Symptom
Probable cause
Corrective action
Universal joints worn
or seized.
Check universal joint play and movement.
Replace driveshaft if necessary.
Sliding coupling
seized.
Remove driveshaft and check movement of
sliding coupling. Clean coupling splines and
replace parts as necessary.
Driveshaft
misaligned.
Check driveshaft alignment.
Noise during on/off
throttle or when
engaging clutch.
Final drive
components worn or
damaged (excessive
pinion-to-ring-gear
clearance).
Remove final drive and repair.
Drive axle or CV joint
faulty.
Inspect drive axles and CV joints. Repair or
replace as necessary.
Sliding coupling
seized.
Remove driveshaft and check movement of
sliding coupling. Clean coupling splines and
replace parts as necessary.
Vibration at 25 to
30 mph (40 to 50
km/h).
Front centering guide
worn, or driveshaft
mounting flanges out
of round or
damaged.
Check front centering guide and replace if
necessary. Check runout of driveshaft mounting
flanges.
Universal joints worn
or seized.
Check universal joint play and movement.
Replace driveshaft if necessary.
Flex-disc damaged
or worn.
Inspect flex-disc. Replace if necessary.
Center bearing
rubber deteriorated.
Inspect center bearing. Replace if necessary.
Sliding coupling
seized.
Remove driveshaft and check movement of
sliding coupling. Clean coupling splines and
replace parts as necessary.
Misaligned installed
position.
Check driveshaft alignment.
Vibration, audible
rumble over 35
mph (60 km/h).
Front centering guide
worn, or driveshaft
mounting flanges out
of round or
damaged.
Check front centering guide and replace if
necessary. Check runout of driveshaft mounting
flanges.
Driveshafts
http://ebahn.bentleypublishers.com/BMW/3/E46/Repair%20Manuals/2...
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2/25/2009 10:20 PM