Checking and replacing CV joints and their protective covers (BMW 5 Series E28)

Some automotive dealers supply replacement "split" type boot covers that can be installed without removing the drive shaft from the vehicle (they wrap easily around the hinge after cutting off the old cover). It's very convenient; however, the authors of this Manual still recommend removing the drive shaft, cleaning the CV joint from dirt and moisture, which shorten its service life, and installing a new one-piece protective cover.

If you notice signs of CV joint wear (usually caused by damage to protective covers), they should be replaced - both joints can be replaced individually.

Fully restored drive shafts can be purchased on an exchange basis, which will help save a lot of time and effort. In any case, before dismantling the car, find out the cost and availability of all parts.

Examination

The CV joints and their boots should be inspected regularly, and whenever you raise the vehicle. Jack up the vehicle and support it securely on axle stands. Inspect the CV joint boots for cracks, leaks, and broken clamp bands. If grease leaks through a hole or crack in the boot, it will cause premature wear of the CV joint and require replacement. Replace damaged boots immediately. Grasp each drive shaft in turn, rotate them in both directions, and move them in and out to check for play, indicating worn splines or loose joints.

Replacing the CV joint and its protective cover

1. Remove the driveshaft (see section Removal and installation the propeller shaft).

2. Open the clips of the protective covers, remove them and discard them.





3. Open the large clip of the protective cover...



...then the small clip, then remove and discard both.



4. Knock off the protective cover from the CV joint using a hammer and chisel.



5. Remove the large snap ring that holds the CV joint to the drive shaft using a pair of snap ring pliers.





6. Tap the end of the drive shaft gently (just not on the CV joint collars) and separate the shaft from the joint.

7. Remove the old protective cover from the drive shaft.

8. Thoroughly wash the CV joint in solvent. Rinse off all the old grease and blow out the solvent with compressed air if possible.

Wear safety glasses when using compressed air.

9. Inspect the CV joint for deep scratches, grooves, cavities and other signs of wear. If the CV joint is damaged, replace it.



10. Wrap the splines on the end of the drive shaft with tape to protect the new boots from damage when installing them.

11. Install new covers, then remove the tape.



12. Carefully tap the CV joint onto the drive shaft - use a soft-faced hammer to avoid damaging the collar. Install the retaining ring.





13. Fill the cavity in the rear part of the joint with special grease...



...and push the grease into the joint.



14. Install the protective boot into the groove on the drive shaft and place the small clamp and tighten it with a special tool for tightening the strips (available at any auto parts store).



15. Bend the end of the clamp back and cut off the excess.



16. Fill the rest of the joint with special grease (see illustrations above). Push it into the hinge and then install the protective cover.

17. Install the large clamp and tighten it (see illustrations above).

18. Install the drive shaft (see section Removal and installation drive shafts).