Iskander Performance IMS oil supply kit for Porsche M97 engine

For the Porsche 997.1 (MY 2006–2008) and 987.1 Cayman and Boxster generations with an M97 intermediate shaft bearing, the situation regarding the replacement of an IMS (Intermediate Shaft) bearing is different than with the earlier M96 engines.

The major difference: Replacing an IMS on MY06–08 always requires complete engine disassembly!

Reason: The IMS bearing is not accessible from outside, the hole is smaller than the original IMS.

If you want additional safety around the IMS bearing for a MY06-08, here is an explanation between 2 different solutions: The LN Engineering IMS Retrofit bearing MY 06-08 and the Iskander Performance Direct oil feed kit: 

LN Engineering IMS Retrofit or IMS Solution (2006–2008) 

  • Required for MY06–08 always a complete motor disassembly The bearing is not accessible from the outside, because the hole is smaller than the original IMS Porsche bearing
  • After installation of the LN retrofit bearing, this is for service can be replaced, because the inner part of the LN bearing is smaller than the hole in the motor. So to driving during an engine overhaul.
  • With the LN Solution, the entire bearing system is replaced by a thrust bearing. Then you'll never have to worry about it again.
  • Oil supply: With an LN IMS Retrofit bearing, the bearing is lubricated via the existing internal oil supply, but the lubrication remains passive and not active under pressure. With the IMS Solution, it is an active pressure system with a Plain bearing, as in the classic air-cooled models.

Direct Oil Supply Kit from Iskander Performancee 

  • The DOT system is an add-on for the existing Porsche IMS bearing, where an oil line goes directly to the IMS bearing.
  • This makes the bearing a constant pressure lubrication with engine oil instead of splash/bath lubrication only.

    Benefit:
  • Installation without motor removal! 
  • Reduced risk of running dry and thermal stress → extends lifespan 
  • Disadvantage: remains dependent on the quality of the bearing itself; if the lower fails, oil supply does not protect against mechanical breakage.

Comparison

  • LN Engineering IMS Retrofit/Solution (06–08) = structurally different bearing, the engine must be taken out and taken apart. 
  • Direct Oil Feed (DOF) = pressurized oil supply to the existing bearing, easier to install.

 Direct Oil Supply DOT LN Engineering Retrofit
Application
Additional oil supply to existing
stock
 Replace bearing
Access
Without motor removal, piping is mounted externally
externally mounted
 Engine taken apart
Lubrication Active, under pressure Retrofit = Passive (internal circuit/splash) Solution = Active, under pressure
Reliability
Improved lubrication, but the bearing itself can still fail.
Retrofit = Much higher than OEM, lower remains a critical service point. Solution = 100% reliable solution
Costs Bearing (can be removed from under the engine)
Higher (engine removal + complete replacement)
Permanence
Improvement, but service item remains lower
Structural solution, often "lifetime"
Price € 699, - € 1.899, -

Assortment

LN Engineering IMS Retrofit/Solution (06–08) = structurally different bearing, the engine must be taken out and taken apart.

Direct Oil Feed (DOF) = pressurized oil supply to the existing bearing, easier to install.