Shock absorber groove ball bearing. Porsche 996 / 997 / 986 Boxster / 987 Boxster / 987C Cayman  ❭  99634351505

Shock Absorber Groove Ball Bearing 
Sold each - 2 required per car

Restore smooth and precise suspension operation with this OE Match Shock Absorber Groove Ball Bearing. The groove ball bearing forms part of the shock absorber and strut mounting assembly, allowing suspension components to move and rotate smoothly while supporting the loads transmitted through the suspension.

Fits:

• Porsche Boxster 986 2.5L 1997-99
• Porsche Boxster 986 2.7L 1999-02
• Porsche Boxster S 986 3.2L 1999-02
• Porsche Boxster 986 2.7L 2003-04
• Porsche Boxster S 986 3.2L 2003-04
• Porsche Boxster 987 2.7L 2005-08/08
• Porsche Boxster 987 S 3.2/3.4L 2005-08/08
• Porsche Boxster 987 MKII 2.9L 2009-12
• Porsche Boxster S 987 MKII 3.4L 2009-12
• Porsche 996 C2 3.4L 1997-08/01
• Porsche 996 C2 3.6L 09/01-2005
• Porsche 997 MK1 Carrera 2 3.6L 2005-08
• Porsche 997 MK1 Carrera 2S 3.8L 2005-08
• Porsche 997 MKII Carrera C2 3.6L 2009-12
• Porsche 997 MKII Carrera C2S 3.8L 2009-12
• Porsche Cayman 2.7L 987C 2006-08
• Porsche Cayman S 3.4L 987C 2005-08
• Porsche Cayman 2.9L 987C MKII 2009-12
• Porsche Cayman S / R 3.4L 987C MKII 2009-12

As these bearings age, wear or contamination can lead to increased friction, noise and rough operation. Replacing worn bearings during suspension maintenance can help restore smooth movement and eliminate unwanted play or noises from the strut assembly.

What Does a Shock Absorber Groove Ball Bearing Do?

The groove ball bearing allows controlled, low-friction movement within the suspension and shock absorber mounting assembly.

On the front suspension, smooth bearing movement is particularly important as the strut assembly responds to both suspension travel and steering inputs.

A correctly functioning bearing helps provide:

• Smooth suspension movement
• Reduced friction within the strut assembly
• Consistent steering movement
• Correct operation of associated suspension components
• Reduced unwanted noise and resistance

Why Do Shock Absorber Bearings Fail?

Suspension bearings operate under continuous load and are exposed to vibration, impacts and changing road conditions. Over time, this can cause the bearing surfaces to deteriorate.

Common causes of failure include:

• Normal age and mileage
• Water and moisture contamination
• Dirt and road debris
• Corrosion
• Repeated suspension impacts
• Deterioration of bearing lubrication
• Wear from prolonged suspension movement

Once worn, the bearing may no longer rotate smoothly and can develop play, stiffness or noise.

When Should the Bearing Be Replaced?

Replacement should be considered if:

• Knocking or clicking noises are present
• Steering movement feels rough or notchy
• Creaking or grinding is heard from the suspension
• Excessive play is found in the bearing
• The bearing is seized or difficult to rotate
• Corrosion or physical damage is visible
• Shock absorbers or upper suspension mounts are being replaced

Because access often requires dismantling part of the strut assembly, replacing worn bearings while fitting new shock absorbers or suspension mounts can help avoid duplicated labour later.

Porsche 996 / 997 / Boxster 986 / 987 / Cayman 987C Suspension Bearings

Shock absorber bearings are an important but often overlooked part of the Porsche suspension system. While shock absorbers and springs control suspension movement, bearings and mounts allow the assembly to operate smoothly without excessive friction or unwanted movement.

Age, mileage and exposure to road conditions can gradually deteriorate these components. When carrying out a suspension overhaul on a Porsche 996, 997, Boxster 986, Boxster 987 or Cayman 987C, inspecting the associated bearings, top mounts, bump stops and protective components can help identify wear before the suspension is reassembled.

Replacing worn components together can restore a tighter, quieter and more precise suspension system.