I just bought a 2002 Carrera 4 Cabriolet and have spent way too many hours learning about the IMS issues. My C4 has 43,300 miles and has been well maintained. But, for peace of mind, I think I want to replace the factory IMS bearing. Problem is, I'm not sure which way to go. A local Porsche shop wants to retrofit with a LN Engineering IMS "Pro" for $3100 (inc clutch), while the local Porsche dealer says they can replace the IMS for $1600 (but not with an LN product). I've also heard about a double-row hybrid bearing that replaces the original single-row bearing. And, about an IMS "Solution." Would someone please tell me what is the best way for me to proceed without breaking the bank. Thanks in advance. --Dave

 

The question with the IMS is not if it will fail it is when it will fail. If it fails it is catastrophic and most places will not even give you credit for the core. So it is a good idea to replace it as soon as you can. It pays to replace the clutch while you have the tranny out since labor costs a lot more than the clutch. From my research the LN bearing seems to be the best. They also make the tool to remove it. However not all IMS bearings can be removed from the outside of the engine. My latest reading is that even the LN is not guaranteed for life and it too can eventually fail. They consider IMS a "maintenance" issue. Good Luck

 

If you're gonna spend that kinda money, spend a bit more and don't mess around with band-aids and get The Solution.

The Solution removes the ball bearing design all together and is a permanent fix, unlike the other options which still need to be changed out on a maintenance interval. Important thing is to find a good shop that is willing to perform a thorough prequalification on your motor first. If it doesn't pass this stage, you could just be wasting your money.

Now me on the other hand do not feed into the internet hysteria and have 125k on original engine/IMS using M1 oil. It really depends on how risk adverse one is and how they interpret the numbers. Everyone is going to be different,

 

+1 same here as alpine003. I bought my car with 106,000 and now have 125,000. Didn't have any history. Did the AOS, water pump, headlight switch and a few other items as they were needed. I have not done the IMS. Maybe when the clutch goes, but for now, I'm enjoying my ride. Cheers

 

They only fail about 10% of the time although the single row bearing in your car is the most susceptible of the designs I agree its a bit of hysteria but there is SOME risk. That price is beyond redonkulous though. If you are doing a clutch it doesnt take much more to do the IMS, its right there. I think if you want to drive the car as worry free as possible, that is something you an do to make the car more bulletproof and give you the peace of mind to drive it as you see fit. Do a little haggling and see if you can get the price down.

 

I purchased a 2003 996 C2 Coupe two years ago.
It was always maintained by Porsche dealership, no signs of ims/rms issues.
56k now, I just ordered a clutch/flywheel package and going to have ims/rms LN update, along with all rear engine seals replaced by Cantech in Syracuse, NY over winter. Quote was $2240 with me supplying clutch/flywheel.
They offer solution for $3150.
Is this about right for pricing?
They do a lot of them, all parts in stock at thier facility.
Also going to have gear box fluid changed, + $300.
Also adding RSS motor mounts and TS transmission mount. Motor mounts are extra charge to install, I am supplying mounts.

 

With 101k on my 2001 C4, had my IMS LN bearing upgrade, RMS, clutch (kept OG flywheel), A/C recharge, power steering fluid, and oil change for $2250. That was about 3 years ago. Still running strong with 133k on the clock.

 

That is much more reasonable. Having spent some time underneath a 996, I think you might be surprised at just how easy and accessible this stuff is, well assuming you have it on a lift. ; )