2007 X5 -HELP= Front Strut removal
 

I have a 4.8is with both front coil springs broken (101,000miles). After multiple estimates ranging from $1125-$1700 to replace both, I decided I could tackle this myself and have the springs for $350. I have the strut unbolted, BUT cannot figure out how to remove the strut.
With the double wishbone straddling the driveshaft, it appears the driveshaft needs removed to drop the strut? Can this be the case? I really did not want to have to get into that.

Links to pages that address this or videos and pics would be much appreciated.

Hope it helps...

Thanks for the images. I have much of this done, BUT cannot seem to get the upper control arm to break free, is there a trick?

You prob just need to rubber mallet it a little. Those quotes are incredible tho
My suspension guy installed my KW V3 in about an hour and a half (his only other time working on an e70 was mine when I got springs installed). He did the fronts in 15 min per side.

Much of this has been said but just for clarification...

https://www.dropbox.com/s/0hyxaa2xdy...Susp1.jpg?dl=0

This bolt (2) must be completely removed not just loosened. If the upper control arm is stuck you can hammer a flat blade screwdriver or chisel into the gap to spread the joint apart.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/7utozir1li...Susp2.jpg?dl=0

Bolts (2) and (4) in this pic must be removed and this one you will definitely have to spread the joint apart like above to get the strut out.

Fair warning, the OEM springs are a NIGHTMARE to get on. I struggled through it once and the second time took the struts over to Pep Boys and for $25 cash they put the springs on.

These are a big help. What's the source of these doc's?

Thanks all, planning to get this pulled out tomorrow and to a local shop to have springs compressed and replaced with my OEM replacement.

We'll see how it goes.

BMW Rheingold diagnostic software.

Thanks. Can you run this with a K+DCAN cable?

Yes...