'87 325i driveshaft U-Joint

[davidhoward]

While I was pulling the driveshaft out to replace center bearing (completely destroyed rubber on it), I noticed the front piece of shaft u-joint binds a bit. I'd like to replace it, but am at a loss as to where to get the part. I assume I will have to have it removed and installed by a machine shop since it doesn't have snap rings on it. Where can I get my hands on a replacement? Everyone seems to want to sell me an entire re-manufactured driveshaft for $$$'s. With 264,000 miles on this $850 '87 325i, I can't bring myself to spend alot of money fixing this. Besides, I already bought the center support/bearing. All I need is the damn U-Joint.

David

P.S.

Yes, I marked the driveshaft before splitting it apart.
Yes, the flex coupling and rear U-Joint appear OK.

[slideways]

just get the measurements and you should be able to get a joint. never really had much of a look at the joints but if it anything like every other harvey spicer i have evr done u need 2 measurements. the cup size and the distance from the two cup tops when in the joint.. ie how wide the whole assembly is.. get me?

[davidhoward]

So, I should just measure the dimensions of the joint and order a U-Joint that matches them. Then the machine shop should be able to remove the old joint and install a new one...

Thanks,

David

[slideways]

i work on commercials all the time and if it is too late to get one form the importers for the next day that is what we do..
try agricultural machinery supplier, they normally have good reference books. i take it u have tried bmw for the part??