Porsche Engine Failures MADE SIMPLE - Hartech Explain IMS, RMS, Bore Scoring for 911, 986 & 987

[@thewaywardgrape3838]

Allowing Julien to talk on camera, was a very, very good idea. Engaging, comfortable and clearly confident in what he's saying!

[@ftboomer1]

I actually agree

[@nevermind2534]

@@ftboomer1 actually came here to comment similar actually

[@Thisonegoestoeleven666]

He was brilliant hey! I love listening to a real experienced expert in their field.

[@EvoraGT430]

Hartech are simply the best at dealing with these (shonky) engines. Would love to see a 4.1 996 test.

[@louisvanrijn3964]

This man is giving a college lecture on engine design for Porsche engineers ! Increadible! Brilliant!

[@MrCaterhamr500]

All of these design flaws yet Porsche has never admitted their mistakes (apart from the North America IMS case), to me that really stinks of disrespect to their customers.

[@jdtseventyfour]

@@MrCaterhamr500 vehicle manufacturers rarely admit fault as it will cost them a lot of money to fix the issue. Issues like these can be missed in the normal development program of a car as the tests to simulate vehicle life of 150k miles 10 years are completed in around 2 to 3 years. Modern cars are even worse due to more reliance on computer analysis rather than physical testing.

[@PatricioGarcia1973]

did toyota admit mistake for the sh* ty engine block on the new Tundras? there is no recall and only replace the block. Everything from your current engine gets transfered to the new block.

[@vikos78]

@@PatricioGarcia1973 How can your compare a basic Tundra and mythical cars like contemporary 911 that have been fooling people for years.

[@malcolmn.5222]

@@vikos78 because they are both cars, thats how you compare

[@SafeBandicoot]

Here in Germany, quite a lot of these affected cars are on rebuilt engines now. The survivors with no rebuild & mega miles/km have a few things in common; They are daily driven, Have the 3.6 or non-S engine, driven quite vigorously on the autobahns and oil changes are done every 6 months when the car goes in for its winter wheel swap. The advise I got from the old engineer i bought my 997.1 from was: Drive it like the way you should make love to your spouse. Regular and vigorous 😂

[@chrisdavidson911]

Similar story with Ducati motorbikes, the ones that fall apart are frequently the ones which don't get used enough

[@mickvonbornemann3824]

@@chrisdavidson911 hence the “Italian tuneup”

[@leeprice386]

drive it like you stole it

[@robnelsonbayvillage]

My 2.7L 2004 Boxster provided 154,600 miles of fun, including many track days. It was a CPO at Penske Porsche in OH when I bought it with 22K on the clock.

[@AntoniusTyas]

The point being: Use your car as it always intended to be, know when it needs maintenance, and give it treatment it deserves. Leaving it as a garage queen is the exact opposite of what they need and want.

[@adrianbennett3761]

Can’t believe a company like Porsche made so many design mistakes on these engines

[@EvoraGT430]

Yet people still decry Toyota-engined Lotus cars.......

[@adrianbennett3761]

@@EvoraGT430 Toyota always carry out proper testing and produce some of the world’s most reliable engines. Evora GT is a future classic. BTW my favourite engine is the V10 in the LFA

[@IronicTonic8]

It wasn't design mistakes, it was severe lack of budget. The M series engines were designed in the mid-90's when porsche was near broke. They had to cut corners because they couldn't afford not to. The success of these cars allowed them to survive and then largely fix the problems of their earlier designs, which is why you don't see these issues in newer models.

[@Silentwitness1978]

They had Toyota come in at the time and help them to streamline their manufacturing processes and techniques. These items were those that fell through the net amongst massive change. They also spent all their money developing the 959.

[@strangerdanger8462]

Folks, it was bad design. Period. Stop making excuses for Porsche. Yes they've corrected it now, but they should be called out when they get it wrong.

[@trevorlane]

Bore score and 7 years ago our Porsche forefathers brought upon us, oil consumption, sooty pipes, ticks, and misfires, and a dream that all 2000s Porsche sports cars are created equal.

[@MrCaterhamr500]

*poorly.

[@pdpauldelaney]

Haha nice

[@Jaq365]

Dang, you beat me to it!

