Genuine 2011 BMW 335i Drive Shaft

2011 BMW 335i Drive Shaft Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to safely remove a rear drive shaft on a 2011 BMW 335i?

  A: Raise the vehicle and support it safely using a professional automotive lift or jack stands designed for the purpose, as a floor jack is not adequate support. Remove the exhaust system and exhaust heat shields, marking the mounting flanges and driveshaft sections with paint to preserve the original orientation. While working at the driveshaft front flex-disc, counter hold the bolt heads and remove the nuts at the transmission or transfer case output flange, discarding the old fasteners. To avoid damaging the flex-disc rubber, hold the bolts stationary while loosening the nuts. Hang the driveshaft front section from the body using stiff wire. Next, at the driveshaft rear universal joint, remove the mounting nuts at the differential input flange and discard them; if necessary, use a pry bar at the groove to pry the universal joint free. Hang the driveshaft rear section from the body using stiff wire, then remove the driveshaft center support bearing mounting nuts. Finally, pull down on the center of the driveshaft to facilitate its removal.