Boxerworks.com

Does anybody know where to get replacement U-Joints for a 70's airhead driveshaft?

And...then advice on how to remove and weld a new one on?

I have since lost my resource on the replacement U-joints and want to source this kind of work myself vs waiting for my local mechanic for two-three months. He is beyond slow with his turn arounds.

http://beemersandbits.com/2012/07/new-u ... riveshaft/

And... is there any way to remove the driveshaft from the swingarm without spending $80 on the Cycleworks tool?

Thanks.

-Josh

Not too sure with a 70's shaft but it will be similar at the uni end to my 81.

Make a tool.

Get the uni out and measure the necessaries.

Source one from Hardy Spicer or other similar manufacturer.
I used washers over the top of the caps to retain. Two or three smallish tacks with the mig, and all is well after 15 years of punishment.

I have removed many drive shafts from the swing arm. I haven't tried the Cycleworks tool, so can't comment. The Matra tool is barely up to the job. That bell can really be stuck on the taper. When it comes off, it sounds like a 30-06 rifle shot. I never got used to the violence of that one.

If it's an early style driveshaft and you're pressing off the bell, leave the nut on the shaft, loosened a couple turns. When the shaft lets go, it not only makes a noise but can get launched a considerable distance

I have had trouble finding the U-joint itself. If anyone has a part number & source, I would certainly appreciate it. I have a bad driveshaft looking for a replacement U-joint, but I could never find a U-joint which would fit. I even enlisted the help of my local, fantastic bearing supplier, but she was unable to find one, too.

blitz wrote:I have had trouble finding the U-joint itself.

I found a perfect match from Hardy Spicer. Aussie made I think.
I wonder if I wrote the part number in my manual...I'll have a look when the sun comes up.
Sounds like my home made press won't work on the earlier shafts. Mine is spring loaded with a circlip, or whatever that wire clip is called.

blitz wrote:I have had trouble finding the U-joint itself.

I was once told that there was a Yamaha or other motorcycle brand replacement that fits the BMW but it was a few years ago and of course I didn't write it down.

I have since found this:
http://www.brunos.us/driveshafts.html

and I hear Ted Porter's shop will do the service.