[@robertsole9970]

And all intermediate shafts not equal

[@dr.brianjudedelimaphd743]

@@trevorlane this was pure genius …

[@markfetherston1822]

James, that was a very impressive job of explaining highly technical facts and figures that require talent and skill to communicate clearly. Far harder to get a video like that right than a standard video. Well done indeed. I’m a Porsche owner and that’s the best summary I’ve watched on these issues. Well done and Thankyou.👍

[@mikefuller1478]

Hartech rebuilt my 3.8 carrera S to a 4.1 and its fantastic,loads of torque.These guy's really know what there doing 100%

[@michaelschneider-]

IMS Failure: : .... It's the very best IMS failure video description - -bearing improvement I've ever encountered.

[@Thisonegoestoeleven666]

Well that was fantastic! I'm a service engineer for high-end mass spectrometers so have a real appreciation for good (and bad) design and material choices. I love how the original issues were explained extremely well with accompanying video and still images, and then the reasons for the re-designed and improved parts are delivered with that important background. I leant a lot! Thanks JayEmm

[@andycunns4269]

I have a fresh built 4.1 hartech 997.1 .. 389bhp and 353ftlb, and I can testify, it is absolutely PERFECT for our B roads .. absolutely sublime!!

[@velcingilles3756]

How much was the work? That's what I'd do to mine if I had the dreaded issue...

[@romanparker6571]

It seems James' shirt has also been a victim of bore scoring

[@JoesephBidon]

More like pie feasting

[@nickmoulton446]

They rebuilt my 997’s engine to sort bore scoring. It went on a pallet. Worth the money as i knew what was buying when I bought the car & all the cost back when i sold it.

[@Justy-f8r]

I’ve been running a 996.1 self maintained for 7 years now. A few points: It’s a 20 yo car, I’ve had numerous issues to fix like worn engine mounts, exhaust brackets, steering pump hardline, ac hardline, heat exchanger, AOS. Things which were not broken were worn out like brakes, suspension, steering rack. Old rubber is old rubber, old plastics crack, old metal corrodes. Even though the chassis is galvanised, I’ve spent an entire summer cleaning and resealing a bit of surface corrosion. So it’s not as simple as “this car has an engine issue”. As for the engine, I’ve set aside £13.5k in case the engine goes pop. (AMS is cheaper than Hartech). But it’s not as simple as bore scoring, IMS, RMS. There are also bearings, chains, tensioners, etc. inside the engine. The important thing to note with any 911 is there is no top end / bottom end refresh- got a small issue? Got a big issue? If it’s engine related it’s the whole engine out, at which point a refresh is best given the cost. Usage is also key- the seller used his car sparingly and lightly. I use it every day and, when warm, driven it hard. Driven like that all the issues surfaced over the years. Context is key: go into it blind and it will be a nightmare, but understand what a 20 yo car involves, and you realise the active 911 community ensures these cars live.

[@bugattieb110ss]

They were badly designed in order to save money - it's that simple. I have a '94 Skyline GTR, I've owned it since '98 and it's bomb proof because it was well designed. I therefore do not need to set aside tens of thousands of pounds for when it goes bang!

[@Desertduleler_88]

Sound like expensive money pits to me, I prefer the earlier cars.

[@tompackage]

I had a BMW E39 540i manual for 21 years. I put 55,000 miles on it and no major issues. It's still running now with it's new owner. These Porsches sound ridiculous.

[@corychecketts]

I certainly enjoyed the 996 community when I owned my car. But after a while, you see through the Porsche mystique and see the 996 for what it really is: a giant money pit. I'll always cherish my ownership experience but I'm glad I got over the Porsche allure and went with much better Japanese cars from the early 2000s.

[@MrCaterhamr500]

@@corychecketts I totally agree, my years of Impreza (96 WRX RA) and Evo 6 RS were much better than my 996 C4S ownership, far more reliable. In fact I had a JDM Eunos Roadster with over 140k on the clock that I turbo converted and it was super reliable. There this saying that German engineering is great but every German thing I’ve had has broken ie various Bosch appliances and E-bike, and the Porsche is a pain in the arse and not even designed well (long gearing is just ridiculous to have on a sports car)

[@ronaldroberts9556]

I knew of Baz many years ago as an exceptionally gifted engineer at Caernarfon. His Suzuki engines were incredible. His achievements in solving Porsche engine problems has cemented his reputation in the auto world. A truly remarkable person indeed. Huge respect!

