CV boots, yay (Not)

[Sqrly]

I was doing routine maintenance and spotted some grease splashed around on the left front suspension. I know where this grease came from just by looking it it. It has a unique color and texture.

It's a tiny little hole ffs!



Anyways, I'm going old school, I'm going to replace the CV boots. I'm pretty sure nothing got into the joint . I've been putting off replacing the axle seal on that side for a long time, I'll finally get that done too.

These boots from Rock Auto look like the ones in it so I'm going to try them. I'm replacing the inner too ofc, one of those "while your there" things.

 

[Mektek]

I used a outer universal silicone CV boot from China. So far after 1000 miles it seems OK.
Before that I used a neoprene boot and it failed after less than 5000 miles. Maybe the one you chose is better quality??????

 

[movietvet]

At that age, with unknown miles-you did not say, if is original axle, I would replace the axle assembly and the seal.

Unless you like gooey messes, because that is what will happen when you take the old boots off. Do you know what to look for when you remove the old boots and completely clean the joints and inspect?

 

[Mektek]

The recommendation on this site is that the OEM axles are of better quality than the aftermarket replacements so they should be retained if possible. I was surprised to find out that after two decades and lots of miles the joint was still tight and had very little wear. Since it's only part time use in the front there's a minimal load on the internal components.
The driver side has the original plastic boot and still is OK.
And yes, I love the smell of gear oil and those ooey gooey greasy messes