BMW E28 driveshaft and rear end noises
What causes growling and vibration from the E28 driveshaft or rear end?
The causes can be a worn flex joint (rag joint), a torn centre bearing or centre support, the rear wheel bearings, or a loose heat shield rubbing against the driveshaft. The front hub bearings can sound similar.
What causes clunking or knocking in the E28 when lifting off the clutch?
First replace the rear end support rubber and the mount rubber. Check for play by shaking the rear end and the joints under the car. The rear end mounting bracket under the rear seat can also be torn.
Is whining from the E28 rear end when reversing normal?
The final drive gear teeth wear on one edge, so a noise when reversing is often normal. If it is too loud, change the rear end oil. Whining from a limited-slip differential can be fixed by replacing the bearings and the locking unit.
How do I install the driveshaft centre bearing and bolts?
Mark the driveshaft parts before removal, because a driveshaft refitted the wrong way round ruins the balance. The centre bearing is pushed forward 2-4 mm and the centre nut torque is about 20 Nm. The drive shaft bolt torque is 95 Nm with locking tabs and 83 Nm without.