Driveshaft removal on a 280i

[benebob]

Seems my u joint wasn't on the 1/2 shaft but rather the driveshaft. Any tricks for getting it out aside from getting it up high enough to remove it?

[adam quantrill]

Is it the one next to the wheel, or the diff?

If the wheel I usually do these in situ, saves a shedload of dismantling/remantling.

See here:

http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a...

Edited by adam quantrill on Thursday 1st July 21:57

[benebob]

Sorry, its the tranny to dif shaft. Thought it was a side but apparently it is just fine.

[adam quantrill]

OK what you need is some chalk! Or white paint will do.

You can undo the bolts on both ends of the propshaft quite easily. Leave the bolts in place if possible and put the nuts back on so you don't lose any (they are fine thread and hard to get).

With the propshat unbolted, it comes out of the transmission tunnel towards the rear through one of the gaps between the tubes - and only one gap. When it's half way out this is where you mark the hole with the chalk BECAUSE YOU WILL FORGET WHICH ONE and when it comes to put it back it's almost impossible to work it out.

I spend half an hour taking mine out and a good hour trying different gaps when I put it back - all the time my arms getting more tired!

[benebob]

Cool thanks, I figured it would come out without removing anything else but just wanted to be sure. Will give the info to my garage. Hopefully, they'll only want a case of beer tip for their troubles.