Driveline vibration

[Jim R]

I have an 85 535i with 200K miles. It recently developed a driveline vibration that is most apparent during acceleration from a stop. My mechanic says its a bad (original) driveshaft and will cost $500 to replace. Any comments, and does anyone know of an aftermarket supplier in Southern Cal?

Thanks,
Jim

[Mike]

Normal Installed with labor is $780.00 for factory shaft.You go ahead and put a rebuild in it.Your mechanic will hate you because he will have to swap it out every 6 months.They use junk us joints.

[RIZZY]

<br>Rizzy
1972 2002
1993 325iS
Tulsa

[m5freddie]

Had a similiar problem with a friends 87 535is, with about 200K. Problem was front motor mounts. Vibration occured during acceleration in first and second gear.

[jrusher1]

Thanks for you help everyone.
Jim

[Russ]

You have several options on replacing a worn-out driveshaft on a BMW.

1. Driveline Service of Portland OR. This place has a good design and reputation. Their price was about 410$ for my 528e. Howver, they use their own proprietary-designed u joints. That means you will have to reorder from them instead going to a local auto bearing supplier. On the other hand, they do have grease fittings that allow you to lube the u joints. Also, their driveshafts come with a 5 yr? warranty. Not bad, if you got the money. Their web site is www.driveshafts.com/bmw/index.html

2. You can open yer veins and go to the helpful BMW Dealer aka: The Don. After all, their offices need new carpet, too...

3. You can rebuild the durn thing yourself. To do this, you need to be a machinist or have access to one. I chose a standard U Joint from Neapco. They have an excellent catalog that gives a LOT of info on u joints used in most cars at www.neapco.com/aftermarket_catalogs.php

I can now rebuild my driveshaft for 22$ total, and I can lube the u joints, as well.