26 11 000 Removing And Installing Propeller Shaft (Cardan Universal Joint) Completely

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2013 BMW 128i, 2012 BMW 128i, 2011 BMW 128i, 2010 BMW 128i, and 2009 BMW 128i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special tools required:

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove front muffler (N45/N46/N46T/N45T/N53) only.
Remove complete exhaust system . See EXHAUST SYSTEM COMPLETE (N52K) or EXHAUST SYSTEM COMPLETE (N51)
Remove underbody protection
Remove heat shields

Release screws.

Installation:

Replace ZNS bolts and self-locking nuts.
Grip mounting bolts of flexible disk at nuts and tighten down by way of bolts.

Fig 1: Locating Mounting Bolts
Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Tighten down screws/bolts to specified torque.

Secure special tool angle of rotation 00 9 120 with magnet 00 9 130 to underbody and continue bolting according to angle of rotation. See Fig 2. Torque to specifications. See 26 11 1AZ in PROPELLER SHAFT ASSEMBLY .

Fig 2: Identifying Special Tools (00 9 120 And 00 9 130)

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: To avoid complaints of humming: Before removing propeller shaft, mark Cardan universal joint to drive flange of rear differential.
Reinstall joint in accordance with marking.

NOTE: Illustration similar

Fig 3: Aligning Mark Cardan Universal Joint To Drive Flange Of Rear Differential