I really have two questions as I am looking for some clarification...

1) Exploring a purchase of a 2005 997 cab and was wondering if there is any concern around the much discussed Rear main with the early 997 as a carry over from the 996's? I have heard a bit of a watch out and not to worry after 05. If not any other concerns i should be aware of?

2) See a lot of books documenting 993's, 996's but what book/books would you recommend for the 997's?

Really a great board where the uninformed are welcome to ask questions to get informed.... just came over from an audi forum where newcomers to the audi club were unwelcome. Its great be able to be part of a car culture thats helpful and accepting.....thanks for your help!!!

 

Porsch has modified/"improved" the rms and the ims on the fly so to speak. Earlier (05) cars reportedly experience more problems than later. Rms is not such a big deal. Ims failure is a big deal and you may want an extended warranty. The actual # of failures are low but the shaft bearing/bolt was apparently improved at some point for the 06 and later motors. Buy the newest 997.1 you can afford would be my advise and consider a GOOD warranty. As for books, the 997 is still fairly new and I don't know which if any have that much updated information. Check Amazon I guess. Good luck

 

If possible, go with an '06 or later...best of luck.

 

I have heard of that Ims. What does that stand for? Certainly could do the research to further explain but maybe you could help with the translation.

Thanks guys for the guidance and help

 

Welcome rbarrack, and I hope you are successful in your search.

A word of caution: as you said, this is a great place to get some really good info; as you learn more you will find that this, like so many forums or blogs, is also a great place to get total crap and misinformation.

 

Intermediate shaft runs off the crank and drives the valves. It's bearing and locknut have been known to fail causing disasterous engine failure as valves meet pistons. The diameter of the shaft and the bearing/nut were redesigned in late 05 and either all or some of 06's (depending on who you believe) have the update. As I said the #'s are low but this is usually the reason cited for going w 06 or later motor and keeping your warranty up to date (always a good idea). 997.2 has no Ims but I would not want to be the first guy on the block to find out how well it will fare.

 

My '05 suffered an RMS seal failure (actually 'failure' is too strong, it was only weeping a couple of drops). This was early-on (after about 1000 miles, I think). It was replaced with the 2006 version of the seal nad there have been no further issues for 25000 miles now. Seems Porsche has finally got this one nailed.