First of all, thanks for answering my previous post and now I have enough info to fix my crank seal and CV boot. I went to NAPA this morning and have the following quote:

left inner CV boot kit:
NAPA - $12.5 including grease and cramps
seal - $8

I then called a dealer and got:
boot - $39
seal - $5.97 (he asked if I have Limited slip diff, I said yes but I'm not exactly sure. He said it's difference)

Since NAPA didn't ask me if I have LSD so I wonder if they are quoting me the right seal?

For tools, NAPA doesn't lend tools and the 36 mm socket is $25 ! I wonder if Sears is cheaper? Can anyone suggest where to get a cheaper socker? I think I'll probably use it once or twice in my life time so I don't want to spend lots of money on this big socket.

For the crank pulley puller, I wonder where I can get one? What is the size I need? Do I need the 3 arms puller? How much should I expect to pay (cheapest)?

Please advise.

Thanks.
-AC

 

go to sears...by that socket..it's cheaper than rental. if u use it twice...you already got your money's worth out of it.
if you like to collect tools...buy the puller also..BUT do not open the package yet. you may be able to wiggle the crank pulley off. if yes then return the tool and call it the day.

the napa boot i believe it's probably more "generic"...the OEM is more made to spec for your car.

the boot from the dealer is 40 bucks...30 bucks more u can get a new reman axle w/ lifetime warranty.
don't be penny wise and dollar foolish...but it's your money..u do what u want to do. just giving u a suggestion.

 

I recommend replacing both boots at once, if not the entire axle. when one boot goes, the rest usually aren't far behind.

if you do both axles at the same time, it'll make it a full day job, but you'll only have to drain the tranny fluid once. that'll save you $20 right there, especially if you use good fluid.

 

Thanks for recommendation. You are absolutely right !!! The left outter CV boot was replaced about 3.5k miles ago. I took it to a backyard (but reputable) mechanic and was charged $180. Because I have spent that much money so I don't want to replace with a remanufactured axel. After studying your steps and pics, I think this is something I can do (with a few beers of course). And I'm going to buy 4 qts of tranny fluid too.
-AC

 

mmm yes. a few beers makes every nasty job easier.

 

After a few beers, make sure that u don't have any extra nuts and bolts when the job is done

 

Hell, I end up with extra parts even when I'm sober... But if I'm drinking, I don't notice until after it's working right, so it's all good

 

seeing as im sooo bored, i think i may venture out and make a Front Strut Brace Tower (thought you meant forsale trade buy for a second), out of duct tape and coat hangers. after that I may make some new "cost effective" speaker wire.
hehe
MrGone