center bearing

[jcwade]

I have an '86 528e and there is a thumping noise and vibration
under the hump in the rear passenger compartment. This noise
occurs mostly when I am taking off from a standing start and
deminishes or disappears at speed.

From reading the posts here, I suspect that it is the center bearing.

My question is, is this something that an amateur can do in his
garage with jackstands or should I take it to my local mechanic?

Thanks for any opinions.

john

[Bob540iA]

It could also be the Guibo. This is the more likely problem.
I would replace them both if they are of unknown age.
If you have a Bentley manual it details this fix pretty well.
This is a DIY project that takes a little time because you will have to remove the exhaust system to get to the driveshaft.
You also want to make sure you preload the center bearing as specified in the Bentley manual.
Here is a good link if you don't have the Bentley.
It is written for the e34 but it pertains to the e28 also.

Center bearing and Guibo Replacement