I am timid about beating off anything. Not much luck with that technique either. I used a 2 stage puller and never had a problem. I busted a cheap one on the 3rd tie rod end. It was clamped to the end and the bolt sheared off. Had to saw it off.

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Steve
1985 Mercedes 500SL Euro (Gray market)
1995 BMW 520i Euro (Gray market)
1992 BMW 525it Wagon
1994 Honda Del Sol Si