[@peejayarr2323]

@@ronaldroberts9556 you’re so right… re-engineering the existing platform creates a better powerplant that exceeds the original design. A V2.0 in effect

[@dkjens0705]

I've taken many M96/97 engines apart. The IMS always had oil inside it and when changing the bearing you can see and smell how bad and acidic that oil has turned. I know some with the theory and I agree, that especially with all the garage queen cars with these engines, oil will seep into the IMS while the car is parked. This oil is cooked again and again and eventually turns acidic. As some of this acidic oil leaks through the IMS bearing, it washes the lubricant away and the bearing starts going to shit. I always advised owners to, if possible, park their rear engine cars nose high and mid engine cars nose low. This way the oil level is below the IMS bearing and oil won't seep into the shaft. I also agree that an open bearing, splash lubricated by engine oil, is a great solution. We would get many M96/97 blocks sleeved locally and us JE pistons, could go to a 102mm bore and those engines ran absolutely great. Increasing engine volume by 200cc didn't require extra tuning, increasing by 400cc we did send them out to be tuned. The Eco engines with 14:1 compression sounds wild, maybe they installed a methanol injection system. An early 996 with a 6-speed close ratio gearbox, stroked and bored to 4.2 liters would be a dream come true and only cost maximum US$25,000 if you found the right deal on a car with a blown engine. If you plan on tracking these cars, the extra 2 liter deep sump oil pan (US$800) is an absolute must investment or your rod bearing #5, followed by mains will take a shit. To keep bore scoring to a minimum use good quality fuel and keep those fuel injectors in perfect condition with perfect spray patterns to avoid cylinder washing and for Christ sake, use good oil and change it often. Great show, that Barry guy is smart.

[@jbeale54]

Had my 3.8 C4S Cab rebuilt and converted to 4.1 last year with Hartech. Very happy with the results. Pulls really well through the manual gears.

[@mikemagoomcgrady]

4.1 is a must, can’t leave the middle gen out. Great video!

[@A2KLAU]

Thank you James, a very enjoyable and educational watch!! Loved every bit of it because it spoke to the curious mechanical brain inside. Learnt so much and it’s great to know genuine knowledgeable engineers still exist who use their quality of work to speak for themselves.

[@997GURU]

My 2005 997.1 Carerra S now passing 121000 miles, unopened engine, OCI at 5000 miles, oil analysis have been flawless and consistent in my 10 year ownership

[@dannsmcshane1233]

Big Lee is the man saved me from a botched effort my a cowboy from paisley Scotland thanks Lee

[@ant76og22]

Great video, my gen 1 3.4 is at Hartech now having a full rebuild & capacity increase, watching this just confirms my decision to spend the money is going to be well spent. I can't eait to get it back.

[@justinmckeown9029]

You’ll love it and it’s worth every penny. Slakker (Hartech’s US branch) built my 996.1’s 3.4 into a 3.7 and I have no regrets. It’ll take off in 3rd gear with no problem (learned that due to a failing slave cylinder).

[@mattdedasc]

Great video, right from the best in the industry. I have a very early (late 97) 3.4, which I bought 12 years ago. I did my research back in the day and Baz Hart was very informative. So I fitted an upgraded bearing, a lower temperature thermostat (From Hartech) and - touch wood - going strong at 123k miles.

[@NightfallDrives]

Great video 👍 Imagine if Lotus had suffered similar design flaws 🤷‍♂️the British automotive media have a lot to answer for in how these two brands are perceived.

[@milestaylor7096]

Hear hear

[@PatricioGarcia1973]

they have a lot of design flaws. You never had a Lotus Sprit or Lotus Elan?

[@stevenr2463]

Very well explained. I had a 986 about 24 years ago for a couple of years and was lucky.

[@Frank-1978]

Truly one of the best channels on Utube James. Great video. I'll be saving this for future reference 👌👍

[@ryanrobinson2401]

Can’t wait for the 4.1 review! I get a 996.2 with the 3.6 bored to 3.9. It feels great!

[@NunoMiguelDelgado]

Those 996 C4S are gorgeous, at least among 996s. 😮

[@lostinbluespace5210]

I’ve nearly pulled the trigger on a 996 a few times, but never quite got there. This is a brilliant video, probably one of the best you’ve done!

[@artmoore3455]

Great video explaining in understandable terms the design faults on these 911 engines which I have studied previously from information provided by Hartech, but this video crystallised and completed that previous research. Thanks JayEmm and Hartech. Yes JayEmm get a 4.1 997.1 for yourself.

