If the
CV Joints are worn, thus requiring an overhaul, consider all the possibilities before commencing with the job as it is possible to order for a complete rebuilt CV Boot and exchange it which would be so helpful. Some auto parts stores offer split-type replacement boots but these can be fitted without pulling the CV Boot off the vehicle, although it is recommended to pull the CV Boot off and unbolt the CV joint so that it can be cleaned, although dirty contaminants are likely to speedy up the wear of the joint. Similar operations are done to rear and front CV Boots. First of all, disconnect the CV Boot from the car and align in the vice, but idlers of the jaws you have to cover with the jackets of wood or rags. Slip the boot up over the shaft and open boot end, then unbolt and withdraw the boot clamps, pull the boot back from the inner CV joint, and slide the joint housing off, noting the relation of the tri-pod to the outer race. Centre punch the tri-pod and axleshaft for correct assembly, then, pry the ends of the stop-ring to unlock the retainer clip from the axleshaft. Using hammer and brass punch, drive the tri-pod joint from the CV Boot but ensure that the bearing surfaces and splines ought not to be spoilt. Wash out the old grease from the outer race and the tri-pod bearing assembly and if there are signs of excessive wear replace them. To reassemble the clamps and boot, one has to slide them over the axleshaft then wrap the splines with tape to avoid damage to the outer surface of the clamps and boot; a new stop-ring is added while aligning the tri-pod to the marks made previously. CV joint grease should then be applied on the tri-pod assembly, the joint housing and the boot, the boot is then installed and the pressure inside is balanced. This is done to either snug the clamps on the boot using the methods to fit the type of clamps in use. On the outer CV joint you must remove the clips of the CV joint boot, then using a soft face hammer hitting the edge of the housing of the CV joint will cause it to come off from the axleshaft and the CV joint outer boot can now be removed. Wash all the parts well and look for signs of wear which would necessitate a change of the whole CV Boot. To reassemble, fit a new sealing boot clamp as well as boot on the axleshaft and encase the splines with tape after which fit a new retainer bearing clip within the outer CV joint assembly and pack into it as much grease as is possible. Squash the splines of the CV joint and with the help of a mallet, press the CV joint onto the axleshaft, while ensuring that equal pressure is applied on the boot clamps then tighten the same and finally fit the CV Boot assembly.