replacement cv shaft or just boot

[grandprix97gtp]

hello i have a 1997 grand prix gtp two door. i recently realized that the passenger side cv boot strap that holds it tight was off and the grease is everywhere. the car has about 125,000 miles and i was wondering if i could buy an aftermarket boot or if i should go ahead and replace the whole shaft.. it does make very little vibration on acceleration but doesnt feel really sloppy when u get it in the air... any suggestions always appreciated. i was curiouse if u think i would be ahead money wise to replace the boot or the whole shaft ty

[richtazz]

I would replace the whole shaft. There is a good chance that the joint is damaged from the boot being gone, and a boot could be a waste of time. Boots cost about $15, a whole shaft about $65, and it takes longer to clean everything and replace just a boot than it does to replace the entire shaft. Most replacement shafts come with a lifetime warranty too, so I'd go with the whole shaft replacement if it were me. If you do the job yourself, use a good torque wrench, and leave the impact tools on the bench.

[grandprix97gtp]

thanks for the advice. i think as soon as i get my electrical issue figured ot im goin to go ahead and replace the whole shaft and do it myself. i appreciate you replying ty'