I am going to replace the boot and not the axle. I am wondering which option would be the easiest:

1. Buy an installation to tool to stretch the boot over the joint without having to take the joint apart. I think the tool is a bit pricey though.

2. Separate at the joint...how?

3. Separate at the shaft...how?

4. Other methods?

Thanks,

Craig

 

4. Other methods.
Buy a complete replacement axle.

From the sounds of it you will only run into trouble trying to do what you want to do.

 

Perhaps.....and if I do then the replacement axle becomes a good option.

 

I replaced CV boot numerous times...decided just to get a replacement axle...much easier to do and costs about the same as taking it to a shop to get the boot replaced

 

if the axle has been exposed too long your better off replacing it.

 

1. No way in hell will that will stretch over the CV joint, if it does I wouldn't trust it to last long at all.
2. Gotta start at #3 first
3. Buy a Haynes & FSM
4. Just replaced the outer boot a few weeks back on mine, did it myself... will buy complete axle next time.