I tried to replace the lower ball joint and I ran into problem. I chained up the spring and separated the ball joint from the strut. I tried to hammer it out and no luck. I borrowed a heavy duty press from O'Reilly and managed to press the old one out, after blow torching it. It was a tough job and destroyed the old one in the process.

Now the question is how easy to press it in? If the same amount of force is needed to press it out is needed then I am afraid I may damage the new one.

Anything tips and prep I need to do to make it easier? I am thinking of heating up the rim and/or putting the new BJ into a freezer before pressing it in. If the worst comes to the worst then I may remove the LCA and take them to the shop to ask them to press it in. I never expect it to be so difficult with the W201. Why don't they make it like a W124 ( I think it is a bolt on assembly )?

Any thoughts? Thanks.

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Not MBZ nor A/C trained professional but a die-hard DIY and green engineer. Use the info at your own peril. Picked up 2 Infractions because of disagreements. NOW reversed.

W124 Keyless remote, PM for details. http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/mercedes-used-parts-sale-wanted/334620-fs-w124-chasis-keyless-remote-%2450-shipped.html

1 X 2006 CDI
1 x 87 300SDL
1 x 87 300D
1 x 87 300TDT wagon
1 x 83 300D
1 x 84 190D ( 5 sp ) - All R134 converted + keyless entry.