E39 530d - Clonk when changing gear

[emicen]

My fathers car has developed this fault. It clonks when you change gear both in reverse and when changing up the gears going forwards.

From outside it sounds like a heavy mechanical clank. Any ideas?

[stockhatcher]

have you tried using the clutch

although it could be engine mounts broken

[Darth Dave]

There's a coupling for the prop shaft that can get a bit of wear. The clonk will sound from the back of the car rather than the front.