If you just want to do a cheap fix and try regreasing the joint, you can get a needle for a grease gun and insert it through the rubber boot. Pump grease until it starts to ooze out. Like I said this is just a temp fix.

http://images.oreillyauto.com/parts/...pfm/w54213.jpg

It is not necessary to buy the ball joint tool if you would rather not. A tool that works just fine is 'rented' free at many auto parts stores such as Autozone.

Yes...you have to de pressurized the Rear suspension

if you're doing it in your garage...you'll need strong Jack and a jack stand ...

lift up the jack stand press it onto your suspension platform as your lowering the car the suspension will depressurize and you will be able to take it off...

4.8isX5 can chime in as he is doing my full Refresh Front and Rear suspension set

here is a video
of Vac Motorsports

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_guTE2ANcIg

THIS is a very good guide used to change out the rear ball joints.

That's a very good write up. Thanks for sharing. R&Ring my rear ball joints, intergal links, and control arms is on my summer to-do-list.

It is excellent and explains every step. Although it's for a 7 series it's identical (apart from telling you to deflate the airbag).

And also explains why a free rental tool might work but the BMW special tool will make the whole job a LOT easier

It took me 2hr. using no special tools. and Yes, you will want some good jack stands ( i made pieces that attach to the top of the jack stand and in turn fit into the jack pads under the car. Once up on all 4, it is rock solid!

makes life a whole lot easier when you are doing it in your 2 car garage with no lift ;)

I picked my application specific tool off of Amazon.com. Sold by SG-Autosports. It came with pictures and instructions on how to use it. $134 w/ tax, tag, and title.

I second the AutoZone rental but I've had bad luck with highly used tools or not being available when I need it.

Buy vs. Rent, depends on if you are in the car for the long haul.

Nyum96 I would be interested in renting from you when you are done with the job most likely