How to Install a CV Boot Joint

When the boot of a CV axle tears and rips, dirt gets in and grease leaks out. This causes the CV axle to make a thumping sound, especially when turning the car. The CV axles are an important part of your drive train. If left alone, the car will eventually become impossible to drive. The CV boots should be checked at every oil change. Changing them out is not that difficult.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Prybar
• Wrenches and 1/2 inch socket set
• Replacement CV joint

1. Remove the wheel cover and loosen the nut holding the joint to the bearing.

2. Raise the vehicle and remove the lower ball joint from the lower control arm and the knuckle.

3. Slide the half shaft out of the knuckle. Use a prybar and pry the inboard end of the shaft out of the transmission or intermediate shaft, whichever should apply.

4. Reverse the process to install the shaft. The inboard side of the shaft should snap right back into the intermediate shaft and transmission by means of a snap ring on the end of the shaft.

Tips & Warnings

• Save the receipt for the CV joint. Usually, an auto parts store gives a lifetime warranty on CV joints. They only last three to four years, so put the receipt somewhere safe.
• If the CV axles don't fit, measure it up with the old one. If it's not the same size, they sent you the wrong one or the wrong side.
• Ask if they want the core, which is the used CV joint. They will give you a credit on it if they re-manufacture them.
• Be careful not to damage the seal in the transmission.

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