2008 Expy CV Boot leaking

[FlyBoyd]

So I went for an oil change the other day and Ford (I know I don't like the stealer either, but in a small town I don't have a lot of choices!) said that my CV boot was leaking. They quoted me almost $400 bucks to replace. Is this something that I can do on my own with some basic maintenance knowledge? And is that price about right? Also how long can I let this go before it becomes a must fix?

Thanks for any input.

 

[1997SCEBFEX]

FlyBoyd,
I had my pass side replaced back in 2004. I kept noticing "silvery" stuff around the boot and on the frame etc., and just wiped it off, but asked the folks @ service.

So, if you look up under which ever side it is, you can determine the amount of "spray" on your undercarriage etc. to determine the severity. The factory clamp generally loosens over time, or the boot itself develops a tear.

Don't remember what it cost back then, but it wasn't too expensive, plus the work was covered by warranty.

Hope it helps.

 

[FordandPolaris]

You can probably let it go until it starts binding during turns or making noises at high speeds. I just replaced the ones on the front of my truck with no problems, granted mine is from 11 years ago (in relation to your truck) and has a little more room underneath than the newer ones. Still it is only 6-8 bolts that hold it on to the front diff plates (not sure the technical name for them) and the axle nut on the other end where it inserts into the wheel hub. Cost about 100 bucks in parts and I was done with it in about 2 hours.

 

[jbanks]

Last week I got a brand new axle from O'reillys for $62.99 + Tax with a lifetime warranty. I believe they have re-manufactured axles for $52.99. Like FordandPolaris said, it's super easy. If you can change brakes you can do this axle. You will need a 35mm socket for the nut on the end of the axle. The new axle came with a new nut that was slightly larger than the original. I actually used a 1 3/8 socket on the original but needed the next size up on the new one 1 7/16. You also need a torque wrench that will go to 220 ft-lb to re-tighten it.