[thstone]

Here is what I think that Porsche knows:

1. Failure mode(s) of the bearing
2. Conditions which accelerate bearing failure
3. Conditions which slow bearing failure
4. Statistical failure rates based on year and mileage curves

Porsche is an engineering powerhouse. I am quite sure that they have studied, modeled, and analyzed the IMSB problem quite well. The ultimate conclusion? In 2009, the intermediate shaft was designed out of the engine. No, IMS means no IMS bearing failures. QED.