I am replacing my front hub and wheel bearing (without removing spindle from car) and just need enough clearance to move the axle out and away from the hub.

Is it simpler/better to do so by:

1. Detaching the lower ball joint and dropping it out that way? (My current plan.)

2. Detaching only outer tie rod to turn the steering knuckle to push out the axle laterally?

Or should I just do both?

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2008 E350 4matic / Black/Anthracite

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Gone but not Forgotten:
2001 E430 4matic, 206,xxx miles, Black/Charcoal
1995 E320, 252,xxx miles, Black/Grey
1989 260E, 223,00 miles, Black/Black