Need BMW Special Tool???

[Skyline]

I need to change the thrust arm bushings on a 2002 X5 (E53). There is a factory tool (312260) that is basically a receiver cup, and a pusher puck. But I can not find anyone who has one in stock; (tried Baum and Samstag tools so far). I know I can buy thrust arms with bushings already installed, but I don't want to use stock bushings.

If I buy one of those massive bushing master kits, ($500+) I know I will get the size I need. But I'd like to try to find just a tool for these, and not break the bank. Any ideas?

 

[crnet18]

Ball joint press?

 

[bart1]

Check diameters at look at the rear wheel bearing tool from www.arnnworx.com ?

 

[lilredex]

Assume a through hole in that bushing?

Get two sockets together so one pushes and one receives, connected on a 1/2" threaded rod, and crank it out.

 

[franzdom]

Have you talked to Ken at Bimmertools.com? I don't see your car listed on those types of tools but he may be a good resource. I have bought from him 2 or 3 times and he is a great guy.

 

[Griff93]

Just take them off and put them in a press. All you need is an appropriate sized piece of tubing/pipe and something to cap it with so the press can push against it. This is how I did them as a dealer tech even with having access to the special tool. The bolt hole is small enough that it's hard not to tear up the threaded rod of the puller especially if they are stuck. On E53s the ball joint even unbolts from the spindle. They are either E torx (E12?) or 16mm IIRC depending on version.