2611020 Replacing center mount gaiter

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2011 BMW 328i, 2011 BMW 323i, 2010 BMW 335i, 2010 BMW 328i, and 2010 BMW 323i. 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: Marking Front Propeller Shaft And Rear Propeller Shaft In One Plane

G04748988

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Pull propeller shaft apart.

Fig 2: Pulling Propeller Shaft Apart

G04748989

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

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

Fig 3: Identifying Front Propeller Shaft With Clamping Ring

G04748990

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.

See PROPELLER SHAFT - OPERATING FLUIDS .

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

Fig 4: Identifying Gaiter And Groove

G04748991

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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