Just got a set of Beck Arnley boots. Thought I would need to buy a tool for this, but the printed instructions don't match the bands. Is there a special technique or tool for these? Seems it would be difficult to get these as tight as the crimp type by just pulling it with pliers and folding back.

 

I hate those cheap cv bands. They never hold when I tried to use them. Jumbo zip tie FTW. I did that on my last 2 axles on my previous Maxima. Just have to make sure the mating surface is grease free.

 

I just did another search, at least one company makes a tool for this. No idea who sells it. FWIW, tie wraps also require a special gun to tighten correctly, that's why I hadn't considered using them.

 

Strong zip ties ftw

 

My zip tied axle lasted me 3 years but that didn't cause it to fail. I was lowered and I hit a dip going 40mph.

 

It looks like there are at least two other tools made for the "Band-It" clamps. They're simpler tools, neither has the internal cutter, and you have to use a wrench or socket to tighten up the band (no built-in tightening arm like in the video). One is the Lisle 30950, the other is made by KD Tools (now GearWrench). Napa sells both of these, and I know now that they work with the boot bands I got at O'Reilly. Ironically, the only tool they had at O'Reilly when I was there is the crimper used for the ear-type bands sold at NAPA. OK, I've ordered a pair of the ear-type boots/bands from NAPA, I'll decide in a couple days which ones to keep. I guess everyone knows about these tools except me, first time working with CV axles.

 

Here is a tool for crimping these bands -

http://mobiledistributorsupply.com/c...YERgQodk-oKUA#



O'Reilly Auto Parts sell them also, probably other stores too.

 

Right, O'reilly has that on the shelf. It doesn't work with the Band-It type bands that they sold me. I ordered the Lisle tool from NAPA today.

 

DO NOT USE zip ties! not very smart!
Use the steel bands that came with it. Just pull the strap with a pliers through the loop then bend it over and use the pliers to fold the tabs over to hold it down then cut the excess band off.

 

Your best bet is to get the band like in the top diagram and use the proper crimping tool. It's very simple and strong.

The bands they gave you aren't as good.

If you use a good quality zip tie in the right size it can last for years.