26 11 020 Replacing center mount gaiter

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 21 other vehicles, including the 2017 BMW 550i GT xDrive, 2017 BMW 535i GT xDrive, 2017 BMW 535i GT, 2016 BMW 550i GT xDrive, and 2016 BMW 535i GT xDrive. 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: Detaching Gaiter From Groove

G04748988

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Pull apart propeller shaft.

Fig 2: Pulling Apart Propeller Shaft

G04748989

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note:

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

Fig 3: Inserting Clamping Ring Into Front Propeller Shaft

G04748990

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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 OPERATING FLUIDS .

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.

Fig 4: Pushing Gaiter During Installation Into Groove

G04748991

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.