IMS Replacement Bearing
Before ordering, it is necessary to identify which bearing size you need. There are two types of bearings (Single row and Double row) used in these engines. This kit comes with DOUBLE row bearing.
Fits:
Porsche 986 Boxster 1997 -2004
Porsche 996 Carrera 1997 -2004
Kit Includes:
Patented DOF Flange with anti-rust zinc plating
IMS Bearing
3 micro-encapsulated Porsche bolts
Spacer for bearing
Engine oil port adapter with crush ring
Cam Plug
3,000psi hydraulic hose
Fitting for hose
Thread locker
Installation instructions
The direct oil feed (DOF) solution uses a patent pending custom made Intermediate Shaft Flange that utilizes a direct oil feed to the original Intermediate Shaft Bearing. It uses an adapted pressure fed oil line from a positive oil pressure feed on the cylinder head directly to an opening in the custom Intermediate Shaft Flange. This feeds fresh oil directly to the open end of the IMS bearing (after removing the seal to expose the ball bearings on the IMS bearing). By using a positive oil feed from the engine's cylinder head valve cover, there will always be a consistent flow of oil directed to the open end of the intermediate shaft bearing.
This is a cost effective way to help protect against a possible IMS bearing failure, using the original bearing. The system, however can also be used when replacing the bearing with a new SKF steel ball bearing for added insurance with a new, zero mile bearing.
For Installation Instructions CLICK HERE
Related reference numbers
Related, superseded, cross reference or alternative numbers for comparison.
IMSDOF9962
The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
- Porsche Boxster 986 2.5L 1997-99
- Porsche Boxster 986 2.7L 1999-02
- Porsche Boxster S 986 3.2L 1999-02
- Porsche Boxster 986 2.7L 2003-04
- Porsche Boxster S 986 3.2L 2003-04
- Porsche 996 C2 3.4L 1997-08/01
- Porsche 996 C4 3.4L 1997-08/01
- Porsche 996 C2 3.6L 09/01-2005
- Porsche 996 C4 3.6L 09/01-2005
- Porsche 996 C4S 3.6L 09/01-2005
Before ordering, it is necessary to identify which bearing size you need. There are two types of bearings (Single row and Double row) used in these engines. This kit comes with SINGLE row bearing.
Fits:
Porsche 986 Boxster 1997 -2004
Porsche 996 Carrera 1997 -2004
Kit Includes:
Patented DOF Flange with anti-rust zinc plating
IMS Bearing
3 micro-encapsulated Porsche bolts
Spacer for bearing
Engine oil port adapter with crush ring
Cam Plug
3,000psi hydraulic hose
Fitting for hose
Thread locker
Installation instructions
The direct oil feed (DOF) solution uses a patent pending custom made Intermediate Shaft Flange that utilizes a direct oil feed to the original Intermediate Shaft Bearing. It uses an adapted pressure fed oil line from a positive oil pressure feed on the cylinder head directly to an opening in the custom Intermediate Shaft Flange. This feeds fresh oil directly to the open end of the IMS bearing (after removing the seal to expose the ball bearings on the IMS bearing). By using a positive oil feed from the engine's cylinder head valve cover, there will always be a consistent flow of oil directed to the open end of the intermediate shaft bearing.
This is a cost effective way to help protect against a possible IMS bearing failure, using the original bearing. The system, however can also be used when replacing the bearing with a new SKF steel ball bearing for added insurance with a new, zero mile bearing.
For Installation Instructions CLICK HERE
Related reference numbers
Related, superseded, cross reference or alternative numbers for comparison.
IMSDOF9961
The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
- Porsche Boxster 986 2.5L 1997-99
- Porsche Boxster 986 2.7L 1999-02
- Porsche Boxster S 986 3.2L 1999-02
- Porsche Boxster 986 2.7L 2003-04
- Porsche Boxster S 986 3.2L 2003-04
- Porsche 996 C2 3.4L 1997-08/01
- Porsche 996 C4 3.4L 1997-08/01
- Porsche 996 C2 3.6L 09/01-2005
- Porsche 996 C4 3.6L 09/01-2005
- Porsche 996 C4S 3.6L 09/01-2005
IMS Bearing Upgrade Kit with Full Ancillaries – Essential Reliability Upgrade for 986 Boxster 2.5ltr with Manual Gearbox
This IMS bearing upgrade kit includes everything
needed to replace and enhance the intermediate shaft bearing in the Porsche 986 Boxster 2.5ltr with M96 engines. This complete
package includes the upgraded bearing assembly, new hardware, seals, exhaust
clamps, sleeves and all required ancillaries to streamline installation.
Fits:
- Porsche Boxster 986 2.5L 1997-99
What the IMS Bearing Upgrade Kit Does
This complete kit:
- Replaces
the vulnerable original IMS bearing with a fortified,
precision-engineered alternative
- Reduces friction and improves lubrication stability
- Protects the intermediate shaft from premature wear
- Prevents metal debris contamination inside the engine
- Restores confidence in long-term engine reliability
- Includes all necessary hardware, clamps, sleeves and seals for a seamless installation
Designed to meet the demands of both road use and high-performance driving.
Why IMS Bearings Fail in Porsche M96 Engines
Common causes include:
- Lubrication
starvation, leading to ball bearing scoring
- Seal
degradation, causing grease loss and overheating
- Contaminants entering the bearing assembly
- High
engine speeds, accelerating wear
- Age-related material fatigue
- Inadequate internal lubrication flow in the early intermediate shaft design
Symptoms are often subtle—or non-existent—until severe engine damage has occurred.
Why the IMS Bearing Should Be Upgraded
Upgrading the IMS bearing provides:
- Prevention of catastrophic bearing failure
- Significant extension of engine lifespan
- Peace of mind for owners of 986 Boxster models
- A stronger, more stable bearing with improved lubrication path
- Reduction in maintenance costs over time
- A complete installation solution thanks to included ancillaries
This kit is essential for any Porsche owner planning long-term stewardship, spirited driving, or engine rebuild work.
Related reference numbers
Related, superseded, cross reference or alternative numbers for comparison.
IMSKIT986MAN.1
The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
- Porsche Boxster 986 2.5L 1997-99
IMS Bearing Upgrade Kit with Full Ancillaries – Essential Reliability Upgrade for 986 Boxster 2.5ltr with Tiptronic Gearbox
This IMS bearing upgrade kit includes everything
needed to replace and enhance the intermediate shaft bearing in the Porsche 986 Boxster 2.5ltr with M96 engines. This complete
package includes the upgraded bearing assembly, new hardware, seals, exhaust
clamps, sleeves and all required ancillaries to streamline installation.
Fits:
- Porsche Boxster 986 2.5L 1997-99
What the IMS Bearing Upgrade Kit Does
This complete kit:
- Replaces
the vulnerable original IMS bearing with a fortified,
precision-engineered alternative
- Reduces friction and improves lubrication stability
- Protects the intermediate shaft from premature wear
- Prevents metal debris contamination inside the engine
- Restores confidence in long-term engine reliability
- Includes all necessary hardware, clamps, sleeves and seals for a seamless installation
Designed to meet the demands of both road use and high-performance driving.
Why IMS Bearings Fail in Porsche M96 Engines
Common causes include:
- Lubrication
starvation, leading to ball bearing scoring
- Seal
degradation, causing grease loss and overheating
- Contaminants entering the bearing assembly
- High
engine speeds, accelerating wear
- Age-related material fatigue
- Inadequate internal lubrication flow in the early intermediate shaft design
Symptoms are often subtle—or non-existent—until severe engine damage has occurred.
Why the IMS Bearing Should Be Upgraded
Upgrading the IMS bearing provides:
- Prevention of catastrophic bearing failure
- Significant extension of engine lifespan
- Peace of mind for owners of 986 Boxster models
- A stronger, more stable bearing with improved lubrication path
- Reduction in maintenance costs over time
- A complete installation solution thanks to included ancillaries
This kit is essential for any Porsche owner planning long-term stewardship, spirited driving, or engine rebuild work.
Related reference numbers
Related, superseded, cross reference or alternative numbers for comparison.
