Q: How to remove and replace CV boot on a driveaxle?
A: To remove and replace the CV joints on a driveaxle, start by removing the driveaxle and placing it in a vise lined with rags to protect the shaft. For the inner CV joint, cut off the boot seal retaining clamps and slide the boot towards the center of the driveaxle. Remove the tri-pot housing from the spider assembly and then remove the spider assembly from the axle by removing the inner and outer retaining rings. Clean all the old grease from the housing and spider assembly, and inspect for any signs of wear. Pack the housing with grease and place the remainder in the CV boot. Slide the CV boot onto the axle and install the spider assembly with the recess facing the end of the driveaxle. Install the tri-pot housing and adjust the collapsed dimension of the joint before installing the retaining clamps and the driveaxle. For the outer CV joint, tap lightly around the seal retaining ring to remove it and cut off the band retaining the CV boot to the shaft. Remove the snap-ring and slide the joint assembly off. Remove the old CV boot and mark the inner race and cage for reassembly. Remove the balls from the cage and remove the inner race from the cage. Clean all the components and inspect for wear. To install, reverse the disassembly steps, ensuring the marks on the inner race and cage are visible after installation. Pack the CV joint assembly with grease and install the CV boot on the driveaxle. Position the CV joint assembly on the driveaxle and drive it onto the shaft until the retaining ring is seated. Install the CV boot and retaining clamp, and secure the seal retainer. Finally, install the driveaxle.
Q: What is the importance of driveaxle boots and how should they be maintained?
A: CV boots are necessary because they function as a shield that prevents dirt, water, and debris from getting inside to destroy the constant velocity (CV) joints. Also, it is important to inspect them for tears, cracks, and loose clamps periodically. This can be done by tearing over time but regularly checking for tears, cracks and loose clamps on the boot on the pointed area if there any cracks or grease on it. In case of cracked covers or if the grease comes out through small opening then new boots have to be installed.