I found out that by passenger side inner cv boot is ripped. CV joint still seems good.

In next few days I intend to tackle it.

The least invasive way would be to remove the 6 bolt flange and slide the cv joint and pull the clip and slide off the cv joint and slip in the new boot. Service manual suggests to remove the shaft (from the hub and transmission)..

So here are my questions:

1. Do you think I can change the boot by just undoing the flange?

2. If any used the oem boot kit, how did you tighten the band clamp?

Salim

 

I know many will disagree, but about 20 years ago, I changed a boot on a Buick with a split boot. It was easy and it lasted many years. I guess it just depends on how long you expect to keep the vehicle.

 

I am seriously considering the split boot, but not the repair patch (unless some one says otherwise).

The split boot replacement has its disadvantages as another might rip soon. If I add the cost of parts and alignment (if I take the spindle out .. as suggested in the service manual) the $ start adding up. I can do repeated split boot repairs.

Salim

 

The split boot is very easy. Even if another boot rips in another location just get another split boot and repair. I had mine about 4 years after the repair. Still intact.

 

I found some which stretch over (the little hole stretches to go over the largest piece). This approach still requires to disassemble one end.

Salim

 

I have found that even after replaced a drive shaft alignment was not effected. a whole new shaft would cost under $90 and would have new boots....I have used the split boots with success.

 

Its time to do the driver side now.

Will get to it as soon as the heat goes down ,,,, looks like Dec

Salim

 

what did you end up going with on your passenger side? a split boot? or oem style with band clamps?

 

Lexus sells a boot kit. Clamps are easy to install. The grease/lubricant is pretty yuckky! I did not have to remove the shaft from the transmission.

My cv joint came apart as I did not install the lock screws. It was fun putting it back together.

Just purchased the kit. Lets see when I can do the install.

Salim