Charles Navarro
New member
We get emails almost daily with owners of 2005 model year Boxster and 911 models. With a 2005, depending on build date, it is possible that you do indeed have a serviceable single row IMS bearing. I wouldn't let that stop from changing the IMS bearing out. Just depending what you find may change the route you take.
There is a small chance that you have the non-serviceable bearing, which isn't a big deal. The incidence of failure with a 2006-2008 M96 or M97 Engine as found in the Boxster, Cayman, and 911 that have the larger (but non-serviceable) IMS is highly unlikely. We would estimate about a 1% failure rate.
If you have the non-serviceable bearing, the IMS can be changed with complete engine disassembly. Although there is a company that sells a tool and kit to bore the block, allowing you to change the bearing, you should never under any circ*mstances do this. The debris generated by this invasive procedure will compromise the engine.
When you have your clutch replaced, it's best to have the grease seal removed off the original bearing to allow engine oil to better lubricate it. At that time, you can reseal the IMS flange and have the rear main seal replaced as well. There is a black plastic seal on the front of the bearing - you would use a dental pick or something similar to pop the seal out of it's groove. Just be sure not to loose it in the engine when you do remove it. We don't have a how-to for this, but I found a short video on YouTube that shows seal removal on a ball bearing:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCXMICrjKd4
The larger bearing found in MY06-08 engines has the same load capacity as the early dual row, which have proven to be the most reliable of the factory bearings. I wouldn't worry too much about it after you pull the grease seal. There is no need for a direct oil feed for the factory ims bearing as the bearing will be submerged in engine oil once you have the grease seal removed.
I would additionally recommend changing your oil every 6 months or 5,000 miles and use a quality 5w40 (Millers, Driven). You may consider a magnetic drain plug to further help in identifying early signs of debris being generated by the IMS bearing. I would also advise dropping the oil pan for inspection from time to time as well. We have more technical information on our website on this topic.
