okay - sorry again... I see in the thread below using the small pitman puller I can release the middle ball joint (front control arm).
http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...-pictures.html

so my question is what is the proven tool to remove the rear control arm ball joint. again, I do not want to remove it from the subframe side.

I understand your concern, I also wanted to remove the inner joint however the space was really cramped and I was unable to get either of the pullers on there to remove it.

It was just a lot easier to remove the whole thing on the subframe side (enough space to use a breaker bar) It's no big deal to re-install, just finish assembling it but don't tighten the 2 chassis side bolts/nuts, just put them on snug. Put the wheels back on, then lower the X so that both arms are in their normal fully compressed position. This ensures that the chassis-side bushings are not under stress. If you tighten them while the X is raised, then the rubber bushings in there will go bad prematurely once you lower the car since they will always be under stress.

I was able to reach in there and get a torque wrench on from the side of the car (behind the front wheels) to tighten them down to the proper values. The X sits higher than cars so there is a bit of room, I guess if you're a bit larger in "girth" or had a big lunch, you could drive it up on ramps for even more room to reach down there.

It is important to note that these bolts are torque to yield (one time use) so you should have the replacement bolts when you do the procedure.

thanks. you answered one of my other questions about "torque to yield". I was planning to buy new bolts and nuts from BMW.

has anyone tried to use this type of tool for the rear control arm ball joint?

Ball Joint Puller Tools VW Audi Volkswagen BMW Mercedes:eBay Motors (item 170382293519 end time Oct-12-09 08:48:05 PDT)

it has a max 22mm opening? I know the nylon nut is 21 or 22mm, so I think the opening on this thing should be large enough...

thoughts???

its seems like the BMW special tool (which is $350).

2001 BMW X5 3.0i

Need a few comments, I love the DIY guides very helpfule as I do most work myself, I am trying to avoid the mess and time to redo the boots as they are now ripped, I found replacement axle kits the entire assembly for less than $80, is it really as simple as removing the hub and pulling the old axle out and popping in the new one with the new boots and bearings all ready to go brand new, can anyone please talk about it if they have done it.
and any suggestions or tips
thank you

Replacement drive shafts
 

Did you actually go ahead and replace the drive shafts...I started on the job today....got a few bolts to undo and then hopefully the knuckle will come off.

Gary