I just failed my VA state inspection because I need new control arm bushings (wow, those state inspections are thorough! ) Dealer will charge $750 for the work.

I see in the Bentley repair manual that there are four ( ) special BMW tools needed for removing the control arms and the bushings. Does anyone near Hampton Roads, VA happen to have any of these tools I might borrow for a day, or know where they might be obtained?
Inner ball joint removal tool
Outer ball joint removal tool
Control arm removal and installation tool
Control arm bushing removal and installation press tool

Other generic tools that might do the job?


Any other advice that springs to mind is always welcome!

Thanks!
Aaron

 

One of the things d'Mini is getting as a part of his "make-over" is a new left control arm. That is the ONLY reason I know what you are talking about. I can't believe a state inspection would catch that. Maybe the guy's boss said "find something, or else!" around here, all we have to do is demonstrate that headlights, turn signals, brake lights, wipers, and horn work.

 

did you have the dealership do the inspection? take it to some other place, there's no reason a shop should fail your inspection for that. btw read some of the threads about replacing the bushing (there's many) the special bmw tools aren't needed if you can find a generic ball joint remover

 

Wow you've got one strict mechanic! I think the most indepth mine goes is to check for exhaust leaks, and that's only on older cars.

 

In the thread starter ferk mentions four bushings which are how many there are for the rear control arms.

For the front control arms (wishbones) there are two; one for each side. It does take a special bushing removal tool unless the bushing brackets are removed and press used. For removing the ball joints, if the subframe is lowered, generic tools can be used.


The inspector could have noticed oil dripping from the front bushings and that would indicate pending failure

or the tech could have grabbed the wishbone and noticed slop from a torn bushing.



Here is a tutorial for a shortcut if the bushing removal tool works as it was designed to; if the tool starts to move into the bushing sleeve the subframe will have to be removed and it will take a large washer placed on the end to get it started. https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...light=wishbone

 

I just dropped my subframe and replaced the control arm bushings, not really that bad. It seems the hardest part is reinserting the control arm back into the new stock bushings. Anybody know any tricks or procedures that might help?