{"product_id":"dorman-946-973-drive-shaft-rear","title":"Dorman 946-973 Drive Shaft - Rear","description":"\u003ch2\u003eRear Driveshaft for BMW 330Ci and 330i\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis Dorman drive shaft assembly is a direct replacement for rear driveline service on select BMW 330Ci and 330i models. Part number 946-973 arrives pre-balanced with new yokes, tubes, CV joints, and universal joints to simplify replacement and restore driveline function.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComplete drive shaft assembly for rear applications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePre-balanced for installation readiness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSteel shaft construction with a 2.5 in diameter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e52.25 in drive shaft length with 0.083 in wall thickness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIncludes CV joints and universal joints\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOverall length adjustable for fitment alignment\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e100% new yokes, tubes, and joints\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePart number 946-973\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eDetailed Description\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eDorman 946-973 is a steel rear drive shaft assembly built for 2003-2006 BMW 330Ci and BMW 330i applications. It is engineered as a complete replacement unit, reducing the need to rebuild worn driveline components individually. The assembly is pre-balanced and uses new yokes, tubes, constant velocity joints, and universal joints to support smooth power transfer through the driveline. This part cross-references BMW OE number 26117505214 and BMP-404 for the same application.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCompatible With 2004-2006 BMW 330Ci, rear and 2004-2005 BMW 330i, rear. It also fits 2003 BMW 330Ci, rear from 3\/03 and 2003 BMW 330i, rear from 3\/03. For BMW 330Ci and BMW 330i driveline repair, part 946-973 provides a direct-fit replacement path for the rear driveshaft assembly.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCommon Issues This Part Can Address\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDriveline vibration from a worn or out-of-balance shaft\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClunking or noise from worn CV joints or universal joints\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExcess play caused by deteriorated driveline components\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNeed to replace a damaged or bent rear driveshaft\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eService concerns tied to worn yokes or tube assembly wear\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch2\u003eInstallation Notes and Tips\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eVerify rear fitment by model year and production date before installation, especially for 2003 vehicles built from 3\/03. Inspect surrounding driveline components, mounting points, and seals during replacement to confirm the source of the concern. Because the assembly is adjustable in overall length, final alignment should be checked during installation to ensure proper driveline geometry.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eQuality Assurance\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eDorman supplies this drive shaft assembly as a complete replacement unit with new major driveline components and pre-balanced construction. Part number 946-973 is built for the specified BMW 330Ci and BMW 330i rear applications and is intended to replace the original shaft with a ready-to-install assembly.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Dorman","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52798269620405,"sku":"BKKY-946-973","price":1104.24,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0628\/1442\/1173\/files\/RB_946973_Fro.jpg?v=1784010234","url":"https:\/\/www.partcatalog.com\/products\/dorman-946-973-drive-shaft-rear","provider":"PartCatalog","version":"1.0","type":"link"}