Outer ball joint replacement?

[tidan]

I need to replace my outer lower ball joints on my 97 328is and can't seem to find any info?! Theres numerous tutorials on how to replace the entire control arm, but nothing on how to do just the outer ball joint.
I'd just do the whole arm but my budget is tight right now. $55 vs. $250.


Does anyone know of any DIY's or has had experience just doing the BJ?

Thanks!

[Jared at Pelican Parts]

You need a special tool to remove the ball joint. The tool is $175. Quite honestly, It's not worth the pain involved with changing out the ball joints. After doing this job once, I'd tell you to just replace the arms. it's a bit of a pain.

[tidan]

Thanks for the reply!
I have a hand press with cups similar to the harbor freight model that says it works on ball joints. Any chance that tool would work?

[Jared at Pelican Parts]

You could try, but honestly, its easier to just replace the arms

[Yurick]

tidan,
I was like you before getting into this project myself, but after changing the ball joints on the passenger side, I realized what a pain in the azz this was. The driver side went much smoother and quicker, as I replaced the complete arm assembly (well worth the extra money).

[Manolito]

I went down that same road. I think I still have a pair of still-sealed Meyle outer ball joints in boxes in my parts box that I will give away for he cost of shipping if anyone wants them.

[tidan]

Any tips for getting the old ball joints out and the new ones in? Will I need to cut off that retainer strap looking thing first?

Thanks for the replies!

[Manolito]

A well-placed charge of high explosives might do it.

As I recall, that strap holds the old ball joint together. It does not need to be removed. the new style ball joints don't have a strap.

As Jared pointed out, the ball joint is pressed out with a special tool that you will likely use only once and costs more than a new control arm. I thought I could do it with my hydraulic press, but I couldn't.

[markdas]

Save up for another month and change the arms.......

these guys are not joking or trying to get your cash......in the long run, you will spend twice that on re-work and re-alignment etc!