E430 Driveline Vibration

My 2000 E430 Sport replaced a similar spec '98 E430 Sport. The 2000 exhibits an annoying driveline vibration at 1900 - 2100 rpm when under slight load, like when beginning ascent of a slight grade, or on overrun, as when cresting a grade and applying slight throttle. It is most noticeable on the highway at 61 - 62 mph and at 2000 - 2100 rpm. It can be felt through the floorpan, on the accelerator pedal and steering wheel. On overrun it can be most noticeable and one can hear a slight "groan" when it happens. It only happens when very slight, gradual throttle is applied.

My '98 did not do this. My first thought is that I'm feeling the torque converter lock/unlock coupling "chatter" is it disengages. If so, somethings amiss.

Has anyone else experienced this? I'm taking it in for service on Monday and would like a few opinions before go in.

[Michael]

Try a rotation and balance...that way you can relatively eliminate wheels/tires as the culprit (and ask that they check for a bent rim) and might fix the problem.

If this cheap way out gets you nowhere, and the techs agree that it's a drivetrain thing, then you need to determine if that shop has a driveline/drivetrain alignment tool. Perhaps one of the experienced techs kind enough to participate in this board can elaborate further. Hope you get away cheap :cool !

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Best regards, Michael
'92 500E
'88 300TE

[jeffsr]

Doubt that it's the torque convertor. Something is out of balance in the drive train. Had this happen on my BIMMer and the '87 300e. On both , it was the front flex disc wearing out. But..you've got a brand new car there, so let them figure it out for you. I would not accept a brand new vehicle like a E430 with that kind of a malady. Hand them the keys and tell them to call you when they have it sorted out, period...


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Jeff L
1987 300e
1989 300e
1987 BMW 325

[This message has been edited by jeffsr (edited 06-03-2000).]

Thanks for the replies. I'm sure its not as simple as a rotate & balance. This chatter/vibration is sudden and disappears immediately after it occurs, not a harmonic, constant thing like a tire balance issue. It almost feels like a heat shield ratling, but underneath everything is as tight as can be. Frustrating!