Drive Shaft replacement

[SilverFive]

90 525i (E34/M20)

Anyone ever had to replace the drive shaft, is it over-the-top expensive? I'm wondering if there are other components that are going to be necessary if it turns out the support or entire unit is blown. If you have knowledge, please inform.

I want to avoid dealing with the dealer if at all possible.

 

[mjbst111]

if any of the ujoints are bad you are looking at about 300 for a remanufactured unit.

if you get one i'd suggest replacing the guibo (flex disc) with it and you are supposed to get new stretch nuts for the differential bolts.

the remaned drive shaft will have a new center support on it.

btw (all this info was based on my old e30 - i assume it will be a similar situation)

 

[SilverFive]

Thanks,

Did the e30 hold up pretty well after replacement? I have one of those also, but I usually end up replacing suspension items for it.

Anywhoo, the mechanic seems to think its' only the support (center bearing) but I will know for sure later. Did you order the part (reman) or was it readily available somewhere?

 

[mjbst111]

i got it at a driveshaft shop here in pittsburgh. one year warrenty. That way no shipping. I don't think they had to order it but i don't remember.

I thought it was my center support too so i replaced it then my new center support blew out cause it was a ujoint causing the problems. It held out great after that. I drove it very rough.

 

[epj3]

shipping wouldnt be too bad anyways, each piece is fairly short and only weighs about 20-30 lbs.

 

[Big Daddy]

Or it could be similar to the prices of the one I replaced on my 91 750iL, about $1,000.00 installed! That one is rather long and has lots of u-joints, etc. so you should be quite less, more like what Eric is talking about.

 

[SilverFive]

What's my best site? Bavauto or does someone else know a good place.

 

[Big Daddy]

Are you a member of BMW CCA? There is an ad in the Roundel where they sell remanufactured driveshafts. I will try and find it and post it for you.

 

[SilverFive]

Thanks

 

[Big Daddy]

Found the ad in the Roundel. I have never used these people but here is their contact information. www.driveshafts.com/bmw 800-227-8608. The ad is on page 144 of the January 06 Roundel. It states, "In stock overnight delivery, best warranty in the industry, 5-year/50,000 mile Plus Labor rebate" Best of luck!