When it comes to Porsche engine reliability, few topics spark as much conversation as the intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing. Fortunately, there's one patented, permanent fix: the IMS Solution.
In this comprehensive guide, Jake Raby of Flat 6 Innovations walks viewers through the installation process for the IMS Solution, a retrofit engineered to eliminate IMS bearing failure—a well-known Achilles' heel in Porsche M96 and M97 engines. Based on the video walkthrough and the official 2023 IMS Solution installation manual, here’s everything you need to know.
✅ Pre-Installation: Critical Qualification Comes First
Before installation begins, pre-qualify the engine to ensure it's a viable candidate:
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Perform a full diagnostic scan (fault codes, camshaft deviation, over-revs)
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Check crankcase vacuum and inspect for debris in the oil, filter, and sump
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Perform a bore scope inspection of cylinder bores
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Never install the IMS Solution in an engine that has suffered a prior IMS failure
🛠️ For full details, read the 11-step IMS Pre-Qualification Procedure in the manual.
🔧 Step-by-Step IMS Solution Installation Summary
The installation is broken down into a series of chronological, precision-based steps:
1. Remove the Gearbox
Start by pulling the transaxle to gain access to the IMS flange (911 Tiptronic owners will need to remove the engine as well).
2. Set the Engine to TDC
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Rotate the crankshaft clockwise to top dead center (TDC) for Cylinder 1
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Lock the crankshaft with the IMS Pro Toolkit’s locking pin
⚠️ Performing the procedure out of time will result in camshaft timing errors.
3. Secure Camshafts and Remove Chain Tensioners
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Remove bore plugs and lock the right-side camshaft
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Remove all three timing chain tensioners (left, right, and IMS-side)
4. Modify the Crankcase for Oil Feed Line
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Use a drill and handsaw to create an oil feed port
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File the opening to ~20mm to allow fitting of the IMS Solution oil feed fitting
🛠️ This step is critical to enable the oil-fed design of the IMS Solution. The flange serves as a drilling template.
5. Remove the Original IMS Bearing
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Use the IMS Pro Tool to extract the bearing through the center stud
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Clean the intermediate shaft thoroughly
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Install the supplied plug using the provided installation tool
6. Install the IMS Solution Bearing
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Lubricate and tap the bearing into place with a soft-faced hammer
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Place the protective shim and reuse the original snap ring (or spiro-loc if dual row)
7. Install the IMS Solution Flange
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Lubricate the O-ring and bearing surfaces
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Tap the flange in until flush with the crankcase
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Torque flange bolts to 7 ft-lbs and the center nut to 12–20 ft-lbs
8. Spin-On Oil Filter Adapter Installation
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Lubricate and install the adapter with supplied sealant
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Use the provided shim if needed to clock the fitting correctly
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Torque to 18 ft-lbs using a special spanner wrench
9. Install Oil Feed Line and Finalize
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Connect the stainless-steel braided oil line from the filter adapter to the flange
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Tighten both fittings and install a WIX 51348 oil filter
🛠 Post-Installation Checks & First Start
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Start the engine and run it until the oil light goes out
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Check for any oil leaks
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Verify oil line clearance—especially on vehicles with aftermarket sway bars
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Use Driven DT40 oil for street use, XP9 for track duty
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Change oil every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first
🔁 Cycle the ignition 4–5 times to build oil pressure before full engine start.
Why the IMS Solution Is the Only Permanent Fix
Unlike conventional ceramic hybrid bearing retrofits, the IMS Solution:
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Eliminates the ball bearing entirely
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Is oil-fed for superior lubrication
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Requires no future servicing
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Is the only retrofit protected by three U.S. patents
The IMS Solution is the result of years of development by Jake Raby and Charles Navarro of LN Engineering and has been successfully installed in tens of thousands of vehicles worldwide.
🔗 Learn More:
Final Thoughts
Installing the IMS Solution is not just a repair—it’s preventative engineering. Done correctly, it transforms the Porsche M96 or M97 engine into a far more robust, reliable powerplant. As Jake says:
"There’s only one permanent fix for the IMS bearing—and that’s the IMS Solution."
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