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Can I use these CV boots to replace a torn CV boot?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Main Forum' started by priuslyfe, Nov 1, 2024.

  1. priuslyfe

    priuslyfe Member

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    Basically, I have a two Prius', one is a parts car that is wrecked in my yard and the other is what I drive (has over 300K miles). Recently noticed while doing other repairs that my PASSENGER-SIDE CV BOOT was torn and had a small leak. No clicking-sounds or more noticeable signs of failure yet.

    However, I also recently removed my DRIVER-SIDE axle off of my parts-Prius. Can I use either boot and replace the torn boot on the other Prius OR should I remove the entire passenger-side axle off of the parts-Prius and replace it instead of the boot.

    I read in another thread that for some reason, passenger-side boots tend to go and driver's side don't on Gen 2 Prius.

    Also thinking about just having a shop replace the CV boot since it'll be messy/greasy, but not sure they do that anymore as I've read they tend to just replace the entire axle nowadays. So my options are...

    A. Replace boot with used boot
    B. Replace axle with used axle
    C. Forget about it and let mechanic worry about it

    Thoughts?

    [​IMG]

    [​IMG]

    CV BOOT outer-side that I'll actually need

    [​IMG]
     
  2. BiomedO1

    BiomedO1 Senior Member

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    If this was me; I'd replace the whole axle from the parts car. Isn't that what it's for?? You can buy a $10 boot kit and repair the old one. Quick swap, less down time. If you just replace the boot, the axle needs to come out anyways. There are expensive, quick boot kits - but in my experiences they don't last very long.

    Just my 2-cents...
     
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  3. Tombukt2

    Tombukt2 Senior Member

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    I have four of these guys so when it comes time for a boot or an axle we just replaced the axle they're like what $66 or something at your axle exchange place something like that not very expensive by the time I pull it do boots whatever else is needed I've easily got that in time in the thing All of them are rebuilt at some point in the game.
     
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  4. priuslyfe

    priuslyfe Member

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    yeah I'll probably do that but since I already have the drivers' side axle off thought I could use the boots before i toss it.

    why can't I just slip the parts-cvboot over the working prius's axle?
     
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  5. Tombukt2

    Tombukt2 Senior Member

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    You can there's nothing stopping you at all from doing any of this No sir. So slip away and put it right on there and have at it You already have it sitting there and ready to go and so on so seems like a no-brainer doesn't it I'm just talking about from a maintenance in general repair type deal for somebody that doesn't have another whole car sitting on their property It may be cheaper just to take a complete axle stick it up in there you have two new joints two new boots good to go for another $300,000 or better I've got cars sitting out here with 360,000 mi on them right now with original wheel bearings and CV axles and no problems and no noise nothing so I just leave them and I've had the bearings and the new axles and things to go in them sitting right here at the ready one or two cars have even been wrecked and gone way of the salvage yard and I've gotten two more and still they haven't even taken the parts these generation twos are well made vehicles oh what a feeling and all that you know The good stuff I feel bad for those generation 3 guys.
     
  6. priuslyfe

    priuslyfe Member

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    Can I replace the boot WITHOUT taking the axle off though? Is there any way to stretch it over the front (wheelside)?
     
  7. Tombukt2

    Tombukt2 Senior Member

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    Nyou won't be doing that.
     
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  8. mr_guy_mann

    mr_guy_mann Senior Member

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    No, replacing either inner or outer boot requires removing the axle and the joint. The outer joint needs some tools (a vice, hammer, drift, some finesse) to get off. Or take the inner joint completely off and just slide the new outer boot down the shaft. Then put the inner back on.

    You'll also need whatever tool the boot clamps need to fit them. Yes, the job is very messy. The split "quick boots" always leak after a bit.

    Yes, almost no one replaces boots these days. Chinese axles are cheap enough and (mostly) good enough that unit replacement is the common repair. It was a different story when the only new axle was the dealer at $700+ each.

    Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.
     
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  9. Kenny94945

    Kenny94945 Active Member

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    My vote, replace it with your complete parts car axle.
    But, do inspect that used axle for "damage" and re-grease it fully.
    If no budget, buy a new complete assembly.

    FWIW
    Yes, boot only replacement is rare these days.
    I understand boot only can be a difficult job with specialty tools involved.
    Also, I would be hesitant to use the "split" boot repair kits, although I understand in theory, the axle does not need to be removed to install a spilt boot.
    Lastly, there are kits that use an expander to slide over the axle without axle disassembly, yet I have no experience in their long term sealing properties.


    OP, what did you decide, how did it go?
     
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  10. priuslyfe

    priuslyfe Member

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    yeah. I feel like that's what I'll do. seems such a waste to throwaway a perfectly good (well 300K miles on it) CV boot though. Of course having a wrecked Prius in my backyard is pretty explanatory of my mindset.

    this youtuber says to replace the axle but is doing the video for those who want to replace the boot...seems very laborious vs. replacing the axle.

    [video]