[tpatt745]

I am currently in the middle of changing the control arms on my 2006 325xi. I can not get a socket on to the bolt to get it off. Any suggestions??

[IllSic_Design]

Hold the stud with the correct size torx wrench while using a regular wrench(+ maybe a hammer) to break the nut loose.

[relative4]

Because of the CV boot, or because of the ridge around the bolt?
If the former:
1. Use a box wrench
2. Turn the wheel
3. The CV boot is rubber.
If the latter:
1. Get a thinner socket.

[TheMidnightNarwhal]

You're supposed to use a wrench on the nut and hold the torx bit.

Unless you're saying your torx bit doesn't fit.

[Asonchadwick]

Propane torch lots of heat

[Tambohamilton]

Originally Posted by Asonchadwick

Propane torch lots of heat

Nooo! Not that close to the driveshaft boot! Would also most likely ruin the ball joint (in case the OP needs to reuse it)...and could even affect the strength of the aluminum around the nut.

Ring spanner and torx key is what's needed. If it's an OE arm, you don't even need the torx key until the ball joint is loose in the hub (can't think of the correct word for it right now, sorry!).

[=C=]

@tpatt745

Clean the build up on the threads and get rid of the gunk with a wire brush, which will also help removing the nut.

If you have shallow sockets that are hitting the centre and don't go down enough to grip the nut, get a deep socket set to break the nut loose.

Alternatively as others suggested, use a wrench with some leverage to get it off but you must use a torx or an allen hex in the centre of the nut to stop the control arm rotating while you un-do the nut.

[6266335]

Clean those threads up with a wire brush and brake cleaner.

Don't use heat the way it sits now, and if you plan on using heat, please shield the rubber boot.

That nut is supposed to be taken out with a wrench while holding the stud with a torx bit.

[relative4]

It's been 2 weeks. Thinking he's done.

[BB_cuda]

I agree with relative4. For future searchers, use a pass through socket. Very low profile for tight clearances AND allows the insertion of the torx bit simultaneously. Though not an xi, I recall using a 22mm on my 335d front LCA.

[TheMidnightNarwhal]

Originally Posted by BB_cuda

I agree with relative4. For future searchers, use a pass through socket. Very low profile for tight clearances AND allows the insertion of the torx bit simultaneously. Though not an xi, I recall using a 22mm on my 335d front LCA.

Why is a socket or pass thru stuff even considered in this application?

Get a open ended wrench lol.

[Tambohamilton]

Agreed, sort of. Finding a pass through socket short enough to fit in there is going to be awkward. But I would recommend a ring spanner/wrench, so you're a bit less likely to mess up the nut. Also, I find it easier to use a ring spanner if you can't see what you're doing; easier to go by feel.

So; wire brush thoroughly (careful of the CV boot on X cars), apply good penetrating lube, then socket to crack it off if possible/needed (no need to hold the shaft at the start), then ring wrench and torx/hex key to wind the nut off.