air tools are not a must , they just make the job easier, all i know is when running out the lower strut bolts or zippin the 2 rack bolts off the frame its 2 minutes verses 20 minutes.
as for seperating the lower ball joints , i have that tool and think it blows .. i usually just take the castle nut off and strike the side of the spindle where the ball joint goes thru a couple times with a large hammer and it breaks the taper , same with tie rods. pickle forks are good if your replacing the part.