I pulled the IMS from my 996 (1999 C4) and thought I'd let everyone have a look. The dual row bearing spins smoothly and has zero play. The shaft it rides on looks good, too. The cover has a rough edge inside, but that surface does not contact anything. Strangely, the cover has no markings. Most that I've seen photos for had "Germany" or a part number on them. The rubber o-ring is flattened and definitely shot, which I'm sure contributed to the leak I found. I've got the LNE kit to replace the bearing.
So, jury of my peers, what are your thoughts on this...
Did I just spend $$ to replace a good part?
Did I just save my engine?
Does the personal learning experience alone justify the similar-to-3-credit-hours cost?
LNE wants the old bearing in order for the warranty...I really wanna pop the seal and have a look inside. What would Jesus do?
