26 11 000 Removing And Installing Complete Propeller Shaft (Constant-Velocity Joint)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 10 other vehicles, including the 2010 BMW 535xi, 2010 BMW 528xi, 2009 BMW 535xi, 2009 BMW 528xi, and 2008 BMW 535xi. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Necessary preliminary tasks:

Remove rear underbody protection.
Remove complete EXHAUST SYSTEM .

Remove heat shields (1) and (2).

Fig 1: Identifying Heat Shields

NOTE: Graphic similar.

NOTE: N43, N46T only Remove transmission bearing block. Tightening torque 23 71 4AZ

Fig 2: Identifying Transmission Support Block Bolts

IMPORTANT: To avoid buzzing sound after refitting the propeller shaft:

The flexible disc connection (1) on the front at the propeller shaft must be marked in one plane with the flexible disc (2) and the three-bolt flange (3) before removal.
During installation the three-bolt flange (3) must be forced back together again with the flexible disc (2) in the same position.
Replace ZNS bolts and self-locking nuts.

Fig 3: Refitting Propeller Shaft

Release screws.

Installation note: ZNS bolts and nuts must be replaced. Replace self-locking nuts.

Fig 4: Identifying ZNS Bolts

Important! M57 only: The bolt without washer may only be tightened by means of the nut. The bolt with rolled-on washer which has ribbed teeth facing the support side must be tightened by means of the bolt. Observe different tightening torques. Tightening torque, 26 11 1AZ.

Release bolts and replace.

Fig 5: Locating Flange Bolts

Using a screwdriver, press constant velocity joint off drive flange at dismantling grooves.

Fig 6: Pressing Constant Velocity Joint Off Drive Flange

Important! Do not let propeller shaft fall into joints. Joints and rubber cup can be damaged on constant velocity joint.

Fig 7: Sectional View Of Constant Velocity Joint

Grip propeller shaft at center mount and release screws. Tightening torque, 26 11 6AZ

Fig 8: Locating Propeller Shaft At Centre Bearing Screws

Bend propeller shaft downwards at center bearing. Remove propeller shaft from transmission output flange and detach constant velocity joint from rear axle final drive.

Fig 9: Identifying Bend Propeller Shaft At Centre Bearing

Installation note: Withdraw constant velocity joint (1) up to limit position. Fit shims. Attach propeller shaft with pulled-apart constant velocity joint to drive flange of rear axle final drive.

Alternately tighten 2 opposing screws to draw constant-velocity joint evenly into the input flange. Replace ZNS bolts. Tightening torque, 26 11 4AZ.

Fig 10: Identifying Constant-Velocity Joint