E36 balljoints

[Chris Timmons <CHRIS.TIMMONS@xxxxxxxxx>]

  I called for quotes for replacing front lower balljoints on my 93 325is.  
  The low was $156 and the high was $250.  Is this about right?  They also 
  recommended an alignment, which was another $80.
  
  The mechanic informed me these things can go as early as 20k miles and 
  last as long as 60k on the E36, which is what my car has.  Apparently the 
  E36 uses the control arm from the E30, but with a replaceable balljoint.  
  The E30 balljoint lasted about 100k, but the E36 design didn't work as 
  expected and hence the frequent replacement(s).  Is this factual?
  
  Chris
  BMWCCA 157286
  
  PS-this is the same car for sale, just doing what I haven't had time to 
  do yet!

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