CV Axle / Boot
 

My CV Axle Boot, the one that connects to the wheel, is torn completely in half... So I have two questions.

1. It makes a nifty rolling popping sound when I turn and accelerate, so like... do I need to hurry and fix this or can it wait a bit.

2. I know that labor rates vary, but what is a good price range to plan to fix this?

Thanks

People here have been saying that you are better off replacing the entire axle assembly as opposed to just the boot.

The noise you are hearing is most likely a little chunk of metal missing from the c/v joint itself. Possibly small rocks got in and caused the damage.

thats what I was wanting a quote for, my mistake for not being so precise...

the WHOLE assembly... anyone, Bueler?

Re: CV Axle / Boot
 

It is bad and will continue to get worse. The poppping noise is the bearings snapping over a worn spot. Take it easy and don't push it. Go slow around corners and this will not load it up much. It will continue to wear and end up with a lot a play to the point where it will vibrate on the highway at 60+ and also going up steep hills. The steep hills load up the axle.

You have some time but not much. Mine behaved like I said above only my boot wasn't ripped.

What I've Seen Happen to Others
 

Beav's Credo #1: When it comes to automobiles, nothing gets better on it's own.
You can't drive a nail very well with the hammer already sitting on the nail head. However, once you gain clearance between the hammer and the nail, you can wail the heck out of it. Also known as "Acceleration of Wear due to Clearance Growth" factor.

What can happen? The comparatively pleasant result is that the joint disentegrates internally and the car doesn't move forward or backward anymore. The possibly horrendous result is when the shaft breaks and flails around, destroying everything within its reach, brake hoses (not good, in case you were curious), suspension pieces, engine parts, radiators, exhaust manifolds, etc. (all the the parts mentioned vary between models and more than likely does not include all possible combinations.)

I'm not trying to scare you, but I'd rather err to the defensive side than to the "Why didn't you tell me that could happen?" side. You probably have a little time, just take it easy and repair it as soon as possible.

Thanks for all the tips, but my main reason was to begin preparing for the cost...

What price ranges should I be preparing for?

To do it yourself plan on around $80 -$100 and a couple hours (the first time takes longer ;) ) At your avearge repair shop about $250 installed would be a decent guesstimate for a reman shaft. If you get a new one installed at the dealer you better learn how to walk with your back against the wall first... :eek:

Thanks Beav, I appreciate your concern.

My local shop that has the guy that was on the Initial SVX Team quoted me $215... I like this.

This is for him to remove my axle, have it rebuilt and reinstall it... sounds good too me, and by far the cheapest shop maintenance I have had yet!!

for the record...
 

ok, i run a autobody and repair shop, i have a supplier that charges me only 44.99 maned axle shaft, if any one is in a pinch (short on funds) i would be willing to get you guys some, of course there would be around an addition 15 for shipping it to you and your core back to me :( i like helping people out if your in a pinch, l;et me know, thanks!