E36 driveshaft help

[dirtdiggler]

On a 96 and up 328i is the rear part of the driveshaft the same manual to auto? and just the front half different?

what im asking is could I use a auto rear and manual front and have a driveshaft that would work in a manual car?

[lbennyboobool]

the fronts are different, but I believe the rears are all the same. I have heard but have never verified that each section is balanced individually, so in theory you could mix and match as you have stated.

[Auto Parts Guy]

Of all the e36 driveshafts I've dealt with, the rears have all been the same. Just pay attention to the diff bolt pattern.
And on the front, dont forget there are 2 bolt patterns there as well (small & large).

[dirtdiggler]

Of all the e36 driveshafts I've dealt with, the rears have all been the same. Just pay attention to the diff bolt pattern.
And on the front, dont forget there are 2 bolt patterns there as well (small & large).

Ok I will keep that in mind, and I wonder if they are really balanced? I guess I can have it balanced at a driveshaft shop.

[pbonsalb]

There is usually a white dot on each half at the joint. Line up the dots. If mixing and matching, line up the dots if they are still visible. If they are not present then get it balanced. Beware most 20+ year old rear joints are worn out and most shops won’t replace them because they are staked and not easily removeable.

[ross1]

It's my understanding that the marks are to keep the joints in phase, not for balancing.
Out of phase U joints will cause a vibration which could be misdiagnosed as out of balance.
I have a complete manual driveshaft if you are looking for one.