Author Topic: Solid CV Boot Replacement  (Read 5625 times)

rpb70sl

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Solid CV Boot Replacement
« on: October 01, 2009, 13:58:57 »
I'm looking for directions/photos for replacing with a solid boot.  BBB shows only split boot with staples.  I heard it's a tough job.  Any advice anyone?

geezer

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Re: Solid CV Boot Replacement
« Reply #1 on: October 01, 2009, 16:55:40 »
rpb70sl,

I replaced one of those boots back in the '60's.  It required disassembling the rear axle, it wasn't a fun job.  A split boot can be installed with the rear axle in place and will require less swearing.

jeffc280sl

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Re: Solid CV Boot Replacement
« Reply #2 on: October 01, 2009, 17:09:34 »
Replacing the rubber boot is a big job.  It requires removing the axle from the car.  This is challenging in itself because of the tension on the springs.  One needs to be very carefull.  The brakes need to be removed and both axle shafts need to come out.  The differential needs to come apart so that you can remove the internal U joint.  Once that's complete you can install the new boot.  You can read up on some of the steps in the rear wheel bearing tour.  I beleive the BBB describes how to remove the axles.  Here are some pics that may help.  While your in there you may want to think about new axle bearings and seals.

jeffc280sl

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Re: Solid CV Boot Replacement
« Reply #3 on: October 01, 2009, 17:10:32 »
here is the other pic

JimVillers

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Re: Solid CV Boot Replacement
« Reply #4 on: October 05, 2009, 13:27:59 »
If you decide to use a split boot (good decision), remove the gas tank to gain access.  Glue the split with weatherstrip adhesive before using the staples.
Jim Villers
190SL, 230SL 5-Speed, MGB 5-Speed, MGB GT V8 RHD (real MG), 2016 SLK

graphic66

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Re: Solid CV Boot Replacement
« Reply #5 on: October 06, 2009, 17:33:47 »
I use super glue with the spray super glue accelerator, available at hobby shops. But first you must test fit the boot, mainly the clamps, because for some reason one of them is sometimes to long. You may need to carefully shorten the clamp by re-bending the end.
   I apply the super glue along the seam, hold it together and spray on the accelerator. The accelerator is not necessary but does speed up the drying so you don't have to hold it together to long and risk moving it while it dries. This is just to hold it in place together. It is easier with two people, one holding and one spraying the accelerator. While gluing the seam the boot must not be over the axle tubes so the seam is held together as tight as possible. After super gluing you then carefully put on the staples using needle nose pliers to form them in place. I then put a layer of Seal All Glue   http://www.biosafe-inc.com/sealall.htm  on the seam and work it under the staples. I let that dry overnight. Then you apply a bead of Seal All around each axle tube where the boot goes on. This makes it easy to pull it over the tubes and seals it up completely. Be ready with your clamps, put the bigger side on first, applying the glue only on that tube. After you have clamped the bigger side then glue the smaller tube and pull the boot over it and clamp it on. I then apply another coat of seal all glue over the seam.
   The position of the axle tubes is also important as they must be as level as possible to let the boot fit on without stretching it out by having your axle tubes hanging. To do this jack up your car by the frame and then jack up your axle tubes and put jack stands under those to hold them level. And remember to test fit everything before gluing, especially the clamps, you may also decide to adjust the axle tube position by raising or lowering the tubes.
   Of course this is just one method and others may have a better way or a different glue they prefer, but this has worked for me.

graphic66

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Re: Solid CV Boot Replacement
« Reply #6 on: October 06, 2009, 20:59:04 »
Forgot one important point, your axle must be completely clean, no oil anywhere where the boot mounts. You may need to let it drain overnight and clean it with a solvent like brake-clean and follow up with some grease removing soap to get it really clean. I like Windex for the final cleanup.