Good for you--and your buddy for getting the job done. I checked out the site you used and have this to say - I would not and don't separate the ball joint, leaving the lower half of the strut unsecured. I loosen the pivot bolts for the control arm and detach the sway bar and tie rod - leave the brake lines attached with the body bracket bolt removed (there's plenty of flex available) - remove the strut mount nuts and push the whole assembly past the wheel well opening. A jack stand placed under the "funnel" of the strut holds it pointed away from the car and limits to distance the brake lines need to stretch. - Dave