26 12 001 Replacing complete propeller shaft center bearing

Special tools required: 

• 00 7 500 
• 33 1 020 
• 23 2 430 

Necessary preliminary tasks: 

• Remove the PROPELLER SHAFT .

Removal: 

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.

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Pull apart propeller shaft.

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

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Install special tool 00 7 500  between center mount (1) and universal joint (2).

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Using a hydraulic press, force center mount (1) off propeller shaft (2).

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Install special tool 00 7 500  between deep groove ball bearing (1) and propeller shaft (2).

Using a hydraulic press, force deep groove ball bearing (1) off propeller shaft (2).

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Installation: 

Parts:  Replace grooved ball bearing.

Use special tool 23 2 430  to press new deep groove ball bearing (1) on to propeller shaft (2).

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Parts:  Replace center mount.

Push new center mount (1) onto the grooved ball bearing and press on with special tool 23 2 430  .

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Apply a coating of grease to longitudinal splines on shaft.

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

Grease, refer to BMW Service Operating Fluids. Refer to: PROPELLER SHAFT - OPERATING FLUIDS

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

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Observe markings and force front propeller shaft (3) onto longitudinal splines of rear propeller shaft (4) (markings must be flush).

Slide gaiter (1) onto groove (2).

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Required follow-up work: 

• Install the PROPELLER SHAFT .