[@dwarfyh32]

I drove those same 996 cars in Feb 23 and the 3.7 eco was the biggest surprise of the day. It pulled hard even from very low rpm, a great piece of engineering from the team. The 3.9 conversion definitely brought the 3.6 bang up to date with an impressive power delivery right up to the red line and bags of torque where you needed it for fast road driving. The 4.1L which was part of the line up on the day turned the heat up even more and i was lucky enough to become the owner soon after. The team at Hartech are exceptional at what they do and are leading the way in keeping these early water cooled cars on the road where they may otherwise have been uneconomical to repair.

[@MrCaterhamr500]

What are the Hp/trq figures for the 4.1?

[@dwarfyh32]

@@MrCaterhamr500 mine is 371 bhp and 450nm

[@MrCaterhamr500]

@@dwarfyh32 thank you, that’s not bad!

[@hawkinsjd11]

This was a brilliant video. Thank you for taking the time and energy to make such an in-depth walk through.

[@greggmay959]

An informative and well balanced analysis, James. I bought my 3.4 996 C2 knowing all that could go wrong (and how to deal with it if it does), it had the IMS and RMS done along with a new clutch shortly before purchase, so far all is good. There is however a tiny little bit of me is still hoping for a cylinder bore issue to rear it's head, only so that I have a good enough excuse to visit Hartech for a set of 3.7 pistons and liners... Keep up the great content 👍

[@petersmith2650]

Spot on. I absolutely love my 996.2 C2. Without fail it makes me smile every time I drive it. If I need a lift I just take it for a spin, it’s super reliable in that sense and I can’t see myself ever selling it. If one day it were to go BANG I’d just take it to Hartech and make it even better🤷🏻‍♂️

[@ryansanchez2448]

I was first frightened to watch this video but, now I'm on cloud nine. Great video and great break down, Hartech is doing the Lord's work bringing new life to these modern classics. 996/986 is definitely my favorite era of Porsche.

[@warrenblacking]

From our "not a lot of people know that department" - the 2006 Boxster S does not have IMS or bore score problems as it has an improved bearing AND cast pistons so is essentially immune. This nice sweet spot does NOT extend to the 2006 Cayman.

[@porscheg50]

@@warrenblacking , exactly what I found out. I then bought a 2006 Boxster S with the large IMS bearing. Now this bearing has gone wrong and I have a lot of metal particles in the filter. The engine has to be rebuilt! So never be to sure. 67000 miles and complete service history….

[@iancharlton678]

Great and informative chat 🙂 Sort of explained my own turmoil searching for my one last attempt to scratch that 911 itch……. and why I went safe/silly and bought a 2001 996 TT coupe……. without your beloved sunroof, with my choice of tiptronic, which I am very pleased with……. Anyhow, you can judge my taste on Sunday in the park 🙂🇬🇧

[@mesaboogieman4001]

Thought I knew all about the problems with these engines but have learnt so much from the detailed explanations, brilliant! Also glad to see my 986 Boxster S doesnt suffer from bore score

[@TexasRiverRat31254]

Thanks for showing us the truth. I spent many hours on the internet and all the info I found said the 987.1 wouldn't suffer from bore score because it was the "old" piston design/coating. Oh well, keep driving it, keep the oil extra fresh and hope for the best. Worst case it goes to a new owner that has funds for a different engine as a complete rebuild is too much. Note...I've owned a couple Corvettes,(C-6,C-7), and it seems high performance cars tend to have issues as everything is taken to the max to achieve those results. If you're concerned about reliability buy a car which has been proven to be exactly that.

[@daggidding4478]

Great informative video. Thanks, James! And yes please to a more in depth video on a 4.1 😃

[@V70P3rules]

JayEmm, More of this type of content please. Very interesting indeed. I knew about borescore, but didn't know the cause, or whether to invest in such an equipped car. Great work👍

[@davidmason1919]

Great to see someone like Julian that actually knows what he’s talking about. Top video 👍

[@nigelsmith3144]

The first expert I've heard talk about these issues! Brilliant.

