e36 control arm ball joints

[SKALA]

Was told that the outer lower control arm ball joints are worn and need replacing. Further inquiry was told replace complete arm since it is not advisable to replace the outer ball joints; ball joint socket gets damaged and ball joint can fall out. Dont know what to believe and big difference in cost. Also need to replace rubber bushes. Any advice?

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Went to 3 different workshops for checking suspension wear. One said need to replace steering rack ends and suggested tie rods as well while at it. What signs will worn rack ends give?
Next one found no problems. Last one said need to replace outer ball joints of control arms and the rubber bushes. Cannot understand the discrepancy, unless the parts are not that badly worn so as to require replacing at this stage. Reason I had check done, felt funny road holding when going over bumps and round corners. The wife's car, so I do not drive it that often, but been driving/owning BMW's for last 30 years. Any views welcome.

 

[rabdos]

Difficult so say without pics. My motto is to replace, better to be safe than sorry.

 

[StK]

felt funny road holding when going over bumps and round corners.

Is usually indicative of the Rear Trailing Arm Bushes been stuffed.

 

[andrewbuch]

I have had a funny knocking sound from the front of my E36 for a while, when going over bumps & corrugations..

Had the tie rod ends replaced (Did it myself) still had knocking, had the inner rack ends replaced, still had knocking, now have had the control arm bushes replaced, but have not gotten the car back yet so cant say if the knocking is gone..


to see if tie rod ends, inner rack ends need replacing I would say when the car is off & you rock the steering wheel, if you notice any play or noises then they worn.

But if its a E36 then its older than a few years..SO rather have the stuff replaced..

 

[JpRoux]

a friend of mine was told the exact same thing, But he decided to just replace the bushes and ball joints and his car is running 100%

 

[SKALA]

a friend of mine was told the exact same thing, But he decided to just replace the bushes and ball joints and his car is running 100%

Thanks you guys for all the responses. Will keep you posted.

 

[P1000]

Why not get complete aftermarket control arms, I'm sure it will be better than replacing the balljoints. I recommend meyle, you can contact Incomex, they are the local importer. If you really want cheap parts (might not last at all) you can go to goldwagen...

 

[clarkandrew45]

Do you have some idea or do you know any other aftermarket control arm kit? I am now planning to change my own one and im thinking if you have some suggestions.

 

[StK]

You can fit E30 lemforder ones...which are a direct fit and have the solid ball-joint like the E36 M3's have but they are cheaper than standard E36 wishbone arms

 

[Peejay]

I have a pair of used control arms. Also have a set of new OEM control arm bushes.