Torn axle boot.. easy fix? - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

Camry LE 94 · 08-07-2009, 11:14 AM

I just jacked up my 96 Camry L4 to inspect the wheels and it's surroundings and I noticed the front driver-side boot is torn open with grease all over its surroundings. Is this an easy fix, as in am I able to replace the boot without more hassle, such as taking the axle off, etc. I think I read that somewhere on a thread but I couldn't find it. Any tips would be highly appreciated.

EDIT: I was told it's a lot easier to replace the entire axle... Is that accurate?

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mandyfig · 08-07-2009, 11:44 AM

The labor to replace the boot is equal to the labor replacing the axle. My mechanic said once the dust boot is cracked, the seal is compromised, might as well replace the axle. The axle is not expensive. Aftermarket is only $50 after core charge refund.

DxElite · 08-07-2009, 11:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Camry LE 94

I just jacked up my 96 Camry L4 to inspect the wheels and it's surroundings and I noticed the front driver-side boot is torn open with grease all over its surroundings. Is this an easy fix, as in am I able to replace the boot without more hassle, such as taking the axle off, etc. I think I read that somewhere on a thread but I couldn't find it. Any tips would be highly appreciated.

EDIT: I was told it's a lot easier to replace the entire axle... Is that accurate?

Yes, it is easier over all to just replace the entire axle.

This thread talks about the boot and some options, be worth a look.

Camry LE 94 · 08-07-2009, 11:51 AM

ok thanks for the replies. do any of you think using a quick boot replacement would be a bad idea?

DxElite · 08-07-2009, 12:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Camry LE 94

ok thanks for the replies. do any of you think using a quick boot replacement would be a bad idea?

If the CV joint didn't get damaged from running without the grease for a while, then personally I think if you get the right kit that's designed for your car and is the kind that's glued shut would be good enough. It is one of the quickest, cheapest, and easier fix options.

Otherwise, if you think the CV joint is damaged, replacing the whole thing would be better.

Mike Gerber · 08-07-2009, 03:34 PM

Replacing the axle is not an easy DIY repair for a novice, IMHO.

Mike

cruisn76 · 08-08-2009, 03:41 PM

I don't get why recently people are saying to replace the entire axle just because of a ripped boot.

The boot IMO is cheap, and can be replaced in 30mins if you have performed it before.

A very helpful tool is a cone shape cylinder that you can pick up at a hardware store. Place the boot on the outside of the cone, grease it up good, and try to slide it in to axle.

As long as the bolts required to remove the axle is not seized, the job can be done fairly quickly.

Like I have mentioned in previous threads, I have replaced my boot numerous times, and if the leak/rip is detected early enough and there is no damage, by greasing it up and replacing the boot its cheaper.

Btw, when I had my boots replaced it was $60 bucks. I don't think you can get axles for $60.

95WhiteCamry · 08-08-2009, 07:04 PM

^^ i'll agree on that. I had both of my boots replaced (left and right) and paid 80 dollars parts plus labor. My mechanic said that since it was caught so early on (about 2 days before repair) that the joints weren't compromised, and that it was safe to redo the boot and not the entire axle. Rule of thumb, if you don't hear serious clicking of any sort fron that side of the axle while turning, it should be fine.