Constant Velocity Joint Boot: Service and Repair

NOTE: The Birfield type CV joint on outboard end of halfshaft is serviced as a complete CV joint/halfshaft assembly. The tripot type inner CV joint can be disassembled and serviced. If only the outer CV joint boot needs to be replaced, follow the applicable disassembly and assembly steps below:

1. Remove halfshaft from vehicle.
2. Secure halfshaft in a soft jawed vise.

Fig. 5 Halfshaft Service:

3. Using a screwdriver, pry up locking tabs of inner CV joint boot bands.
4. Remove bands with pliers.
5. Slide boot back to expose CV joint.
6. Mark shaft and CV joint housing to ensure proper assembly.
7. Remove retainer ring from CV joint housing.
8. Remove CV joint housing from halfshaft.
9. Mark tripot bearing and shaft to ensure proper assembly.
10. Remove tripot snap ring.
11. Gently tap tripot bearing off shaft using a suitable soft faced hammer.
12. Wrap tape around splines of shaft.
13. Remove inner CV joint boot.
14. If outer CV joint boot is to be replaced proceed as follows:
a. On righthand halfshaft, pry up rubber damper retaining band locking clip and remove.
b. Pry up on outer CV joint band clamp and remove.
c. Remove outer CV joint boot.
15. Inspect all CV joint grease for contamination. A contaminated CV joint must be completely disassembled, cleaned and inspected. If outer CV joint has contaminated grease, assembly must be replaced.
16. Reverse procedure to install, noting the following:

Fig. 6 CV Joint Boots:

a. Inner and outer CV joints are different in size. Failure to properly install boot on proper end of halfshaft could lead to premature boot and/or CV joint wear.
b. Wrap CV joint boot clamps in a clockwise direction.
c. Align marks made during disassembly to ensure proper assembly.

Fig. 5 Joint Lubricants:

d. Fill CV joint and boots with specified grease, then "burp" air from boot.

Fig. 6 Halfshaft Assembled Lengths:

e. Measure assembled halfshaft for proper dimension as shown.