End play in my LSD output shaft?!

Post Wed Aug 01, 2012 11:09 pm

As part of my rear-end rebuild I've taken the LSD off the axle carrier and noticed that I have approx 3-4mm (in total) of axial end-play (in and out) of the near-side output shaft (of the LSD). The car is a '89 325i M Sport. I can feel NO other movement of the shaft in either vertical or horizontal planes. I'd say that this is either normal, or at least within some acceptable tollerance, but I don't know what I'm talking about!! Should I be concerned? By the way, the off-side output shaft has no end-play. Thoughts anyone??

Post Wed Aug 01, 2012 11:15 pm

they OS's are only held in with a wire retaining collar, and they float.. Give it a good tug and it will pop out alltogether

Post Wed Aug 01, 2012 11:25 pm

Thanks, I'll give it a go. Do you also recommend any other checks while it's out. It seems fine and the oil was replaced 3 years ago with very little mileage since, but I'd kick myself if I'd not done some 'known' routine checks before putting her back on the axle and connecting up.

Post Thu Aug 02, 2012 12:00 am

Usually the tell tale signs of wear are audible, but in terms of gears there's info on the net you can identify witnessing on the planes, where the CWP and pinion mesh. Otherwise without disassmbly it's a case of testing it, but generally if they haven't been abused the input bearings and clutch packs have a finite lifespan. Are you UK based?

I think the main check is the oil colour, as they're friction based the cleaner the better..

Post Fri Aug 03, 2012 12:57 am

Barx.... Your response(s) welcome. I will check the oil ... it's a good tell-tale. The old girl's been SORN so long I can't remember any rear-end audio, so road-test might be my only option. Removal is such a pain, but perhaps Snap-On do 'easy LSD installation/removal' connections! Some hope. I'm content to check the net for help. Yes, I'm UK based, nr Alton/Farnham, Hants.

Post Fri Aug 03, 2012 8:30 am

I would use the opportunity to remove the alloy back plate, drain it out and have a good wipe around inside to remove any muck, then get the cover/case cleaned up and refit the cover with gasket sealer as the paper gaskets are shite, especially if you refill with a synthetic oil, would be a good idea to change the output seals too while your on