Genuine 2016 BMW 428i Drive Shaft

2016 BMW 428i Drive Shaft Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q:

  How should the Drive Shaft, centering sleeve, and insert nut be inspected, prepared, and installed N20 and N26 engines on 2016 BMW 428i?

  Posted by Feras M.

  A:

  Prior to installation, inspect the centering dowel on the transmission/transfer case output flange and the centering sleeve inside the driveshaft flex-disc, and replace damaged components (front centering sleeve per repair group instructions). When installing the centering sleeve over the dowel, apply a thin coat of molybdenum disulfide grease (Molykote Longterm 2 Plus or equivalent). Clean the insert collar and splined teeth on the pinion and fill the collar with a thin coat of the same grease; clean the external threads and internal splined hub teeth on the driveshaft flange and coat the splines with the same grease. Using new parts, place the insert nut with seal in the collar of the flange nut and install the retaining cover. Caution: Attach the driveshaft to the transmission/transfer case, to the rear differential, and install the center mount in that order; tighten nuts in the following order: insert nut to driveshaft, flex-disc to transmission/transfer case, then center mount to chassis. Align matchmarks and attach the front flex-disc to the transmission/transfer case output flange using new fasteners, holding the bolts stationary while tightening nuts to avoid damaging the flex-disc rubber. Bend the driveshaft slightly at the center universal joint to aid installation to the rear differential, slide the driveshaft fully onto the insert nut and secure finger tight, brace the driveshaft at the center universal joint with a pry bar and tighten the insert nut to final torque within five minutes; do not use the differential flange nut to counterhold the driveshaft as the rear differential may be damaged. Reinstall the center bearing support, install heat shields and the exhaust system, then road test the vehicle to check for noise or vibration.

  Answered by BMW Parts Specialist Adrian / May 18, 2025