Quote:
Originally Posted by c4racer
You only need to remove one ball joint. I did not hurt the boot one bit, and I used a pickle fork - although it doesn't take much force to get it off unlike some. And you are right that you will have to re-assemble to get that nut off, that sucker is on there big time. I have been able to remove them on FWD japanese cars by using a long rod against the wheel studs, but BMW doesn't use studs, so can't even try to do that. Plus it really takes a crapload of force to break those 36mm spindle nuts. I have also done this on a 3/4ton 4x4 suburban and I would say the nut was about the same on both. But the X5 axle is way way harder to get out than the chevy one was. Much tighter fit.
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So I started working on the X today...that axle is definately a bear to get loose. I'm taking a break from abusing my truck to eat, but it's definately in there good. So far I've broken loose the rear lower control arm and steering rod at the balljoint by just leaving the nut on the top and using my framing hammer to knock them loose from their holes, but I have not removed them completely. I used my Dremel and gave my pickle fork nicer rounded edges then greased it up nicely before I slide it over the balljoint bushing, but once slide on there, it was already loose enough to remove.
I tried renting a hub puller from Autozone, but the holes we're like 1/4" off from lining up. I also tried the stealership to see about borrowing there tool, but it was a no go. He also that that using the puller and/or hammer method that we're doing is going to ruin the bearing...basically trying to scare me. I've been trying to beat it out the axle from the hub using a 3/4" 28mm socket (to stay on the top of the meat of the nut instead of the 12 points) placed over the axle nut w/ a 4" extension so I don't have to stand so close. It doesn't seem to have budged yet, but maybe after lunch it'll wanna give up and let me win.
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650hp 10 X5///M - Stage 2, Vibrant 1794's , gutted cats, custom intake, AC Forged 22's 325hp 98 BMW 740iL - ///M5 6spd, www.bavengine.com w/ Performance Option, electric fan, CF intake tube w/ heatshield, Mag 14816 w/ notched bumper, Bilstein/H&R Stage II/Powerflex 600+hp 02 Harley F150 - MHP900 Stage 3 engine, KB2.3, 8# lower, 60# inj, Walbro FP's
135hp 01 TL1000R - M4 full exhaust, K&N, Yosh box, -1/+2 gears, 2CT's
Last edited by m5james; 03-25-2010 at 05:16 PM.
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