Getting my IMSB Replaced Tomorrow

[Dave S.]

Originally Posted by cardiffgiant

I might consider changing the dual mass fly wheel while they're doing the clutch. I was told
that they usually wear at the same pace.

The shop guy told me he expects my clutch to be in very good condition with only 25k miles on it and suggested they measure it and decide if it should be replaced. He'll call me with details, but I'll probably replace it anyway so everything is fresh for the next 50k miles.

[Dave S.]

While I was at the shop dropping off the Boxster today, I got to see a whole box full of damaged IMS bearings and shafts. What a mess.

[1olddude]

Does anyone have data that would support how sound the LN bearing is? When/if they fail does it toast the engine too? Until I knew the answers to those questions I still would drive everyday wondering. I sleep ok anyway cause I decided long ago I would take my chances until I need a clutch, which at 13,650 miles on the odometer at this time, it could be a while. I don't worry. Glad you have a shop you can trust and hope you enjoy the 'new' car.

[southernstar]

LN does not release data, although in an earlier thread there was mention that as at around October 2012 they claimed that they have had only a 'handful' of failures (as I recall 6) and all in relation to the single-row replacement bearings - none of their replacement dual-row bearings had suffered a failure. And yes, the result of failure is identical to a failure with the original bearing.

There was another recent thread where a member had his upgraded single-row LN bearing, installed by an 'approved' installer, fail after about 5000 miles. LN blamed the installer and paid for only a replacement IMS and bearing (perhaps understandably, they will not pay for collateral damage). UPDATE: It is actually a thread on perdrosboard and, in addition, it discusses various IMS upgrades:

http://pedrosboard.com/read.php?7,26540,26540#msg-26540

As I understand it, if the bearing is not seated properly i.e., perfectly flush, it will lead to movement/wobbles in the shaft and failure should occur very quickly - typically in a few hundred miles. If installed properly, then who knows how long it will survive? In theory, at least, the unsealed ceramic bearing should be more durable in a high-heat environment than a sealed metal bearing. Since Porsche does not sell replacement bearings, however, one has no choice but to go to an aftermarket supplier and LN seems to be the best choice. Certainly, for those with double-row bearings, I would rule out the Pelican Parts upgrade as it converts the double-row to a single row-sealed metal bearing with a spacer! Regardless, those who think that installing one these bearings is a full-proof answer, had best think again.

Brad

[recycledsixtie]

Well I think that is a very fair price of $2400 to get that work done. I was quoted $4400 in my fair city by the indy shop so I have declined their fair offer and will take my chances.

The nature of the Boxster the way I see it is that now you have had that fixed other noises will come up in this magic box and rear their ugly little heads.Other scenarios present themselves which you can choose to fix or ignore. One alternative car is a Toyota Camry or Corolla which is virtually 100% reliable and definitely 100% boring.
Driving to my golf course yesterday I pretty much knew that my car (2001 Box base)
would be the best looking car in the parking lot. The black beauty never fails to draw attention. Drive on .....

[southernstar]

Seems a very fair price indeed. Although I am waiting for when I need to replace the clutch, I inquired last year and was quoted approximately $3000.00 and $3200.00 for clutch plus LN IMS bearing at a couple of indy shops in the Toronto area.

Brad