26 11 020 Replacing center mount gaiter

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 11 other vehicles, including the 2013 BMW 328i, 2012 BMW 328i, 2011 BMW 328i, 2010 BMW 335i, and 2010 BMW 328i. 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: Gaiter, Groove, Front Propeller Shaft And Rear Propeller Shaft

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Pull propeller shaft apart.

Fig 2: Pulling Propeller Shaft Apart

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Installation:

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

Fig 3: Clamping Ring And Front Propeller Shaft

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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

Installation:

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

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

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

Fig 4: Gaiter And Groove

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.