26 11 020 Replacing centre mount gaiter

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 BMW 550i GT, 2012 BMW 550i GT, 2011 BMW 550i GT, and 2010 BMW 550i GT. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks

Remove PROPELLER SHAFT .

NOTE: The propeller shaft is balanced.
The front and rear propeller shafts must be reassembled in the same position.
Detach gaiter (1) from groove (2).

Mark front propeller shaft (3) and rear propeller shaft (4) in one plane.

Fig 1: Locating Front And Rear Propeller Shaft Marks

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Pull apart propeller shaft.

Fig 2: Pulling Propeller Shaft Apart

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Installation note:

If necessary, insert new clamping ring (1) into front propeller shaft (2).

Fig 3: Identifying Front Propeller Shaft With Clamping Ring

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Release gaiter (1) with screwdriver from groove (2) and pull off over longitudinal splines.

Installation note:

Apply an even coating of grease to longitudinal splines on shaft.

Grease, refer to BMW Service Operating Fluids. See DRIVESHAFT -- OPERATING FLUIDS .

Fig 4: Identifying Gaiter And Groove

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Observe markings and force front propeller shaft onto longitudinal splines (markings must be flush).

Push gaiter (1) during installation into groove (2) and make sure it is firmly fitted.