Strange or normal rear wheel behaviour?

[The Guinnster]

Hi folks and continuing thanks for a great forum, from a little corner of Middlesbrough. A quick question that hopefully someone can shine a light on. Its a bit odd so I hope my description is understandable. I have a 1985 350i, early model before "A frame" suspension. Had the rear of the car on axle stands, out of gear with both rear wheels suspended and hand break off. ( Front wheels chocked!!! ) When I rotated the rear wheel , it turned freely through almost 360 degrees but then tightened up. As i slowly turned the wheel through the resistance, I could see the drive shaft lifting maybe 3/4 inch and then lowering as the wheel freed up and turned easily again. Checked the other back wheel and it does exactly the same. Is this a problem or possibly something to do with the angle of the drive shafts with the wheel hanging down. Does anybody else's car do the same. I'm reluctant to drive it in case I'm damaged something. No obvious other symptoms. Thanks for any help in advance.

[GreenV8S]

Sounds rather like one of the UJs is either binding or running out of travel. I'd be inclined to do the same test but with the weight on the suspension (i.e. pick the wheel off the ground by jacking under the outer end of the suspension) and see whether you still get that at the normal ride height.

[The Guinnster]

Thanks a lot for the reply. I will try that tomorrow.

[adam quantrill]

Yes - you must do this check with the suspension taking the weight of the car. And be careful!

[The Guinnster]

Thanks again for the advice. I'm not a big fan of getting under cars even with lots of supports. Turns my stomach seeing people laid under cars supported only by basic wheel changing jack. Will check this out tomorow.

[The Guinnster]

Hi and just a quick note to say thanks again. I put the car on axle stands then jacked under the suspension until the rear wheels were at normal height. They then spun freely without resistance. Problem solved. Right, whats next ???

[grahamw48]

Go out and drive it !