OK, so I replaced my outer CV boot today.

Here's some advice for those who are thinking about doing this:

It is nearly impossible to separate the outer CV joint without pulling out the entire half shaft by mistake, thus spilling the tranny fluid everywhere (as Matt has pointed out) Thus, I would recommend buying a new axle, instead of replacing one or both boots.

Costs for a new axle:
Axle ~$85+
Tranny fluid 5qts @ $3 ea=$15
Total $100

Costs for replacing both boots
Boots 2 @ $17 ea (Kragen)=34
Tranny Fluid $15
Total $50

It will cost you twice as much, but will take half the time. Just my $.02 after 2 trips to OSH, 3 to Kragen and 8 hours later. I've put in new struts and springs faster than that.

 

I've stated many a time that it's easier to replace the whole axle, but you specifically asked how to change the boots- so I gave you what you wanted to know.

 

I just didn't understand that the whole axel had to come out just to do the outer boot (some cars aren't like this). All the procedures I saw were for both boots, not just the outer. Anyway, thanks Matt and everyone else for the help and suggestions.

 

you can do it without pulling the axle out of the tranny, but it's a PIA. the inner joint is the one that's got to come apart, so you might as well just change the axles for a few $ more.