BMW E39 rear control arm bushing (tie rod end) replacement
What tool is needed to replace the E39 rear arm bushing?
A puller is needed, because removing the bushing without one is almost impossible. You can make or borrow one before starting the job. A 16 mm rod works as the threaded rod. Oiling the threads, penetrating oil and heating help.
How is the new bushing installed?
1. Clean the seat. 2. Press the new bushing in straight, because if it goes in crooked it splits the aluminium eye. 3. Press the bushing halfway in by hand and the rest with the puller. 4. If the bushing will not go in, clean the edge of the eye with sandpaper. A frozen bushing or a heated eye makes it easier.
Do the bushings need replacing if they are not broken?
Good ones do not have to be replaced. However, loose bushings make camber adjustment inaccurate, and with new bushings the camber was set well. If the bushings are old, they should be replaced on both sides at once.