26 12 001 Replacing complete propeller shaft center bearing

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.

Installation:

Make sure gaiter (1) is securely seated in groove (2).

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

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

Installation:

Apply a coating of grease to longitudinal splines on shaft.

Grease, refer to BMW Service Operating Fluids.

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

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

Fig 4: Gaiter And Groove

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

Fig 5: Special Tool (00 7 500), Centre Mount And Universal Joint

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

Fig 6: Pulling Centre Mount Off Propeller Shaft Using Hydraulic Press

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Force new center mount (1) onto propeller shaft. Collar (2) must point in direction of travel towards front propeller shaft. Drive center mount firmly home with special tool 23 1 160 .

Fig 7: Centre Mount, Collar, Installation Direction And Special Tool (23 1 160)

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