Lemforder suspension kit. How much to DIY?

[four.8is]

Just replaced rear shocks today, suspension noise coming from the other parts is insane...ever since I lowered it it has gone downhill very fast..I'm not surprised. I'm embarrassed to drive the car any longer...
I'm planning to get this kit: https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw...e53-x520piecel
And the subframe bushings to get it all done once and for all.

Anyhow, how much can I do on my own ? I have read rear ball joints and subframe bushings are a pain and better left to the ones that have the tools...but is everything else pretty simple and straightforward?
I remember TMV has done his 4.8 with a Meyle kit if I'm not mistaken, if he could chime in on this that would be great.
Thanks

[tmv]

You ring?
You can pretty much DIY all of them. I have the rear ball joint tool that you can borrow.
Haven't had the subframe bushings done yet but by the look of it, shouldn't be that hard.
Make sure to set aside plenty of time to have this done, just in case you run into issue, and have another vehicle to drive in the mean time.

[four.8is]

man you're fast lol
was it a pain to take those ball joints out? I'd like to rent it from you im just not sure what to tackle first.
ya a second vehicle is a must, you think 2 days worth of work? or more?
Appreciate the help man!

[StephenVA]

This project is not that difficult. All the bolts just need to be soaked now and turn them later is what is most required. The rear ball joints are the same set up as every E39, in fact you will find that everything looks like an E39 but just a tad larger, beefier, and thicker. Same processes for parts removal is required. There are lots of Videos out there to see the process.
Tip: Do the whole front first then move to the rear.

Using the ball joint tool makes pushing out the old and inserting the new part simple. It takes 1 hr to do the first side and 20 mins the second side. Just remember that you are pushing the entire joint into the pocket of the tool, so use the correct tool cup. If it binds, STOP and review. They push out TOWARDS the front of the vehicle and there is a C clip that needs to be removed before it will slide forward. Hit it with a punch and a small screw driver tip. WD-40 or PB Blaster etc all the way out and the new one in.

Good luck!

[four.8is]

Originally Posted by StephenVA

This project is not that difficult. All the bolts just need to be soaked now and turn them later is what is most required. The rear ball joints are the same set up as every E39, in fact you will find that everything looks like an E39 but just a tad larger, beefier, and thicker. Same processes for parts removal is required. There are lots of Videos out there to see the process.
Tip: Do the whole front first then move to the rear.

Using the ball joint tool makes pushing out the old and inserting the new part simple. It takes 1 hr to do the first side and 20 mins the second side. Just remember that you are pushing the entire joint into the pocket of the tool, so use the correct tool cup. If it binds, STOP and review. They push out TOWARDS the front of the vehicle and there is a C clip that needs to be removed before it will slide forward. Hit it with a punch and a small screw driver tip. WD-40 or PB Blaster etc all the way out and the new one in.

Good luck!

Thanks Stephen, that's encouraging.
Also thanks for the tip!

[Joshdub]

I just did everything in December, all in my garage. I have the rear ball joint tool if you want to borrow it.

Note, I installed poly bushings everywhere so I only need to press out old bushings. New ones went in by hand. The trickiest part was getting out the old rear lower control arm bushings. Those were really fused in there.

I took me about two days working slowly and cleaning as I went.

[four.8is]

Originally Posted by Joshdub

I just did everything in December, all in my garage. I have the rear ball joint tool if you want to borrow it.

Note, I installed poly bushings everywhere so I only need to press out old bushings. New ones went in by hand. The trickiest part was getting out the old rear lower control arm bushings. Those were really fused in there.

I took me about two days working slowly and cleaning as I went.

Josh I might take you up on that offer since you are local. I appreciate the help!
Once I get the suspension parts , I'll shoot you a PM and we can meet up somewhere convenient for you. Will keep in touch!

[squidzilla]

Originally Posted by Joshdub

I just did everything in December, all in my garage. I have the rear ball joint tool if you want to borrow it.

Note, I installed poly bushings everywhere so I only need to press out old bushings. New ones went in by hand. The trickiest part was getting out the old rear lower control arm bushings. Those were really fused in there.

I took me about two days working slowly and cleaning as I went.

Did you also do poly for the subframe bushings? If so, how does it ride?

I am also curious how the poly bushings in the rest of the suspension changed the overall ride quality, given how you have an MT as well. I guess I am hoping it make it more sporting.

I have the sport suspension on my 5mt and it seems to ride kind of stiff, even with 18 inch wheels.

[semcoinc]

Originally Posted by Joshdub

I just did everything in December, all in my garage. I have the rear ball joint tool if you want to borrow it.

Note, I installed poly bushings everywhere so I only need to press out old bushings. New ones went in by hand. The trickiest part was getting out the old rear lower control arm bushings. Those were really fused in there.

I took me about two days working slowly and cleaning as I went.

Hi Joshdub,

After tackling my front suspension rebuild last month, I've got all my rear suspension components ordered (including CV axles) to rebuild the rear and put a lot of distance between me and any worn out suspension components. I will PM you to see if I could borrow your ball joint tool.

I'm going with the conventional rubber subframe bushings for budget constraints so if anyone has the press tool for those that could help me please let me know or point me to a link where I can buy it.

Thanks all.

Mike

[Joshdub]

Sounds good! Depending on time I may be able to lend as hand as well if needed. Send me a PM when you're ready.