so i took my wheel off and noticed black grease everywhere behind the wheel. I was convinced there was a tear in the boot. Any of you know the exact replacement for the boot? i looked online and i keep seeing cv boots..is that the same thing? i dont wanna wait until my whole axle goes bad so i want to replace this asap

 

You might as well replace the entire axle. Since the boot was torn, dirt/debris and water has probably already gotten in there so in due time, the axle will go.

 

its not a really bad leak..would replacing the entire axle be worth it even if its a small leak or would just changing the boot be more convenient?

 

Changing the boot alone isn't convenient at all. It probably takes more work to just change the boot and it's a hell of a lot messier.

 

It is a lot more work to just change the boot since you have to pull the axle, separate the cv joint, clean the cv joint, repack it with grease, reassembe the joint and then reinstall. I changed two cv boots since the they were only $5 or so. But when the other two boots split I said F*** it and bought axles with a lifetime warranty.

 

you can only replace the boot itself if it pretty much literally JUST tore open, otherwise the boot and grease get infected with debris

on most imports anyways you have to replace the axle and its easier

 

replace axle and be done.

 

If it is not knocking yet, and you have more time than money, get a boot kit for less than $15 and get dirty.

 

I tore a boot, but figured since its only an extra $50.00...I might as well replace the whole thing.

 

doesnt matter if its not knocking or ticking, if its been driven with the boot open its no good

 

Have to disagree with you. I replaced the boot on my driverside almost three years ago. It was still quiet, and grease still in it. Still quiet today with no issues. Clean it out with brake cleaner and regrease when reassembling.

There is a lot of misinformation on this subjuct, mostly coming from people who have not done it (correctly) themselves.

 

QFT

 

Seeing that you have experience doing it, I plan to do over my Driver side OEM axle because it is humming and the boot is dry rotting. I bought the kit from the dealer and wanted to know what tool did you get to tighten the bands once complete or did you use a zip tie?

 

Having same problem here. My tear or leak is fresh though. Prob going to replace the axle. Got a quote today for parts/labor $130

 

I don't recall what bands I used this time. In the past I have used dull wire cutters too crimp the steel hands.
Also have used this tool while working in shops.
http://reviews.matcotools.com/7535-e...ws/reviews.htm

 

Ok which means I can get this tool at any auto parts store and they are universal. Thanks a lot.