325e driveshaft vibration damper (archive)

What is the job of the round thingie on the driveshaft flex disc? Is it really necessary? The 2002 doesn't have it and it works just fine. The problem is with this thing in place you are forced to tighten the nuts directly on the flex disc, which turn the metal sleeves in the flex disc and destroys it. It looks like the output flange must be removed to get it out. Is there anything wrong with throwing it away and using regular bolts (as opposed to the studs which seem to be molded into the vibration damper) to bolt the flex disc to the output flange. The Bentley manual (Page 11-11) shows a picture and says to turn the damper 60 degrees in either direction to get it out, with the flange still in place. Is this really true?

I am also replacing the clutch. I have everything out except the top starter bolt. Only the tips of my fingers can barely touch the nut on the engine side. So far I've spent 3 hours on this bolt. If I'm able do this, I'll consider it a real achievement.

Any input will be much appreciated.

Thanks

Harry M
Glendale CA
325e (86)
2002 (74)

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