Halfshafts

[rusted]

So the outer boot on the driver halfshaft is torn. It's [AFAIK] original.

(I replaced the px side halfshaft last year when the retaining clip on the cent section broke; allowing it to slide out so the boot was the sole thing holding it in.)

My dilemma is: do I lay down $70 for a new halfshaft again, or just get a new boot. The shaft is not noisy, but I have noticed some subtle lumpiness while coasting down the driveway; the wheel will wiggle back and forth a few degrees as the halfshaft turns. There's nothing notable at speed.

Assuming I do buy just a boot; any recommendations? Do I use a split/aka repair boot; or pull the hub nut etc and use a regular one?

Trash Auto seems to have Dorman boots 614-001/614-002; then says they are not in stock and don't fit! I wrote Dorman to ask them.

They have the GSP NCV36045 halfshaft ....

[stanlam]

Drop the cash and get a halfshaft w/lifetime at the zone. If a boot goes bad ,dry rot , or tearing the pull it out and replace. well worth the headache IMO.

[Tony]

Yea, its a lot easier and cheaper in the long run to replace the whole axle instead of just the boot.

[rusted]

Originally Posted by Tony

Yea, its a lot easier and cheaper in the long run to replace the whole axle instead of just the boot.

My reluctance is partially because I assume we somehow damaged the right side output seal when we did that one; I now have a leak there.

[We also snapped off the breaker bar on the axle nut removal. The good news there is Home Depot honestly honors their warranty. No forms, no "I need a receipt" -- I showed up with the two pieces, the Returns person said "Go get a new one"; we did and she waved up out the door.]

[Tony]

Thats why I always replace both axle shafts at the same time. Just a habit I have always had

[rusted]

With my luck; I'd now have 2 leaky seals.....

[FrodoGT]

You can replace those ya know... theyre cheap, and come out with a screwdriver and go in with light pressure.