Front end Suspension clanks... Ebay solution?

[The Salt]

Hi All,

I have been updating my X5 lately with all new parts that wear out... general wear and tear type of stuff and had a quick question.
My front suspension seems to be pretty worn out (a lot of clunking) I took the X5 to a local BMW place to sort out the parts an labor, but that is looking to be too spendy for me. The solution? I bought a 10 peice kit off Ebay that hopefully will work ok. This is the kit.
Anyone here install one of these? Any tips?

BMW X5 X-5 Control Arm Suspension Kit 01 02 03 04 05 : eBay Motors (item 350281872304 end time Apr-19-10 10:22:42 PDT)

[Repoman]

There was a recent post or two questioning whether this kit was any good. But of course nobody could speak from experience with it. Post your experience with it after install. I was looking at it too for future front end overhaul.

Only tip I have is to make sure to get it aligned after install but I'm sure you knew that already.

[The Salt]

I will be doing the install when I get back from Cali... Here are some pics.

[ncsucarjock]

I just installed most of this kit, at least, I think it was the same...I got mine from FCP Groton, but it looks identical. So far, I've been pleased. I had some issues getting the "bolt on" ball joints out - in fact, I've not done it yet, because the first one I could not get removed. They just pop in, but...mine are very stuck. I'm going to have to work on that. Nonetheless...post results when you're done.

[toddjoh]

The ball joints have a flanged fitting that gets tighter as the bolt is tightened up. It will require a ball joint puller or a good size hammer. I have some times taken an old nut and put that on the end of the ball joint covering the threads. I then take a large mallet or block of wood and beat it until it gets loose.

I've bought several items from FCP Groton, including front end components and have always been pleased with the items.

[toddjoh]

Forgot to add that you need to make sure that all the bolts on the front end are tight. might try to find out what the ft/lbs are recommended on each fitting.

you don't want to play around with loose steering items.

[FSETH]

Isn't this the company with a German name that sells parts that were manufactured in China and Taiwan?

There have been mixed reviews on Bimmerforums to say the least. Lots of negative comments warning to stay away from them as you will be replacing them again in two to three years. That is only based off what I have read though. I have no personal experience with them.

[toddjoh]

A little research does seem to confirm that the Hamburg-technic is poor quality. Good luck but do let us know your experience. Your mileage may vary.

[princemoe2m]

hows ur X feels, u think its a great product for a such great price.

Originally Posted by ncsucarjock

I just installed most of this kit, at least, I think it was the same...I got mine from FCP Groton, but it looks identical. So far, I've been pleased. I had some issues getting the "bolt on" ball joints out - in fact, I've not done it yet, because the first one I could not get removed. They just pop in, but...mine are very stuck. I'm going to have to work on that. Nonetheless...post results when you're done.

[ognjen]

I bought this 10 piece kit from ebay, I gotta install it this weekend, does anybody have DIY for it by any chance?
I paid mine 220$, i mean whoever expects OEM quality out of this kit is stupid. Its 220$!! OEM lower control arm costs 150$.
"its only gonna last 2-3 years" - well, more then i expected thats for sure.
I personally think its money well spent.