RE:<E34> Ball Joint Removal

["Rodney Moore" <m6bigdog@xxxxxxxx>]

Lance,
Here you go!
This puppy is a little pricey, but it will help keep you from making a trip
to the stealer!!
E32 & E34, Thrust Rod removal tool,
part number 88-88-6-312-140, list price $214.00
If you are a BMWCCA member then you can obtain one of these beauties for
$160.00 from:
South BMW Parts,
parts@domain.elided
Stephen Wolff

An alternate procedure:
Unbolt the tie rod lever arm(3 bolts bottom of strut) and use a heavy duty
tie rod puller to push the ball joint out of the tapered bore..  You will
need to use this procedure when you remove the lower control arm.
Enjoy,
Rod...


- ------------Original Message----------------------
Date:	Sat, 24 Apr 1999 19:07:18 -0500
From:	Lance Cameron <lance@domain.elided>
Subject:	<E34>  Ball Joint Removal

I'm attempting to replace the thrust arm bushings in my 1989 535i.
Unfortunately, I can't get the ball joints on the thrust arm to loosen from
the suspension hardware.
According to the bentley manual, I'm supposed to remove the lock nut and
lightly tap with a hammer or use some sort of pressing device.  I bought a
gear puller, but there doesn't seem to be enough room for the arms to fit.
There is supposedly a BMW tool available for this purpose, but I have not
idea where to find one.  Would a dealer stock this?
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
Lance Cameron
'89 535I

- ---
Rodney Moore
BMW CCA #86830
Golden Gate Chapter
m6bigdog@domain.elided

------------------------------