CV Boot or entire Axle

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4whlmama

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So... I'm kind of unsure if I should post this under the Suspension topic of Transmission and Drive Train. Anyway, I have grease slipping all over my wheel well from the front passenger axle boot.

I'm in the middle of a temporary move for 3 months and plan to move to a permanent place to move my mother in who is ill and needs 24 hour care. So my funds are really tight for the next few months. I know I can't just let this issue with my truck go unattended.

So my dilemma and question is, do I just buy the CV boot and replace it or should I spend the extra money and get the entire Axle? I plan on doing both sides even though the drivers side seems to be fine, but only doing one side is kind of like only buying 1 tire or replacing brakes on 1 wheel! At least this what my Dad always told me. You do one, you do all! If he was still here, I would ask him my questions. Since he passed, I have had a really hard time having anyone work on my truck cause Dad was my mechanic. Even though he sat in a lawn chair drinking a Corona instructing me while I got dirty! He was determined to make sure his little girl would never be stuck on the side of the road and not know what to do! Well, it's actually in my genes to be mechanically inclined. So he didn't have to pound things into my head too much, but sometimes I do need some guidance. So I'm asking y'all for your advice.

Would you replace just the boot or the entire axle?

Thanks!

4whlmama
 

ExplorerTom

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Just replacing the boot requires some fairly specialized tools to get the new clamp on.

I always replace the entire axle when this happens to me.
 
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4whlmama

4whlmama

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I don't mind if I have to purchase special tools. I'm a proud Ford owner and hopefully I wouldn't need to use the tool again, but you never know. Plus might have someone that I know that would need the tool and I could loan it. Lol
 

Blksmk

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Count the costs up. Special tools parts etc. Vs a full package. Might not be that much more, then you also get peace of mind knowing you got 2 possible issues taken care of.

I'd replace the axle.
 

SomeENG

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I've replaced a single boot before, if the other one isn't leaking just leave it alone.

You have to take the CV axle apart and clean and regrease it if you're going to reuse it.

Once it's apart and cleaned any excessive wear will be apparent.

People are saying you need a special tool to put the clamp on, but I used a regular set of needle nose pliers to put it on, though it would probably have been easier with a special tool.

Reusing your existing axle takes up an extra hour or so,(cleaning) so just replace it if your time is super important.
 

Trainmaster

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No need to replace two; a waste of money if the problem is a torn boot. As was said; either clean and inspect and replace the boot or just replace the axle.
 

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