Auto-Forums.net

[Steve W]

1987 520i E28. I've got an intermittent kind of "grating" noise from
gearbox/propshaft area which seems to kick in after a few minutes driving.
It is most noticeable at speeds between 15-30mph, and seems to get less
obvious at higher speeds, although maybe it's just being masked by the
higher background noise. It feels like it's a dry or damaged bearing, and I
can feel it transmitted through the gear stick handle.

I am wondering it is is one of:
- Gearbox rear bearing
- Flexible coupling between g'box and Prop shaft
- Front U-Joint bearings
- Centre prop shaft bearing

None of these looks particularly attractive to tackle, especially since I
would be working from underneath with the car up on axle stands., and I
would prefer not to drop the exhaust. Can anyone suggest a way of homing in
on the problem?
Thanks
Steve