I just took mine off, after giving Sears almost 30 bucks for the 32mm open end wrench!! I whacked it with a rubber mallet (clockwise looking from the front) and it loosened right up. It then takes about six additional turns to get it off. If you need to borrow the 32mm wrench and are in Connecticut, give me a ring,
Good luck,
John in CT
1995 525i