I need to replace an outer CV boot. Most guides I have seen involve removing the inner CV boot and joint, and sliding off everything on that side. However, I have also seen an occasional comment where you can somehow take the outer joint off if you whack it with a hammer.

First off, is there a particular disadvantage to doing it this way?
Second, I am not really clear on the instructions. Which part are you supposed to whack, and is there a circlip or ring that you are supposed to take off first (not counting the actual boot)?

 

use a brass hummer it will dent and ding the hummer not the axles. and then just pull the boot off the same way.