IMS Retrofit – Birstall

Engineers identified the fact the single-row bearing, used from 2000 to 2005, had only half as much load capacity as the dual-row version used on earlier models and was a major contributory factor to the number of IMS bearing failures in 986 Boxsters, 996 911s and a few of the very early 987 Boxsters.

A quick look at the statistics shows that the single-row IMS bearing factory-fitted on those Porsches has an estimated failure rate of 8%, compared with just 1% for the earlier dual-row version. (Figures are taken from the official IMS Retrofit website).

The dual-row ceramic hybrid ball-bearing solution developed for the Single Row Pro IMS Retrofit has a vastly improved load capacity over the standard IMS bearing, eradicating this potential cause of a costly bearing failure.

An IMS bearing failure has the potential to be one of the most expensive problems Porsche owners can encounter, as it can lead to catastrophic engine failure or a range of components being damaged by debris in the engine oil.

Sometimes, there are some clear warning signs that the bearing is failing, which will give you the opportunity to have it replaced with a superior retrofit product before serious damage is done.

If you spot any metallic debris in the filter while carrying out an oil change and there is an oil leak at the rear of the engine, there is a possibility the IMS seal and bearing is failing and that your Porsche may need an upgrade.

As soon as you spot the problem, call Revolution Porsche Specialists on 0113 468 6020 for some advice. Do not drive the car until it has been inspected by a trained Porsche technician, as you could cause significant damage to the engine.

We can arrange recovery to our workshop in Birstall, if necessary, and one of our Porsche specialist technicians will inspect your car and let you know whether the bearing needs to be replaced.

If you own a 2000-2005 Boxster or 911 and are worried about the possibility of an IMS bearing failure and a substantial repair bill, give us a call about having a Single Row Pro IMS Retrofit upgrade as a preventative measure.

Our fully trained Porsche technicians have a long track record of successfully completing IMS bearing replacements using the original LN Engineering ceramic bearing kits.

We now also have the necessary specialist tool required to fit the second generation Single Row Pro IMS Retrofit, so can provide the best possible solution to IMS bearing issues on any relevant Porsche model.

As well as expertise, we offer excellent value for money.

The prices for a Single Row Pro IMS Retrofit, complete with an oil and filter change using Mobil 5w40 (or 0w40 if you prefer) and replacement of the RMS, are available here.

The Single Row Pro IMS Retrofit is available for engines manufactured between 2000 and 2005, but any Porsche Boxster, Cayman or 911 (other than the Turbo, GT2, or GT3 models) from 1997-2008 is susceptible to IMS failure.

We still offer the original IMS retrofit upgrade for all 986 and 996s, while cars from model year 2006 onwards are likely to require more extensive work to replace the IMS bearing. Call us for full details of these services.