lower Control Arm ball joint stuck

[se7enthsign]

I've tried separator tools. a torch, a 2lb hammer, an air chisel. I can't get this thing out of the spindle. What else can i try? I'm trying to avoid having to pull the spindle off, but even if I do, I will still need a way to separate the ball joint. Any help would be appreciated.

[80stech]

They can be really hard to get out! It's been a long time but I am pretty sure I took the spindle off (or at least drive shaft out) and then once I was able to get on it properly with a drift and big hammer it wasn't that bad.

[josiahg52]

I bought the BMW ball joint tool after fighting a front one on my E39 for a week. Two minutes later it was out.

[se7enthsign]

Originally Posted by josiahg52

I bought the BMW ball joint tool after fighting a front one on my E39 for a week. Two minutes later it was out.

I have a similar tool but it can't find purchase on the control arm ball joint to be effective. is there a specific e70 version?

[josiahg52]

Is it a BMW tool? I tried a "similar" Harbor Freight tool that didn't work. I know there is a specific rear ball joint tool for the E39, but I don't remember the front being specific or not.

[se7enthsign]

I pulled the spindle off the car and went with heat and a heavy hammer... the whole bushing (sleeve?) came out with the ball joint. *sigh*

[Nanniepoo]

You talking #2?

I bought this: https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw...n-kit-cta-8692

and it worked like a champ, and this is in rusty Michigan with ~180ishk miles when I did it last year.

There's a little relief cut out so it clears everything.


EDIT: Dang I see you're in Detroit too! I was out of town this weekend, otherwise you could've just come grab it. Let me know if you need it for re-install or anything else.