[@jmhofmeyr]

These small companies don't have buildings filled with marketing people or focus groups with their heads stuck in some text book going " we think more screens, more driver aids, more fake engine sounds". Its just a bunch of clever, proper petrol heads doing whatever they want, and you know what, AT THE END OF THE DAY THEY'RE TAKING THE BIG MANUFACTURERS TO SCHOOL......BRILLIANT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@cj09beira]

its at these small to medium sizes that companies at at their most efficient for sure

[@poolmonkey]

It goes against the anecdotes I grew up hearing about British engineering being substandard compared to German engineering. I guess in this case the tables are turned.

[@dominicanwar363]

Nice that someone can fix what Porsche couldn't give toss about. As far as I am concerned Porsche stopped building cars after the last aircooled 6.

[@leewatkeys9065]

How interesting. I had a full rebuild at an independent dealer about 15 months ago and I believe Porsche bits and pieces were used. With hindsight maybe I should have gone to these guys as they definitely know their stuff. My rebuild including a clutch probably cost more than the car is worth but I’m hoping I’ve got another 15 years out of my Boxster 987.1 S now 🤞🏻

[@llanelli311]

I have a 997.1 C2S which had a Harlech rebuild at 80,000. We are now just past 165,000. I know I’m tempting fate but this engine is sooooooo sweet and has been amazing. Hartech did a wonderful job.

[@IronicTonic8]

This is the reason I bought the 2.7 base cayman. I've owned a 911 and Cayman S, and the base 2.7 Cayman is just as much fun. Don't overlook it.

[@MrCaterhamr500]

They have long gearing though in the 5 speed, not bad if you get the optional 6 speed though. 2.7 is a sweet engine, needs a light flywheel though.

[@IronicTonic8]

@MrCaterhamr500 I've had both the S and the base, the gearing is looong in both and you won't really notice the marginal difference. It's the kind of thing that is easy to spot on paper, nearly impossible to perceived in the real world. The base is tons of fun and it makes you work a little more for the performance by revving it out (which is something I love as a former S2000 owner). Finding a 6-speed base is extremely rare and you'll pay a premium for it, and it's totally not worth it.

[@MrCaterhamr500]

@@IronicTonic8 I agree that the gearing is still long but the gap between ratios is better on a six speed, I’ve owned and tracked both, the six speed IS better when driven properly.

[@garagecedric]

A friend got bore score on his 2.7 Cayman, less risk of course but they arent safe sadly..

[@thebikerepairshopformby]

Very interesting, thanks for posting. This is a proper engineering company, I could listen to this engineer all day, very clever 👊🏻

[@guysoceanharmonics]

That explanation shows a very detailed depth of knowledge, certainly provides confidence in anyone looking for work to be conducted on their vehicle

[@billfrielingsdorf6501]

I love the styling. I grew up lusting after the Stratos and the Esprit, so I guess I am a sucker for a wedge. Keep up the good work. I really enjoy your videos.

[@awpimp]

Great content. I myself had my 997.1c2s full engine rebuilt so yes Hartech guys know their stuffs. 🎉

[@andrewjohnson750]

Dont believe this I've just watched a repeat of wheeler dealers where Elvis went to this company. Eye opening and this video is the same , thanks personally I think Porsche have alot to answer for and should talk to these guys that are sorting their engineering mistakes out . Shocking obviously Porsche dont do recalls they are happy to take your hard earned money and leave you to pay later. Alot of owners wont be watching this cause they have money to waste and keep going back to dealer that will have owners pants down . Porsche dont ever think about making another car without talking to the professional and sack your so called development team. 😂 excellent video many thanks. I will be contacting hart❤

[@timprice5]

What a great video. Very informative. I own a 2006 987.1 S (3.2) and bought it over a later car for exactly the reasons in your table (interestingly the table doesn't mention 3.2 litre cars with the larger IMS circa 2005/55 and 2006/06). Cast pistons, flexible RMS, larger IMS and no bore score (and 360 quid road tax pre-April 06), known as the 'goldilocks 987'. It's been an amazing car for the past 3 years or so. Yes I'd love a 911 but given the aforementioned issues won't be getting rid anytime soon given the Boxster has cost me under £15k in total and done almost 20k miles with very little trouble.

[@joeschiavi282]

What a knowledgeable guy. He certainly didn’t skip on his education.

