E39/E38 Thrust Arm/Tension Strut Bushing Replacement | 540i Restoration

To safely stop my new 540i I needed to address the 2 piece thrust arm bushings. You see, they are supposed to be one-piece bushings. That's where the crux of our problem comes from. These bushings were cooked.
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Side note- This DIY is not intended as instructional content. It is merely entertainment for you to do what you wish with. I’m just a guy with an awesome beard doing stuff I love. This content should not be used as a substituted for the advise of an appropriately qualified and licensed professional.

[@JSquaredCubing]

That is such a cool car!! Can't wait to see the rest of the restoration!!

[@DrivingForwardBuilds]

Thanks, I’m building up more and more parts every week!

[@souniquexyz]

I'm about to swap out the tension strut bushing that you show here and put in the Powerflex split bushings into my 2014 X5. From what I could see, there is plenty of clearance once the arm drops once you remove the bushing mount that you could leave the ball joint side connected, remove the old rubber guts, cut the old metal sleeve and remove the sleeve to install the new bushings all with it connected to the steering knuckle side. Is there any reason that you see why that couldn't be done like that (without disconnecting the ball joint side)?

[@DrivingForwardBuilds]

You could absolutely do it this way. The outer metal shell is going to be the tough part. Take your time and score it vs cutting all the way through. Then use a chisel to hammer it out. I’ve done exactly what you’re describing on subframe bushings and a few control arm bushings. Good luck with your repair!