just got an old 86 prelude which runs like a rocket but while checking it out i see the wheel side cv boots (both sides) where they should be sealed and banded to the shafts, are open to the atmosphere big time. as in the boots are 2-1/2 in diameter where the bands should be and the axle shafts are only 1"???? there are turned down places on the axles where i assume the boots would normally be attached but how do 2-1/2" boot openings attach to 1" shafts?

 

Sounds like they arnt the correct boots. They should be sealed on the axle itself and then at the end where your axle nut goes. They should both have bands around them that are tight and you cant move...I would look up boots for your car and redo them because if you dont and grease comes out, you will have had bearings and then you will need to replace your axles.

 

yes, well, unless they are split boots, you have to remove the shafts and disassemble the cv to put a boot on. i thought something might be missing like a split donut or something.