[@carlstow2076]

One of your best videos. Would love to see more Hartech Porsche content please 🙏

[@olio_benzina]

Excellent video, thanks. Never seen so much detailed information on Porsche engine problems in one place. The engineer's explanation on what causes and cures these problems was also excellent. My first Porsche was a 981 Cayman 2.7 manual. Current Porsche is a 718 GTS 4.0 manual. No problems with the 981 and none so far with the 718 GTS 4.0 after 3 years from new. I love Porsches but what a sad indictment of poor engineering on those earlier liquid cooled engines. This from a car maker that prides and promotes itself on its engineering prowess. I realize that the later engine types are much improved but I'm definitely going to pay for the extended Porsche Factory Warranty for as long as possible.

[@francescorochira773]

Another great video James. I've heard of Hartech and seen some videos of their amazing work. I have a 1999 Porsche 996 with a replacement engine that has the larger single row IMS bearing. It's a factory replacement that was done by the previous owner some 35k mikes ago. Great car, I've owned it now close to 4 years and it's a great all rounder. It's also ULEZ compliant, which is useful when visiting my brother in London. Get the hartech conversion 4.1, go on you know you want to.

[@johnshanklin6633]

Great one stop explanations of shortcomings of our fav flat sixes from an expert. Wonderful idea. And yes you should do in depth review of one of their conversions. I look forward to it.

[@dime124]

What a cool video. Now I want my 997.2S converted to 4.2 with more torque! Time to go send an email.

[@brightenupcc]

I never thought you’d ever mention M96 motor ailments again but here we are. I’m excited!

[@misterbarrows1]

Great video which properly explains the issues which even I understand. Before buying a 986S I spent ages trying to find 'realistic' info on their problems. Turns out the internet will have you believe these cars will blow up as soon as you turn the key. It's not true, and statistically the percentages are very low of there being any issues. I sold my Boxster last year. No mechanical issues whatsoever, but I realised rust was starting to appear somewhere unexpected and I wanted something else by then.

[@neilturner6749]

I bought a 2004 986S (facelift with the improved engine) in 2017 with 90k on the clock and spoke to 2 well-known independent specialists as well as 2 OPCs, and none of them had seen a single case of IMS failure in the last 10 years. They all strongly advised not to waste £3k on an IMS change (40% of my cars value) on old models like the 986 and 996 as, if your car was affected, the original bearing would’ve long gone by now and you’ve now far more expensive things to potentially worry about, such as gearbox failure.

[@WKBaker4]

Nice video! Thanks. Porsche 996.1 owner in Japan 🇯🇵

[@warrenlucier5796]

Great video explaining the situation within a half hour, that depicts what and why this happens, with the M96 & M97 engine series. The ferrous piston skirt coating being banned was the largest reason for the bore scoring happening and in the MA1/9A1 engine design they went back to what they knew from the air cooled and Mezger engine series. Only 5 since 2009 that they have seen with cold seizing and these may be from the change in thermal management that came in the 981/991, as I've not heard about it in the 987.2 & 997.2 engines. The 9A2, which came from the 9A1 engine design went to an Arc Plasma Bore (iron) and I've not heard of these engines having bore problems; but maybe they could have and I'm just not aware of it.

[@filipejoaoleonardo]

JAY, once again, great video, congrats. but now its time to buy a 986.2 S 3.2 and go to hartech for the 3.7 conversion. everyone wants to see an old boxster and what they capable of doing. there are so many boxsters on the road in europe.

[@gamingvibrations5320]

This is an absolutely brilliant video. Can't believe I wasn't subscribed to this channel earlier.

[@Pithead]

Lend him a car or two please, Hartech. Seems like they've got great solutions for serious problems.

[@2605155]

As usual, your deep dives are very entertaining and supremely informational. Now I understand.

[@west167]

Thank you very much!!!! You did a fantastic job of explaining the problem and having the solution of fixing it!!! Really appreciated

[@busstophere]

You have a really good show, you get into the details. I really like your show.

[@GC-kp7lo]

Enjoy and appreciate your videos. Yep, you should get a 996.2 3.6 and get the engine rebuilt to a 4.1 and do a review. The 996.2 is an excellent car with a classic look and handling feel. Best bargain in the sports car world, but not for long thanks to the aftermarket parts and solutions that keep being developed to keep these babies running strong. Everybody will want one.

[@engared]

Will send my engine into them soon. Make it a lovely 4.1. :)

[@roderickjones7479]

Half of the time I didn't know what he was talking about BUT it was still very interesting...we need more videos like this. Keep up the good work. Also...give the deck chair back it's material...

