Best Model Years To Buy?

[PaulE]

Originally Posted by BoxMann

But the '00 - '02 also had the single row IMSB. And since I want an S, the '97 - '99 are out.



OK, I'll keep that in mind on the '02 or earlier.

Sounds like you're saying that a 2004 550 SE would also be a good choice if I can find one. There are very few around. I saw one advertised on the PCA website recently, but it's no longer there, and I assume it was sold. I think they were asking $20k.

If you buy a 2000-2002 S I think it's impossible to know if the IMSB is single or dual row without pulling the transmission, clutch and flywheel unless someone else already has and documented what is in there or already upgraded it and provides the documentation for that. I think it really comes down to what model year car you find in your search that you really like. There will likely be 00-02 cars that have updated the plastic window top to a glass window top and ones from 00-04 that have had an upgraded aftermarket IMSB installed. Part of the fun is the hunt for your car, enjoy it!

[BoxMann]

Originally Posted by PaulE

If you buy a 2000-2002 S I think it's impossible to know if the IMSB is single or dual row without pulling the transmission, clutch and flywheel

I thought it's only the 2000's that could have been the earlier double row or the "newer" single row. Not the '01's or '02's. Is that not correct?

[78F350]

The two '01s that I've had apart both had dual row bearings. '02s I'm a little more doubtful.

[PaulE]

Originally Posted by 78F350

The two '01s that I've had apart both had dual row bearings. '02s I'm a little more doubtful.

That’s probably right, I know one of those years was a crap shoot.

[BoxMann]

Originally Posted by 78F350

The two '01s that I've had apart both had dual row bearings. '02s I'm a little more doubtful.

Did not know that. I thought 2000 was the transition year to the new bearing, and only a handful of the early 2000's used up the leftover inventory of double row bearings.

But what you're telling me is good news for me. That means I might find a '00 or '01 S with the double row bearing. (Of course, I might also find one with the LN replacement)

[Nedlands]

Originally Posted by BoxMann

Did not know that. I thought 2000 was the transition year to the new bearing, and only a handful of the early 2000's used up the leftover inventory of double row bearings.

But what you're telling me is good news for me. That means I might find a '00 or '01 S with the double row bearing. (Of course, I might also find one with the LN replacement)

I just replaced the IMS in my 2000 S and it was a double row... I also have a glass windowed hood from a 2003.
I would buy an early car if I was doing it again over the newer cars