Leaking CV joint and radiator - advice pls!

[Bitemaster]

Hi all

I got a service quote from a Toyota dealer for a leaking CV boot front passenger side for US$675 and a leaking radiator for US$665

I am stationed overseas so I can't do the repair myself and the truck is with my mom so I can't troubleshoot. There is only one Toyota dealer in town (bad luck).

The rig is a stock 2005 4.7 v8 with 170k miles and doesn't see offroad / have mods. I am price sensitive on the repairs and want to be sensible here...

Couple of questions
1) Better to buy an aftermarket CV axle vs repair /repack the old CV axle boot?
2) Better to buy a used OEM part or a new aftermarket part? I was looking at this - More Information for CARDONE 665235HD
3) I can source a Denso radiator for US$70 - is a radiator replacement a standard repair (i.e. any mechanic can do it)?

Thanks!
J



Thanks
J

 

[Comet]

I have a Denso in my 2001 (same engine). The transmission cooler Is built into the radiator. Any shade tree mechanic can do the replacement. My Denso was made in Taiwan, Toyota sources stuff from all over the globe. As for CV joints, Partsq is a web site that will hands down beat any dealership prices on OEM Toyota parts. CV joints are not the place to skimp And go aftermarket. Yes, Toyota CV joints will be more expensive but they will last fifteen times longer.

As far as putting the CV in, have the reputable mechanic look at the upper and lower ball joints, they will most likely have some age on them. Ball joints are not something you want to screw around with. They fail, the front wheel falls off. Then the “While you are in there” sets in. Well, I have the ball joints out, why don’t I just get new shocks, the brakes are half worn, I should just replace them.

Just do what’s necessary at this point.

EDIT: Welcome to MUD and by stationed I amassuming enlisted. Thank you for your service to the best darn country on the globe!!