1998 328i - Can you replace the universal joints in the driveshaft?

[Aeko]

While working on the shifter linkage I noticed that the universal joint at the end of the driveshaft before the differential is completely shot. Is it possible to replace these or do I need an entirely new driveshaft? The only information I've found is that they don't seem to be replaceable. Surely I could take it to a shop to have the u joint replaced?

[dworthy]

Short answer: NO

This isn't a Jeep, and those u-joints are permanently pressed in. There are several companies out there that can rebuild your driveshaft for you, or send you a replacement for about half the cost that BMW would charge. http://www.driveshafts.com/markets/Vehicular/BMW

[MarcoZandrini]

Darin, great suggestion for a great supplier. But there’s one in San Antonio that’s just as good: Driveshaft Specialists. Chris recommended this supplier.

[ross1]

The Bavarians didn't intend for them to be replaced but it's commonly done. They are staked in place and replacing them requires a new method of retaining and centering them in the yokes. So unless you have the means to accurately center them and are able to cut a snap ring groove in the yokes or can re-stake them in place without disturbing their position(or tack welding the caps which I've seen by a so called professional shop)it is a job better left to specialists.

A rebuilt shaft from a reputable vendor would be my choice.

[bmwdirtracer]

Yup. These guys are the best:

http://www.driveshaftspecialist.com/...0html/BMW.html

[Aeko]

Awesome, I'll give Driveshaft Specialists a shot since they're just a city over. Thanks, guys!

[WadiM3]

Or you could pick one up from the wreckers for cheap but it would be wise to mark a line across the drive shaft so when you split them you know where to connect them back up from without loosing the balance.

[shadowpuck]

driveshaft specialists is the way to go - just about any you find in a junkyard will need refurbishment. witnessed this first hand when i did my transmission conversion several years back - ended up replacing the driveshaft as the one that came from the junkyard needed work.

[Aeko]

Or you could pick one up from the wreckers for cheap but it would be wise to mark a line across the drive shaft so when you split them you know where to connect them back up from without loosing the balance.

The problem is the only similar models in parts yards here are automatics. I don't know if the second half of the drive shafts are different for auto or manual.

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driveshaft specialists is the way to go - just about any you find in a junkyard will need refurbishment. witnessed this first hand when i did my transmission conversion several years back - ended up replacing the driveshaft as the one that came from the junkyard needed work.

This was my thought as well. I'd rather not pull the driveshaft twice but honestly if I can find a cheap solution that stands any chance of working I'd be willing to try it. I don't daily this car so if it doesn't work the first time it's not a huge problem.

[shadowpuck]

yup, do what you think is best.

[pbonsalb]

A creative DIYer or shop can replace the U-Joint but not many shops know how or want to. It takes a torch to get the old joint out. You don’t need to groove for the new one. You can tack weld a quarter on top of the new one. Member Butters Stoch has done a bunch.

[Cobra1956]

You actually can replace without too much difficulty but the real answer is why when you can get them, replacement shafts for a reasonable price. They are staked from BMW and can be knocked out and replaced but then you have to worry about getting it balanced correctly.