If you insist on using a cheap ass Harbor freight tool, use a combination of preload and a hammer to shock the knuckle to get the ball joint out.

Here a video on this procedure.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZcCfWmrVQfM

For removing the torx bolts that is securing the ball joint to the spindle, I would recommend that you use a hand impact instead of trying to use a breaker bar with the female torx socket. You don't want to snap the torx bolt off and need to drill out the remaining pieces.

http://thumbs1.ebaystatic.com/d/l225...B6ZbaMJLEg.jpg

Wow! Glad there is a lot of love for Goodwood out there, you know I had no idea a motoring show in Sussex where we trash some cars up a hill was so well known around the world! I am a massive fan of Gas Monkey Garage and they go to some epic shows... Next time I am in the US I am going to TX and seeing them and a car show. (That is if we haven't towed the UK over to the US and added us as an additional state after our crazy BRexit.) Sorry off topic and going political so... back on to cars.

TiAgX5 don't hate me to much, but... I got the VIP treatment at Mclaren as well and a chance to take the 570 GT up the hill. Seriously, one of the most impressive machines I have ever driven (without sounding to showy, I have driven a few) it was the perfect mixture of a drivers car if you know what you are doing and something that the wife can drive around in daily. (actually, my Wife is a better driver on the road than me!)

I pic of my face as I parked up and got out of it says it all (sorry)https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net...08177942_o.jpg. I want one.... but the kids don't fit in it.

I remember walking around the paddock area at the top and seeing Sir Sterling Moss just casually chatting with people. And John Surtees. And Jacky Stewart. It was surreal.

If anybody is interested in buying a spare set of thrust arms to press bushings in, I have a set of OEM. The original bushings on it are no good. $80 shipped, PM me

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With patience, PB blaster, directly applied propane heat, pressure from the cheapo Harbor Freight 3/4" BJ tool, and a few timely wacks from a sledge, both thrust arms [and control arms/wishbones] are off the E53. Anyone in the ATL area who wants the thrust arms [OEM Febis] to insert bushings into are welcome to them, pm me. On to the ball joints!

Can get them for almost half that on eBay

BMW Front Tension Control Arm Pair E53 x5 31126769717 31126769718 | eBay

Can get a couple of Brand New Arms for almost the same as your used arms.

New Front Left Lower Control Arm for A 2000 2006 BMW x5 with Lifetime Warranty | eBay

Got both of mine for $40.00 from a fellow Xoutposter.

Good to hear that you were able to get the ball joint off.

Wow.


$40 shipped for a pair of used thrust arms then.

Wow that was a big price drop.

You should check the cost of shipping, unless you can get it into a box that if it fits it ship, it's gonna cost you almost that to ship it. Better to look for a buyer that can pickup in your area to avoid the shipping cost.

Fine.

Back up to $60 shipped :p

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