Universal Joints
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 22 other vehicles, including the 2001 BMW 540i, 2001 BMW 530i, 2001 BMW 525i, 2001 BMW 330xi, and 2001 BMW 330i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Universal joints are used on front and rear sections to compensate for differences in installed angle of drive shaft as it rotates. Needle roller bearings are used in universal joints. Needles are held in place on the trunnions by round bearing cups. Bearing cups are held in the yokes either by snap rings or injected plastic retainers, (depending on manufacturer).