'03 S - Two Mechanics say Yes & One says No - IMS

[Kirk]

There can be warning signs... or your engine can just pop.

I don't give people a "doom and gloom" story on the IMS bearing, but if you have an appointment scheduled in 2 weeks, then just get it done. If the optimistic mechanic is wrong and your engine pops without warning is he going to buy you a new one?

Kirk

[recycledsixtie]

Originally Posted by Kirk

There can be warning signs... or your engine can just pop.

I don't give people a "doom and gloom" story on the IMS bearing, but if you have an appointment scheduled in 2 weeks, then just get it done. If the optimistic mechanic is wrong and your engine pops without warning is he going to buy you a new one?

Kirk

Kirk makes a lot of sense. I would add that if you are concerned it will give you peace of mind to have it done.

Secondly I would say if you are well heeled financially and can afford to take a hit financially then don't bother. If you cannot afford the grenading get it done.....

[Last930]

I have the same quandry - 95K miles, due for new clutch soon. Mechanic pulled sump pan out and inspected for debris along with oil filter - they were both spotless. Suggests keeping IMSB as is, in the theory that if it has worked this long it should continue to work. Feels that regular oil changes along with inspection filter will detect pending failure in time to avoid disaster.

[recycledsixtie]

Originally Posted by Last930

I have the same quandry - 95K miles, due for new clutch soon. Mechanic pulled sump pan out and inspected for debris along with oil filter - they were both spotless. Suggests keeping IMSB as is, in the theory that if it has worked this long it should continue to work. Feels that regular oil changes along with inspection filter will detect pending failure in time to avoid disaster.

If it was mine then I would replace imsb at the same time as having the clutch done
....while I am in there basis.

My base 2001 Box has no clutch issues, has 40k miles so will wait till it needs a clutch. I have however the IMS Guardian installed.

[RaisedOnPorsches]

I my situation I bought my Boxster 5 years ago with 25k miles. Being the fourth owner, I knew it had been sitting for sometime and probably hadn't been driven that hard.

I bought my Boxster as a primary car and I didn't have a lot remaining in savings to cover purchasing a new vehicle or factory motor if the current one grenaded on me. Here's what I did:

1) Accepted the fact that I *should* replace my IMSB sooner than later (for peace of mind, reliability of use, and insurance against a more expensive replacement purchase).
2) Started saving up what I could towards that $3000 estimate (IMSB, clutch, & RMS).
3) As soon as I could safely afford it, I had the bearing replaced.

In the time it took me to go through all three steps I probably doubled the mileage on my Boxster through enjoying it and commuting with it. Don't be afraid to use it as is, but be intentional about whether or not you're going to take the plunge and replace the IMSB.

$3000 later, I have no regrets (other than there was probably lots of life left in my prior clutch).

If your boxster is just a weekend hobby car and you can afford to buy another one at the drop of a hat, then I'd hold off on the IMSB until you get accustomed with and attached to this specific car.