How to Replace the CV Boot on a Mercury Topaz

The CV boots on a Mercury Topaz provide a flexible joint in the axle. These CV joints are protected by axle grease and a CV boot. The boot is comprised of rubber. Over time, rocks, road debris and the stress on the boot from normal driving can cause it to tear. The axle grease then leaks out while dirt and debris works its way into the joint. Once the CV joint is no longer lubricated properly, it begins to grind. If you can catch the joint before it begins to "click," then you can replace the CV boot without replacing the entire shaft.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• New CV boot rebuild kit
• Screwdriver
• Electrical tape
• Metal/wire snippers
• Snap-ring pliers
• Brake parts cleaner

1. Cut the CV boot clamps off with a pair of metal snippers.

2. Pry the wire ring from the outer race.

3. Remove the outer race from the inner bearing assembly.

4. Remove the snap ring from the axle using snap-ring pliers.

5. Remove the inner bearing assembly from the CV shaft.

6. Remove the stop ring from the axle shaft.

7. Remove the ball bearings from the cage using a screwdriver.

8. Align the inner race lands with the cage windows and pull the race out of the cage assembly.

9. Spray all parts down with brake parts cleaner. The brake parts cleaner is a powerful solvent capable of removing all of the grease as well as the dirt and debris from the CV shaft joint.

10. Install the inner race into the cage assembly with the chamfered splines facing the same direction as the small end of the cage.

11. Press the ball bearings into the cage with your thumb.

12. Slide the new boot over the CV shaft.

13. Assemble the stop ring onto the shaft.

14. Install the inner race and cage assembly onto the axle with the lager diameter side, or "the bulge" of the cage facing outward.

15. Install the snap ring into the groove.

16. Pack the outer race and CV boot with axle grease.

17. Install the outer race onto the inner race and install the wire ring.

18. Release pressure or air bubbles from the boot by lifting up on the opposite end of where you filled the boot and pressing any air out with your hands.

19. Install the boot clamps into the grooves on the boot. Bend the metal tang on the clamp down and flatten it with a screwdriver.

References

• "Ford Tempo, Mercury Topaz Repair Manual 1984-1992"; Chilton Manuals; 1992

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