Engine Area - 2000 Boxster
 

I took my 2000 Boxster (2.7L MT, 91,000 miles) to a shop on Thursday. I had heard a noise from the engine area or perhaps the passenger side rear axle. The car definitely seemed louder than normal, but that is a somewhat subjective evaluation. (I had replaced the water pump last fall, and it did not sound like the water pump failing.)

The shop owner seems to think it is either dual mass flywheel or the IMS beginning to fail. He will be taking it apart to find out.

I did see that there was a TSB on the DM flywheel,

Based on the searches I've done, if it is the IMS it sounds like most folks are favoring the LN ceramic bearing. I think it is likely that I have a dual row IMS (production date of the car was September 11, 1999), but he can verify that when he takes the car apart.

While he's working, I'll have him replace the clutch and the AOS since I've been getting a little smoke lately.

Any suggestions or comments are appreciated.

Fill me in - I always thought the IMS really didn't give much audible warning? By the time you hear it it's too late?

Update us regarding the condition of your original IMS bearing if you can.

Giller - I've read a few posts reporting noise from the bearing before it failed. Here's an example:
http://986forum.com/forums/general-discussions/46893-ims.html

However, I'm beginning to think it may be something else making the noise. It appears that the only way to tell for sure is inspection.

SoCalBlackbox - I'll post more information when I know for sure.

The problem turned out to be flywheel related. While they have the transmission out, I will have them replace the AOS, Rear main seal (it's leaking), a cracked oil filler tube and the clutch. There are also a few other transmission-related items that need repair.

Great time to replace the coolant tank, much easier with the tranny out.