Cardan shaft intermediate support bearing — inspection and replacement (BMW 3 Series E46)

Examination

1. Wear of the intermediate support bearing leads to noise and vibration when the vehicle is moving. Each time the cardan shaft is removed (see paragraph 6) it is recommended to inspect the bearing. To provide access to the bearing without removing the driveshaft, it is necessary to remove the exhaust system and heat shields (see chapter 4A).

2. Inspect the bearing and make sure it rotates smoothly and has no play. If the bearing rotates stiffly or has play, replace it. Also inspect the rubber part of the support. If the support is damaged, replace it.

Replacement

3. Remove the driveshaft (see paragraph 6).

4. Mark the relative positions of the front and rear parts of the cardan shaft, then unscrew the support bushing nut and separate the two halves of the shaft. Remove the nut, washer and bushing, remembering their positions.

5. Remove the retaining ring and remove the rear bearing boot from the intermediate support.

6. Using a suitable puller, remove the bearing from the driveshaft, then remove the front bearing boot.

7. Securely fasten the intermediate support bracket and press the bearing out of it.

8. Install the new bearing and press it into the bracket. Keep in mind that force should be applied only to the outer ring of the bearing.

9. Clean the driveshaft splines thoroughly and carefully install the front bearing boot onto the driveshaft. Make sure the boot is installed correctly.

10. Press the bearing onto the driveshaft. Keep in mind that force should only be applied to the inner ring of the bearing.



11. Make sure the bearing rotates smoothly, then install the new rear bearing boot onto the driveshaft.

12. Apply a small amount of grease containing molybdenum disulfide (bMW recommends Molykote Longterm 2 grease) onto the splines, screw on the nut, put the washer and sleeve on the front of the cardan shaft.

13. Align the marks made before disconnecting the driveshaft, then connect both halves of the driveshaft.

14. Install the driveshaft (see paragraph 6).