Premium IMS Single Row Bearing For Porsche
$600.00
Part# EM-IMS-996986S
Upgrade your Porsche 996 with our premium IMS single row bearing, specifically designed for models from 2001 to 2005. This high-performance bearing, made in Germany, is engineered for longevity and reliability, boasting a lifetime warranty to give you peace of mind on the road.
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Description
The Emegatronic Porsche IMS Single-Row Bearing is a German-manufactured replacement for the factory Porsche Intermediate Shaft (IMS) bearing, engineered for the M96 flat-six engine found in the 996.2 Carrera (2002–early 2005), 986 Boxster (2002–2004), and very early 987/997 models. It uses a reinforced brass cage design, is rated to 22,000 RPM and 6,500 lbs load capacity, and ships with an installation tool and ARP nut. Backed by a lifetime warranty.
Why Does the Porsche IMS Bearing Fail?
Every Porsche M96 and M97 engine relies on an intermediate shaft to indirectly drive the camshafts off the crankshaft — a design inherited from Porsche’s air-cooled flat-six architecture. The IMS bearing supports that shaft at the flywheel end of the engine.
When this bearing is starved of lubrication or reaches the end of its service life, it can develop spalling (fatigue pitting) or fracture outright. Once the bearing fails, the timing chain loses tension control, camshaft timing shifts, and in worst-case scenarios valve-to-piston contact occurs — resulting in catastrophic engine failure that requires a full teardown or engine replacement.
This is why IMS bearing failure is one of the most searched and most feared reliability issues among Porsche 986, 996, and early 987/997 owners, and why proactive replacement with a higher-spec single-row bearing is considered standard preventative maintenance in the Porsche independent-repair community.
What Are the Warning Signs of a Failing IMS Bearing?
- Metallic debris or shavings found in the oil filter during an oil change
- An oil leak at the rear of the engine, near the transmission bell housing
- Knocking, rattling, or metallic noise from the rear of the motor
If you notice any of these symptoms, stop driving the vehicle and have it inspected before further damage occurs. Continued driving on a failing IMS bearing can turn a bearing replacement into a full engine rebuild.
Which Porsche Models Fit This IMS Bearing?
| Chassis / Model | Engine | Model Years | Notes |
| 911 Carrera (996.2) | 3.6L M96 | 2002 – early 2005 | Direct fit, single-row bearing generation |
| Boxster (986) | 2.7L / 3.2L S | 2002 – 2004 | Direct fit |
| Early 987 / 997 | M97 | Very early 2005 units only | Confirm via engine serial number |
“Crossover Years” (2000–2001): These model years fall in a transitional production window where Porsche fitted both dual-row and single-row IMS bearings depending on the build date. Before ordering, confirm your engine’s bearing type by checking the Engine Serial Number, stamped on the bottom of the engine sump. Not sure how to read it? Our team can walk you through it — see the FAQ below.
What Are the Technical Specifications of This IMS Bearing?
| Spec | Detail |
| Part Number | EM-IMS-996986S |
| Bearing Type | Single-Row |
| Cage Material | Brass |
| Max Speed Rating | 22,000 RPM |
| Load Capacity | Up to 6,500 lbs |
| Country of Manufacture | Germany |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Included | Installation tool + ARP retaining nut |
| Compatibility | Original factory flange (no modification required) |
What Makes This IMS Bearing Better Than the Factory (OEM) Bearing?
- High-Speed Performance (22,000 RPM Rating) — Built for both daily driving and spirited use without sacrificing reliability.
- Reinforced Brass Cage Design — Reduces internal friction and heat buildup compared to standard plastic-cage OEM designs, extending service life under load.
- Robust Load Rating (6,500 lbs Capacity) — Gives a wider safety margin than factory-spec bearings.
- Drop-In, Original-Flange Installation — Matches the original factory flange dimensions; no case modification required. Installation tool and ARP nut included for a complete, hassle-free upgrade.
- Lifetime Warranty Coverage — Manufactured in Germany and warrantied for the life of the engine.
Why Buy Your IMS Bearing From Emegatronic?
- Porsche, McLaren & BMW specialists — Emegatronic works exclusively on high-performance European platforms, with in-house engine, transmission, and diagnostic expertise (not a generic parts reseller).
- Guaranteed Fitment — Every part is cross-checked against chassis and engine codes before listing.
- Made in Germany — Sourced from an OEM-grade manufacturing supplier, not a generic aftermarket import.
- Direct specialist support — Questions about your engine serial number or bearing type? Call (203) 332-7244 or message our Porsche technicians directly before you order.
Porsche IMS Bearing FAQs
Is this a single-row or dual-row IMS bearing?
This is a single-row bearing, used specifically on later M96/M97 engines (996.2, 986, and very early 987/997). If your car is a 2000–2001 “crossover year” model, confirm your original bearing type via the engine serial number before ordering — earlier engines used a dual-row design that requires a different part.
Does this replace the OEM IMS bearing, or is it a permanent solution like LN Engineering’s IMSsolution?
This single-row bearing is a direct OEM-fitment replacement upgrade — it uses the original factory flange and is a like-for-like preventative-maintenance replacement. It is not a plain-bearing conversion (such as an oil-fed solution); it still follows standard bearing service intervals.
How do I know if my IMS bearing is failing?
Common warning signs include metallic debris in the oil filter, an oil leak at the rear of the engine, or knocking/metallic noise near the transmission. If you notice any of these, avoid driving the car until it’s inspected.
Is professional installation required?
Yes. IMS bearing replacement requires removing the transmission and clutch/flywheel assembly to access the bearing. We recommend installation by a technician experienced with Porsche M96/M97 engines. An installation tool is included to simplify the process for qualified installers.
What’s included in the box?
The bearing, a dedicated installation tool, and an ARP retaining nut for secure fastening.
What warranty does this bearing carry?
A lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects, backed by our in-house Porsche specialist team.
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