IMSKIT986TIP.1
The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
- Porsche Boxster 986 2.5L 1997-99
for M96 Engines and Early M97.01
Fits:
Porsche 996 C2 3.4L 1998 - 2001
Porsche 996 C2 3.6L 2002 - 2004
Porsche 996 C4 3.4L 1999>>
Porsche 996 C4 3.6L 2000>>
Porsche 996 C4 3.4L 2001>>
Porsche 996 C4 3.6L 2002 - 2004
Porsche 996 C4S 3.6L 2002- 2005
Porsche 997 C2 3.6L 2005 M96.05
Porsche 997 C2S 3.8L 2005 M97.01**
Porsche 997 C4 3.6L 2005 M96.05
Porsche 997 C4S 3.8L 2005 M97.01**
**Engine (3.8) number up to M97/01 68509790 has the older IMS bearing (this product fits) and Engine number from M97/01 68509791 has the larger revised IMS. (this product does not fit)
Porsche Boxster 986 2.5L 1997 - 1999
Porsche Boxster 986 2.7L 2000 - 2003
Porsche Boxster 986 2.7L 2004 - 2005
Porsche Boxster S 986 3.2L 2000 - 2005
Porsche Boxster 987 2.7L / 3.2L / 3.4L
**M96 Engine only
Fits engine types: Carrera 996 M96 engines, Boxster 986 M96 Engines, Boxster 987 M96 Engines, Carrera 997 M96 & M97.01 **Engine (3.8) number up to M97/01 68509790 has the older IMS bearing (this product fits) and Engine number from M97/01 68509791 has the larger revised IMS. (this product does not fit)
IMS Eternal Fix retro fit kit installs in-car without removal or disassembly of the engine required. The Cylindrical Bearing with Thrust Control design has a load capacity 5 times greater than the inferior, failure prone, Ball Bearing solutions on the market!
Why Cylindrical is Best?
Cylindrical Bearings have very high load bearing capacity, 5 times more than Ball Bearing. Cylindrical Bearings are used in, High Temp & Low Viscosity Lubrication such as Automatic Transmissions. They can carry extreme lateral pressure without wear to the friction surfaces. This is because the bearing friction surface is flat not concave.
For More Information CLICK HERE
For Installation Instructions CLICK HERE
Related reference numbers
Related, superseded, cross reference or alternative numbers for comparison.
99610590102EPS
The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
- Porsche Boxster 986 2.5L 1997-99
- Porsche Boxster 986 2.7L 1999-02
- Porsche Boxster S 986 3.2L 1999-02
- Porsche Boxster 986 2.7L 2003-04
- Porsche Boxster S 986 3.2L 2003-04
- Porsche Boxster 987 2.7L 2005 -08/08
- Porsche Boxster 987 S 3.2/3.4L 2005-08/08
- Porsche 996 C2 3.4L 1997-08/01
- Porsche 996 C4 3.4L 1997-08/01
- Porsche 996 C2 3.6L 09/01-2005
- Porsche 996 C4 3.6L 09/01-2005
- Porsche 996 C4S 3.6L 09/01-2005
- Porsche 997 MK1 Carrera 2 3.6L 2005-08
- Porsche 997 MK1 Carrera 2S 3.8L 2005-08
- Porsche 997 MK1 Carrera 4 3.6L 2005-08
- Porsche 997 MK1 Carrera 4S 3.8L 2005-08
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12 Month Warranty
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-
crankcase 986 Boxster 1997-04 101-05
-
crankshaft 986 Boxster 1997-04 102-00
-
camshaft driving mechanism 986 Boxster 1997-04 103-10
-
oil pump 986 Boxster 1997-04 104-00
-
engine lubrication 986 Boxster 1997-04 104-05
-
engine suspension 986 Boxster 1997-04 109-00
-
exhaust system M 96.20 for 986 Boxster 1997-04 202-00
-
exhaust system for 986 Boxster M 96.21/22 2000-02 and 986 Boxster M 96.23/24 2003 ONWARDS 202-05
-
clutch 986 Boxster 2.5L (M96.20/22/23) 1997-04 301-00
-
clutch 986 Boxster S 3.2L (M96.21/24) 2000-04 301-01
-
tiptronic torque converter for 986 Boxster A86.00 1997-99, 986 Boxster A86.05 2000-04 and 986 Boxster S A86.20 2000-04 330-00
-
rear axle, side section, bracket 986 Boxster 1997-04 501-01
-
shock absorber coil spring 986 Boxster 1997-04 502-00
-
brake master cylinder, brake booster, pre-charge pump 986 Boxster 1997-04 604-00
-
handbrake actuator 986 Boxster 1997-04 701-05
-
pedals 986 Boxster 1998 ONWARDS 702-01
-
