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CV joint: fix boot or replace axle?

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  #1  
Old 02-13-2012, 04:43 AM
biocpu's Avatar
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Default CV joint: fix boot or replace axle?

The outer CV boot of the passenger side got just ripped off (less than 20 miles ago..). Which choice would be better:

1) replace the boot and keep the factory axle (2003 2.7T 50k miles). The CV joint itself is good and not at all damaged. Parts cost $20. I haven't done this job before but heard it is a messy job and need a gear puller..
2) replace the whole axle with an OEM (~$100). Have just finished the DIY driver side.

The issue is whether the Audi axle (~10yr old, 50k miles on) is worth keeping, compared with a new OEM..

BTW, many many thanks for tips to replace the axle.
 
  #2  
Old 02-13-2012, 11:54 AM
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Well you'd have to remove the joint to replace the boot, so you might as well replace the joint with a new one. Given that, and the cost of a new CV joint, why not spend the same money (possible a little more) and just replace the axle. Significantly less work and comparable expenditure...
 
  #3  
Old 02-13-2012, 12:05 PM
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Originally Posted by biocpu
The outer CV boot of the passenger side got just ripped off (less than 20 miles ago..). Which choice would be better:

1) replace the boot and keep the factory axle (2003 2.7T 50k miles). The CV joint itself is good and not at all damaged. Parts cost $20. I haven't done this job before but heard it is a messy job and need a gear puller..
2) replace the whole axle with an OEM (~$100). Have just finished the DIY driver side.

The issue is whether the Audi axle (~10yr old, 50k miles on) is worth keeping, compared with a new OEM..

BTW, many many thanks for tips to replace the axle.
If the boot just ripped , just replace the boot! You are much better off with the factory German made axle components then going for low cost Chinese Crap. Ask me how i know , I have been burned by the Chinese crap several times on customers vehicles.
The outer c/v joints are available separately if needed.
You do not need a gear puller but i think a little challenging for someone that has not done it before.
 
  #4  
Old 02-13-2012, 01:00 PM
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You don't need a puller to do that. Just a BFH and some rags
 
  #5  
Old 02-13-2012, 02:34 PM
hartsoe1's Avatar
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Default I think I'd just replace the boot

Ive done several on B5 but not yet on my B6. but on the B5 only the bottom suspension bolt was necessary to be removed (not the top 'impossible' to break loose bolt) and with the steering in one direction the joint will slip out of the hub. then you can screw the big axle bolt back into the joint hole and the CV joint will push out by screwing bolt in. Clean it up, add new boot, wipe up all the hi temp grease, throw away greased up jeans and shirt, and off you go.
 

Last edited by hartsoe1; 02-13-2012 at 02:59 PM.
  #6  
Old 02-13-2012, 04:28 PM
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If you got time, just remove the axle and inspect the joint and bearings. If they look good with no signs of damage just clean them. And re-pack it with the correct CV joint grease. And slap on a new CV boot. Or replace just the outer axle part with a new one. If you ever plan on buying a replacement axle I would buy from Raxles. I have never ran into any issues from using them. Good luck on your decission.
 
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