The flex disc (aka the guibo) connects the driveshaft to the transmission and provides a buffer to absorb driveline vibrations. The rubber flex disc takes the torque coming out of the transmission and delivers a seamless transition to the driveshaft. But over time the rubber is subjected to constant loading/unloading and it will break down. The rubber is designed to be the weakest link so that the rest of the driveline lasts longer.
Symptoms of a failed guibo will be a dull thunk when dipping in/out of the throttle and during shifts. You may also notice cracks in the rubber around the bolt holes. A great time to replace the guibo, and driveshaft center support bearing, is during a clutch overhaul, short shift kit install, or any time the driveshaft is removed from the car.
We also recommend replacing the 6 self-locking nuts at the same time.
Install note: the flex disc is directional. During install, look for an arrow on the outer rim. The arrow should point towards the flange and indicates the direction the bolt should go. Installing it backwards will cause premature failure of the flex disc.
BMW Fitments:
3 Series
E36 (92-99) > M3 (1995)
E36 (92-99) > M3 (96-99)
3 Series
E46 (99-05) > M3
5 Series
E34 (89-95) > M5 (91-95)
Z Series
E36/7 / E36/8 Z3 (96-02) > Z3 M - S52
E36/7 / E36/8 Z3 (96-02) > Z3 M - S54
Z Series
E85 / E86 Z4 (03-08) > Z4 M