Hello, I have just discovered that (what I think is) my driver side CV boot has ripped. In the last week, whenever I would turn sharply (in and out of parking spots mostly), I would hear a clicking noise coming from the front wheel well. When I checked it out this evening here is what I found:



compared to my passenger side which is all nice and mucusy:



From what I've read on other posts on the site it is probably from bad brakes causing heat and tearing. Can you confirm this diagnosis?

If I already hear clicking from the driver side when I turn, does that mean that the CV joint is already bad and needs to be replaced, or can i get by with just a boot replacement?

Also, I am planning on traveling about 500 miles (highway, limited turning) this weekend... how likely is it that my axel will suddenly snap on the trip?

I already realize that I need new brakes (rotors and pads), and I will certainly add boots to that process. What type of equipment do I need to make these repairs, and how much can I expect to be charged for the parts (or if I can't do it myself, the labor.)?

Thanks for any and all help. I've been lurking here for years and found this to be one of the greatest forums on the internet.


Modified by thefuNkpuNk at 7:27 PM 3/31/2005

 

just go to an autopart store and get you new axels. some autopart store carry ltw on the axles. replacing axles is easy if you know how and good with hand tools, and manual. if not take it a pro.

 

just replace the whole axle its easier and a lot less messier. looks like the other side is busted also coz its supposed to be dry without grease. the grease is supposed to be inside the rubber boot

 

Ya. Once you hear clicking noise, it's best to replace the whole axle. Just like hatchi said, your passanger side is probably busted too. I would definitely not drive long dist. with that.

 

so it isn't supposed to be greasy like that? ****.

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by thefuNkpuNk &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">so it isn't supposed to be greasy like that? ****.</TD></TR></TABLE><TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by hatchi &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">its supposed to be dry without grease. the grease is supposed to be inside the rubber boot </TD></TR></TABLE>

cliff: clicking noise = BAD
change axles

 

Replace the entire axel its cheaper than a boot replacement and you get your core charge refunded from bringing in the old axel

 

Axle boots are supposed to be dry. Change both axles!!!