I'm going to be doing all the arms under here except for the sway bar. Will I need to mess with the strut at all?

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This post was auto-generated based upon a question asked on our tech article page here: BMW E39 5-Series Lower Control Arm Replacement | 1997-2003 525i, 528i, 530i, 540i | Pelican Parts DIY Maintenance Article

From memory, no. I think you will have enough space to loosen and detach the lower control arm from the wheel bearing carrier. The strut will actually hold the wheel bearing carrier and brake components for you while you perform the swap out.

- Casey

In my experience you have to remove the strut from the knuckle to either get a socket on a ball joint nut or get a puller over the knuckle in the right spot, depending on if you're working on the thrust arm or the control arm.

It feels a bit sketchy but it is not a big deal - three bolts and you can wiggle it free from its notch on the knuckle and you'll have easier access for a puller and/or torque wrench. You may want to remove the speed sensors (1 little hex bolt) so you don't stretch the wires. The strut just bobbles around on the mount, it won't pop out on you when you undo the bolts. It is pretty easy to get back into place as well.