battery, power distributor, starter, generator 986 Boxster / Boxster S 1997-04 902-05
Porsche IMS Replacement Bearings – Engine Protection Through Precision Engineering
The Intermediate Shaft (IMS) bearing is one of the most critical components in Porsche’s flat-six engines, responsible for maintaining smooth timing between the crankshaft and camshafts. When functioning properly, it allows the engine to perform with the precision, responsiveness, and reliability expected from a Porsche. When it fails, however, it can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
At Design911, we offer a complete range of precision-engineered IMS replacement bearings and upgrade kits designed to eliminate the weaknesses of early bearing designs. Manufactured from high-grade, wear-resistant materials with advanced sealing and lubrication systems, our bearings provide superior durability, reduced friction, and extended service life — protecting your engine against one of its most well-known vulnerabilities.
Whether you’re restoring a 911, maintaining a Cayman, or upgrading a Boxster, our manufacturer-quality IMS bearings deliver lasting reliability, smooth operation, and peace of mind.
What Do IMS Bearings Do?
The IMS bearing supports the intermediate shaft inside the engine, allowing it to spin smoothly while connecting the crankshaft to the camshafts.
Core Functions:
- Supports
the intermediate shaft, ensuring smooth rotation.
- Maintains
precise timing between camshafts and crankshaft.
- Reduces mechanical friction and vibration.
- Protects engine components from timing misalignment and wear.
A properly functioning IMS bearing is essential for accurate engine timing, long-term reliability, and performance consistency.
Why Do IMS Bearings Fail?
Certain Porsche engines (particularly early 986, 987, 996, and 997 models) are prone to IMS bearing failure due to design limitations and harsh operating conditions.
Common Causes of Failure Include:
- Insufficient
lubrication, leading to bearing seizure.
- Oil
contamination or breakdown of seals allowing debris ingress.
- Age
and heat cycles, degrading bearing materials over time.
- Overloaded
bearing design, unable to handle prolonged high RPM operation.
- Corrosion and fatigue, especially in older engines with infrequent oil changes.
Typical symptoms of IMS bearing failure include metal shavings in the oil filter, oil leaks, unusual engine noise, and warning lights, all of which signal an urgent need for inspection or replacement.
Why Replace with a Precision-Engineered IMS Bearing Upgrade?
Replacing your IMS bearing with an upgraded, precision-engineered replacement is one of the most effective ways to prevent catastrophic engine failure. Modern IMS bearing kits feature improved lubrication, advanced sealing, and high-performance materials that deliver years of reliable service.
Key Benefits:
- Eliminates the risk of IMS bearing failure.
- Improves engine timing accuracy and reliability.
- Reduces friction, vibration, and mechanical noise.
- Enhances lubrication and load distribution.
- Constructed from corrosion- and heat-resistant materials.
- Direct-fit design for easy installation on multiple Porsche models.
Our IMS replacement bearings are ideal for preventive maintenance, rebuilds, or upgrades, ensuring your Porsche’s engine remains protected under all driving conditions.
Highlights:
- High-quality IMS bearing replacements for Porsche engines.
- Improved design for superior lubrication and durability.
- Precision-engineered for strength and reliability.
- Direct-fit
compatibility for classic and modern Porsche models.
- Reduces friction and extends engine lifespan.
- Essential upgrade for performance or reliability-focused rebuilds.
Your Porsche IMS Bearing: The Need-to-Knows | Design 911 Articles
