Oil leak IMS vs damaged seal HELP!

[thom4782]

My best guesses....

Looking at picture 2 from a few weeks ago, it's likely that both the RMS and IMS bearing were leaking. IMHO, the dealer should have replaced both the RMS and the IMS bearing at the same time.

Q1: It's doubtful that the IMS leak is caused by not replacing the bolts.

Q2: I'm not sure. There are two ways for an IMS to leak - the flange seals leak or there is leakage around the center stud

Q3: According to my local dealer, a leaking IMS bearing can be an early sign of an IMS failure.

Q4: I would recommend the following. First, I would tell the dealer they misdiagnosed the problem the first time and should have replaced both the RMS and the IMS bearing. Given the oil and dirt on the IMS flange, there is no way to conclude that the IMS wasn't leaking then. As a compromise, I would offer to pay for new parts only. Second, I would replace the entire IMS bearing. I've never heard of replacing just an IMS seal. More importantly, if the internal IMS bearing seal is leaking, the bearing is losing lubrication and being damaged already. It's time to get the old bearing out of the car. Replacing a seal only is short sighted. Third, if the dealer won't install the IMS Solution, I would ask then to install the IMS Retrofit. Fourth, if the dealer won't do my first three suggestions, I would take the car (tow it) to another Porsche dealer or an independent repair shop and get the work done there. Bottom line - if the IMS is leaking, get it replaced ASAP without starting the engine again.

Hope this helps...

PS: Brad is right about many Porsche dealers. In the San Francisco area, however, one dealer at least installs the IMS Retrofit as a fix to IMS problems. So it's worth asking.

[Laredo]

Where can I obtain the IMS solution o retrofit. In their web page the say only certified installer have it. And they don't have any close by.

[thom4782]

SSF Imported Auto Parts in South San Franciso California will sell an IMS Solution or the IMS Retrofit to automobile repairs shops. It does not sell directly to the public.

Pelican Parts will sell the LN IMS Retrofit kit directly to individuals. Keep in mind Pelican sells two kits. On is the LN IMS REtrofit kit and the other is a Pelican Parts kit. They are very different.

When installing the IMS Solution or the IMS Retrofit in your car, the installer should follow the installation instructions exactly.

[woodsman]

I think they should have replaced both items-period. Regardless of whether or not they 'fess up' is another thing. Bottom line, I'd get an LN bearing installed by a shop THAT'S DONE THE JOB BEFORE- even if I had to pay for it myself. Some would suggest getting the trans input shaft seal replaced while the trans is out.

[Laredo]

I went to my Porsche dealers and at the end they did the job for $500.00 USD and I Supplied the parts around $1000.00 USD. I hope this is the end of this matter.

[woodsman]

so you've got an OEM IMSB installed?

[Laredo]

LN Engineering.