[@iainb9277]

That video deserves a lot more than 110k views.

[@chrisbuck7923]

Interesting. I once had a 987 and was afraid of IMS failure, thankfully it didn't happen.

[@chrisgoldsmith4397]

Really nice breakdown of IMS and RMS issues. IMS has been often overblown. By buying 06 onwards you should be ok. 05 tricky year as IMS could be either a bigger reliable bearing or the smaller single row. Jay's summary of bore scoring risk for all the models half way through the video is spot on.... lot's of reasons why, casting issues, oiling, pistons cast (better) than forged, bore size, v long service intervals, cold climate, idling without driving and much more. Porsche Club America have 4 hours of videos to scare you. We have to remember these engines are two decades old. Sooty tail pipe and tapping are late signs. Having engine scoped before is advised but you'll need to approach bores from below.....I'm not sure all sellers will agree to this. Lot's of other things from air oil separators, corroded cross over pipes, clutches. Own a 08 Boxter 2.7 and IMO they sound better than 911 Cabriolet. Whilst they're are a few around you can be picky. 6k miles in mine last year nd I love the car. I prefer the drive of 987.1, exhaust tone and front but 987.2 are less common and command a premium. These are wonderful cars and IMO the 911 987.1 was the prettiest 911.

[@BenB91]

Very educational, thank you. I previously owned a 997.2. It was around £8k more than a 997.1 but worth every penny for the improved engine and other updates, plus it was 3 years newer.

[@davidgoliath5901]

Dear Julian, I suspect you may have done the exhaust on my 2012 Jaguar XK150 5lt (?). Just letting you know it's so very much appreciated!!.... it sounds incredible. A work of art.

[@slipstream1]

Fabulous video, no silly alarmist talk, clear, informative and entertaining (for me anyway)

[@speedypete64]

A great video, informative and superbly presented. It's convinced me to definitely not buy a Porsche, though what Hartech can do is amazing in giving these engines a new life.

[@iruletheworld12]

Absolutely love the Futurama reference! ❤

[@corychecketts]

The two happiest days of my Porsche ownership experience was the day I bought my 911 and the day I sold my 996. Don't get me wrong, my '99 911 was a fun car to drive but it required more money than I wanted to part with. Great video, Jay. Super informative.

[@MrCaterhamr500]

I get that, in a very similar position just struggling with what next. I thought the 996 was very watered down, the gearing was too long, the throttle response was slow, and I’d felt better steering feel on my old Evo 6 RS. I’m looking at proper lightweight sports cars next, maybe a Lotus Exige or Caterham R400 that actually get the blood pumping. I thing my heart rate never jumped when I used the 996 acceleration, really was ‘meh’ performance (spoiled by the long gearing that Porsche seem obsessed with)

[@corychecketts]

⁠​⁠​⁠@@MrCaterhamr500 I’d get the Caterham. It’s the closest thing to a go-kart that you can drive on the streets. Plus it’ll be cheaper to run. You’re right, the Porsche gears are too long.

[@therealjamesmarchant]

Thank you for producing such a fine video. The descriptions of the problems cuts through all the Internet bluster.

[@5alm0n]

Really enjoyed learning and seeing more about IMS problems. It’s something I’ve always heard about. But never really seen/explained

[@seanmyers8625]

Great vid. I had a 997.2 with a Porsche warranty. It was perfect apart from sticky second gear when cold and it burned ALOT of expensive Mobil 1! Brought this up with OPC and they got me to measure the oil consumption: it was something like 800ml /1000 miles. They said they wouldn’t do anything unless it was over 1ltr/1000 miles or there were obvious signs of bore scoring . I think I read they moved the goalposts on the oil consumption figures to reduce the number of warranty claims. I moved it on for other reasons, but was worried what could happen once I wasn’t able to extend the Porsche warranty anymore.

[@julianneale6128]

What a great and highly informative video. If I had a Porsche with engine issues, this place in question, is for sure, the place I'd take it. Also, if we're looking at around £12000 for a major rebuild (and you could afford it), to spend an extre £3000 for an increased swept volume, seems a very tempting offer! It would make it all worth the effort, and itd drive noticeably better, and longer than ever!

