BMW Ball Joint Removal Tool for E82/E9x

[KAR]

I'm in the process of replacing some rear suspension components on my 135i and discovered the passenger side ball joint appears to be in need of replacement. With the traction strut and wishbone removed (upper control arms), I can easily wiggle the wheel carrier with one hand. I understand that the trailing arm bushing could also be a problem, but the ball joint is usually the more common point of failure. I'm open to replacing both components if need be, but first I need to find the right tool(s).

I've searched through this forum (and others), spoken with the major online BMW parts suppliers, and searched ebay and Google exhaustively. So far I haven't conclusively found the right tool for the job. I did find this, but not 100% sure it's applicable for ball joints too:

https://www.turnermotorsport.com/p-5...hing-tool-set/
or
https://www.turnermotorsport.com/p-5...ian-autosport/

I figure that such a relatively easy (with the right tool) and common job must've been tackled by other DIY'ers. According to ISTA my E82 uses the exact same BMW special tools as an E9x. Does anybody here have an idea or recommendation for which, if any ball joint removal kit will work, and where I can purchase it?

[WDE82]

Buy the ball joint and make your own press tool.

I made a guide on the E46 forums for a similar style ball joint tool.

https://www.e46fanatics.com/threads/...#post-16973363

Basically you get a high strength M12 threaded rod off McMaster Carr and some nuts/washers and use assorted sockets (one to capture, one to press out, one to press in)

The ball joint press from AutoZone MAY work. Take your ball joint to the store and see if the cups fit.

[KAR]

Hey WDE82. Thank you for the great suggestion! I checked out your post over on e46fanatics and definitely see how your homemade solution might be just the ticket.

I've already got a new set of Lemforder ball joints on the way. As soon as they arrive I'll set to work on figuring out the exact measurements. In the mean time I'm placing an order with McMaster-Carr.

I really appreciate you catching my post and offering the helpful details and links!

On a fun note, do you own both an E46 and an E82? I bought a new custom order 2005 M3 back in the day, but regrettably had to part with her all too soon. Fast forward a few years to 2014, I happened upon my 2009 135i. It's done a good job filling the hole left in my heart.

[WDE82]

Originally Posted by KAR

Hey WDE82. Thank you for the great suggestion! I checked out your post over on e46fanatics and definitely see how your homemade solution might be just the ticket.

I've already got a new set of Lemforder ball joints on the way. As soon as they arrive I'll set to work on figuring out the exact measurements. In the mean time I'm placing an order with McMaster-Carr.

I really appreciate you catching my post and offering the helpful details and links!

On a fun note, do you own both an E46 and an E82? I bought a new custom order 2005 M3 back in the day, but regrettably had to part with her all too soon. Fast forward a few years to 2014, I happened upon my 2009 135i. It's done a good job filling the hole left in my heart.

I had my E46 and E82 at the same time only for a few months. I've had only the E82 for several years now. Sometimes I miss the E46 but I think the E82 is a superior car.

[KAR]

Agree!