Thanks rcasey, exactly the answer and advice I was looking for! I have a pretty good 30mm 12 point socket and I am all too familiar with the socket slipping .... have the stitches in the hand to prove it!

My additional challenge is that the ball joint "stud" will have to be held steady. This is done by holding it in place with an Allen wrench, and then use an "open", 12 point socket ... (BMW "special" tool).

Any idea where to get that type of a tool?

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PAX5
BMW CCA #20645