RCsGX

There are 2 boots per axle, inner and outer. Most of the time the outer (closest to the wheel) is the one that rips. To answer your questions, yes axle boot and cv boot are the same thing and yes you only need to replace the boot that's ripped.

Some will just replace the boot(s), some will repack the cv joint with grease and replace with new boot(s) and some will replace the entire axle from Napa since the cost of labor will be the same as messing w/ replacing the boot(s). You also get a lifetime warranty through Napa so if it ever fails you remove it, bring it in and get a new one for free.

fastnoypi

if you are handy, get an OEM axle boot kit and replace it yourself. Its a messy job but the Toyota/Lexus axle is much better quality than a NAPA or other brand remanufactured axle you may receive in exchange.

99suprduty

I just had my inner and outer boots replaced on the drivers side. The boot kit from Toyota was $53 and the shop did the work for $200 (IIRC). I probably could have done it myself but figured the money was reasonable and worth it.

*edited to add, I didnt feel the axle needed replacing, just the boot. If I was going to replace the axle I would spend a bit more and go OEM just for piece of mind. I replaced the axle on my '98 honda civic a few months back and just did the Napa part since its just a run around town vehicle.

shinbo

Thanks guys, To clarify, I am supposed to purchase one of each of these for the ENTIRE boot kit correct?

RCsGX

To do the inner / outer boots on the right side you need the following kit (see also attached PDF)
Part Number: 0442760140
Link: http://lexus.sewellparts.com/oem-cat...X470-2005.html

The parts below are what's included in the kit above except the grease bottles will be in a white container and you'll only get 1.

chiph9

Don't you also need a special set of pliers to crimp the bands?

Chip H.

ALAN553

when my boots went, did the pricing, just put in rebuilt toyota axles and did both side. the mechanic prefers it and the pricing was the same.

fastnoypi

I've been doing them for years using end nip pliers with no issues, you have to grab, cinch and roll the end tight. But yes, there is a special cv boot pliers out there that does the same thing.

shinbo

I actually took the car to my mechanic today and it turns out ... it's only the right inner boot that's leaking. The mechanic that checked it out says it's not even torn so I'm guessing maybe the clamp's loose and the grease got out.

He told me not worry about it... now I'm in a dilemma, Not sure if I should leave it alone, or maybe find a clamp of some sort to tighten it up.

RCsGX

If you don't see any slung thick dark greyish grease around the axle / underbody I wouldn't worry about it. If you do see some grease slung I would fix it. Depending on where it's leaking it could be a really cheap fix. This is what I did and it's held up fine:

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/gx-...cheap-fix.html

chiph9

I would clean the area and then drive it for a few days (maybe a week) to see if any grease is being slung out (like RCsGX says). That'll let you know where it's coming from.

Use a shop towel soaked with soapy water to wipe it down -- use Dawn dishwashing liquid, as it cuts grease really well (not just an advertisement - it really does).

Chip H.