche World on this mod.

Thanks guys i will have a read in to the LN bearing and IMS guardian. I didn't realise that the earlier cars had a different bearing to the facelift model. I will let you know the outcome once the work gets started.

Kerry, Here's a useful summary of some of the IMS bearing options: http://www.thepopularmech...PorscheIMSOptions.html Have a look at the technical article link too. Jeff

thanks jeff

Hi Kerry, I have to agree with Wibble in that if its not showing signs of wear I'd leave it alone. Obviously I know your car well and from memory it seemed fine when last checked. If you're curious then you could fit a guardian monitor, but personally I think I would consider fitting a magnetic sump plug, which should tell you anything you would need to know during regular routine servicing / oil changes. Cheers John

I've been reading up on the on bearing and seems there's a new solution not the Ims retro fit but it's called the Ims solution. Also now there seems to be a intermediate shaft problem? Has any one else herd of this.

I think you're referring to the direct oil feed system modification - single row bearing IMS only I think you'll find. There's videos on YouTube. Best.

Be very careful swapping anything out if it does not need it. Research all you can - the LN option is not the best way to go (despite what they will try and tell you) and there have been instances of the ceramic bearing failing. Too much smoke on mirrors on this subject IMHO - if I was in your position I would have a chat with Hartech (no affiliation) who will give you a real world perspective on the options.

Chris, Your advice is sound. The problem I find with Hartech though is on one hand Barry goes on about not needing business and how busy he is. Then on the other hand spreading doom and gloom stories about how every engine is a ticking time bomb oh and by the way here's a link to our price lists and servicing. He basically concludes that there are no viable fixes apart from a rebuild by them at around £10k. If if you do speak to him be prepared to lock your top floor windows in advance so you don't jump!

Will make sure I lock my self in a room with no windows lol. I am going to wait until they take the clutch out and go from there

I concur - it's about filtering out the options from the sales pitch!