Is replacing the front control arms difficult?

[hayabusafiend]

My non-dealer mechanic said my 2005 X5 with 58K miles needs new forward control arm/thrust arms (he used both terms) and ball joints. He wants $800 for the job (and $800 to replace a squeaking alternator). My wife has had us car shopping the last 2 days staring at $1,600 in service.

First up is the suspension:

I restore old or improperly stored motorcycles, but car suspension seems a little daunting.

I've changed car tires, brake pads, and hand repacked wheel bearings (88 Mustang GT), but never replaced hard parts.

I bought this kit from FCP Groton that includes all the pieces to replace all steering elements (control arms, thrust arms, tie rod assemblies, ball joints, sway bar links, idler arm, and center tie rod assembly (a.k.a. drag link)).
BMW X5 10-Piece Control Arm Kit

Youtube searches didn't provide much detail.
I'm pretty sure I'll need a four wheel align when complete.
What are the bolt torque specs?
Is there an order to replace the parts (other than the obvious mount the new ball joint before the new thrust arm)?
Any gotchas for someone who has never removed car suspension components?

Thanks in advance for advice.

Edit: Sorry, hadn't seen the tire,wheel,brake,suspension section before posting.