I have an 04 R53.
Has anyone had success removing and replacing the inner ball joints by raising the engine (to clear the top bolts), while not/rather than, removing the subframe?

I have no choice but to preform the task in a parking lot with no previous experience and only have a limited amount of time. I've read and understand that removing the subframe is the preferred route; giving full access to all components that could potentially need to be addressed. Makes perfect sense.
However, in my case; all the suspension bushings, outer ball joints, drop links, struts have just been replaced recently or within 6k. The CA bushings and tie rod ends replaced within 15k (OEM).
I just need to replace the inner ball joints.

In addition: I have a ball joint separator and a long fork.

Although I've read quite a bit - Any feedback or tips would be certainly welcome.

 

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I remember dreading this job because I had read horror stories about what a b!tch it was, but actually turned out easy for me, I didn't drop the subframe and was able to do it but was a while back and my memory has faded so can't give much more detail.

RE:
Ball of Confusion

Me: GenX = What a great Love & Rockets song!
My old boss: Boomer = Say what? You mean The Temptations moran!


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Nay.

Deep funk in longform is surely the winner!

 

My only tip is to soak everything in penetrating oil for as long as possible, but you already knew that. Unless you live in the desert. Good luck.

I've never heard of Love and Rockets and The Undisputed Truth version isn't my cup of tea; but with the Temptations you're talking my language. Makes sense, I guess, since I'm a boomer - at the tail end of the boom so I don't really think of myself as a boomer but that's my official designation.

 

Love and Rockets
Sorry. I’m of no help with the ball joints