[@GT380man]

+1. I’ve a low mileage & well maintained 996.2. It feels like a new car yet, in the unlikely event I ever wear out the engine, there are terrific opportunities at Hartech to soften the bow.,

[@MrCaterhamr500]

The issue is that’s plus VAT so you are nearly spending the value of the car all over again, and will not get much back at all. I don’t know many folk that can afford to lose £15,0000

[@johncranston4051]

Very good explanation of these engines Most don’t have problems

[@the_canyon_carver]

I recently just got rid of my 996.1. I couldn’t stand the thought that I was going to have to go through this eventually. The math just doesn’t make sense. I recently got a S2 Elise with a 2ZZ and a C5 Z06 and haven’t looked back. Happy to ditch the ticking time bomb. Drove in a 4L built 996 and really wasn’t that impressed with how much it cost.

[@valvonauta]

Yeah Jay, please test the 4.1. I am personally really interested in converting mine 3.6 before the engine blows off.

[@TenchiFreak5]

I wasn't afraid of IMS or RMS, because mine had had both tended to before I even bought it. But the bore scoring issue, which read to me like no matter how much you take care of the car it's something that is going to happen because there's no guaranteed known direct cause for any of the 3.6/3.8 liter 911 engines, was something that honestly concerned me enough in the two years that I had my 996.2 that I ultimately ended up selling it. I liked the car but the thought that I would start it one day and it would start belching white smoke was always stressful.

[@MrCaterhamr500]

In a similar position, I know exactly how you feel.

[@niall3973]

I think white smoke is common for most 997 and 996 and 987s. I had a 997.2 C4S and if I didnt drive it for a few days I get quite a bit of it. There are a few videos on yt about it. Something about the AOC or something. I never bothered to find out more when I heard it was common

[@grande_007]

I did exactly the same with my 987S. Simply removed any enjoyment from the ownership process…

[@pscunningham1981]

I’m surprised you found the 3.9 C4S more civilised. Mine is just run in and is feral! 😂. The pink one is Tip though? Great video, thank you for spreading the word. I don’t regret sinking my original purchase price again repairing and converting mine.

[@MrCaterhamr500]

Do you not worry about the resale value though, as there is a very slim chance you recoup even 50% of the money spent. Genuine question as a 996 owner.

[@pscunningham1981]

@@MrCaterhamr500 I used “man maths” to rationalise it. £9k to repair one cylinder and piston and wait for the other 5 to fail. Or take the loss of selling with the ticking and the oil use and the black rear end. So knock £10,000 off what I thought it was worth. Or replace all 6 cylinders and pistons to get back what I thought I had before the symptoms for £16k. Or go all in and have the conversion done, get something better than I had and run, enjoy and look after it until more of the same car of the same age manifest the inevitable same problem, have them either disappear or the reputation of my option build faith and desirability and some value. I’m now looking for a failed C4S Cab so I can do more of the work myself and have two 🤣🤣🤷‍♂️🤷‍♂️

[@JamesOversteer]

I love this kind of content. Smart people solving problems, telling you why and how. Cracking video. So much information condensed into this. Bonus: take a shot every time the engineer says ‘actual’.

[@jge5443]

These issues were certainly the main reason I went for the Gen 2 997 S. Even though I have had no issues in the 8 years I've owned the car I must admit the 4.2 conversion sounds very tempting. 🙂

[@zoppotromp1958]

When does the Ferrari and Aston engine failure video come out? Now since the Porsche disappeared from my list, this is urgently needed as well.

[@gairnmclennan5876]

I love the engine details in the show and tell section.

[@wamgoc]

Looking at an older Boxster for a few European trips! This has given me a few more tips! Thanks!😊

[@tomthompson7400]

He certainly talks the talk , and explains very well both the cause and the cure or each issue .... shame he mentioned his background was with JLR the only outfit that makes Alfa Romeo look reliable ...

[@DavidKeegan-b2b]

Very informative...excellent summary tables & clarifies 987.2/997.2 9A1 engine status

[@mikegreenberg1524]

I own a 987.1 2.7 2006. 118 k, with mods. I change the oil with hi silicone racing oil every 5 k. NOT one engine issue since I bought it in 2007! Car runs awesome. Had it up to 135 mph the other day (yea, once a year. LOL). Not one hiccup! Stayed right with that Mustang GT!

[@johnreed3576]

Great vid James! And yes, a long review would be awesome! All of us Porsche owners have one eye on Hartec for when the inevitable happens, ( and a credit card quivering with fear for when it does!)