- 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
IMS Bearing Upgrade Kit with Full Ancillaries – Essential Reliability Upgrade for 997 Porsche M96/M97 Engines
This IMS bearing upgrade kit includes everything
needed to replace and enhance the intermediate shaft bearing in Porsche M96 and
early M97 engines. Designed for early 997.1 manual models, this complete
package includes the upgraded bearing assembly, new hardware, seals, exhaust
clamps, sleeves and all required ancillaries to streamline installation.
Fits:
**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)
The IMS (Intermediate Shaft) bearing supports the
intermediate shaft that drives the camshafts. When the original bearing design
deteriorates, it can fail without warning—leading to catastrophic engine
damage. Upgrading to a modern, precision-engineered bearing significantly
improves durability and long-term reliability, making this kit one of the most
important preventative maintenance investments for these Porsche models.
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/M97 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 996/997/986/987 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.
IMSKIT997MAN.1
The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
This kit is comprised of the following items: