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If somebody says he will pull engine and transmission to replace the IMS this guy in general doesn't know the Boxster watercooled engine. In my opion these are the guys who have worked on air cooled Porsche and VW engines.
There is also the possibility to check the timing of each camshaft with a Durametric, or PIWIS tool. So if there are any problems with the chain tensioners, chain length, or even with a IMS ball bearing that wlll break soon, you can diagnose that. But that doesn't work with any 986 engine, because the engine needs 2 camshaft sensors. 1999 engines should have 2 camshaft sensors.
About 8% of the engines fail by IMS problems. But that also means that 92% of the engines will run without any problems. So i personally would first inspect the stock ball bearing and than decide what to do. If the sealing is OK i think there is no need to replace it.
If your car needs a new clutch, it's a good idea to check IMS seal and ball bearing and rear crankshaft bearing. If not i would drive the car, do oil changes and check oil and filter and wouldn't worry too much.
Regards
Markus
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