CV Boot problem

[dafugitive415]

I have a tear cv boot for a long time, but i never really pay attention to it. It still run fine, and i dont hear anything when i turn. But the mechanic told me that the greese are almost gone and i should replace it soon. I was wondering how many people out there are in the same situation as me.

Is it worth replacing the cv boot? since i also have to replace an oil pan gasket, and rack and pinion.

Does anybody know how much does it cost to replace the cv boot?


1990 Camry Le
3s-fe, EFI
4 cyl., DOHC

[Tommy]

dont just replace the boot. its faster and not that much more expensive to replace the whole shaft. replacing the boot is a bitch.

Oil pan gasket is a piece of cake, 10 bolts or so and your done. rack and pinion is another story.

if its a debate of whether to just let everything go to shit because you dont want to fix anything, well then dont fix anything. the CV will cost ya $100 or so if you do it yourself, which you should because its like a 30 min job at the most with 0 experience. cost of not doing it is not being able to drive the car in a month or 2

[toyomoho]

Best at this point to replace the complete axle as replacing a boot will be just as much work (or more). There is a good chance even if you replace the boot now; the CV joint will start making noise in the future. Thus why do the same work twice! In a pinch you can apply some tape around the split boot to keep water and grime out the best one can. Watch how you apply it, the boot needs to expand and contract with the suspension. The CV joint should give you a warning it is on it way out by making a clicking or popping noise.

Why do you think you need a new rack and pinion, and oil pan gasket?

As Tommy states, if you have some tools you can do many of these jobs yourself and save $$$. You will pay for the tools and parts by not paying mechanic labor costs. Read up on changing the axle through the on-line manuals and TN posts. You will need the right size sockets and a large breaker bar, impact wrench, etc, something to get the axle nut off.

[dafugitive415]

Well i dont know i need the rack and pinion but i know it is torn as well. For the oil pan gasket the oil begin to leak but it just a slow leak so i dont have to worry about it. Thanks for the replies.

[toyomoho]

A torn rack and pinion boot can be replaced pretty easily. Suggest doing this before dirt and water get into the housing. Unlike changing the CV joint, changing the rack and pinion itself is time consuming and expensive.