In an R53, is it possible to remove the ball joint at the apex of the front lower control arm without dropping the subframe?

 

Yes, pry/pull drive axle from transmission, unbolt ball joint bracket, use universal ball joint seperator (KD 3916).

 

Thanks.

 

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...nsmission.html

This shows pics at the end of the thread of the control arm removed without subframe being pulled. Might help

 

If you look closely in those photos you will see all the subframe bolts have been removed and a jack is underneath to lower the subframe, to get the bushing brackets out, the subframe had to be lowered even if not dropped to the ground.

To remove the inner ball joint bracket either the driveshaft has to be removed or the subframe lowered; the driveshaft tripod bearing & boot are in the way of removing one of the ball joint bracket bolts.