Help switching out the e46 Driveshaft

[alexlboy]

I just bought a '99 323i and whenever I change gears, as i pull off the clutch, there is this "kadunk" sound in the rear, i think the car needs a new driveshaft. Does anybody have any DIY for changing the driveshaft?

[SkyDog]

Are you sure it's the driveshaft? There are a few other possibilities. A bad differential bushing is a common cause for clunking. If you're really unlucky, it could be a (dreaded) torn subframe.

(Posting this in the E46 forum might get some more responses.)

[Garyn]

We have the same problem with our E46 323i 1998. We've had a new gearbox, clutch and rubber Guibo? coupling http://thumbs2.ebaystatic.com/pict/3701171534598080_1.jpg fitted and it all made no difference whatsoever. We've had 2 gearbox specialists thoroughly examined the diff and they both found the rear left drive shaft splines to be worn and a ring? gear in the rear diff to be slightly worn. Their prognosis was that it will get worse over time, but is no real problem. We've found it irritating for 3 years, but it hasn't got worse. If it irritates you to death; you may need to spend $3-4000 on a new diff and shafts.
Hope this helps.

[Noamsky]

Are you sure it's the driveshaft? There are a few other possibilities. A bad differential bushing is a common cause for clunking. If you're really unlucky, it could be a (dreaded) torn subframe.

(Posting this in the E46 forum might get some more responses.)

+1

Before throwing a wad of cash at it (i.e. new driveshaft/output shafts or differential) I'd replace the rear diff bushing, if not all three, and take a look at your rear subfame mount points for damage. Of course if it is your subframe mounts, then you'll wish it was your driveshaft:thumbdwn: Replacing my diff bushing did it for me:thumbup: