Replace CV Boots with OEM or do complete NAPA?

[wngrog]

I just did some searching bit didn't see answer.


My inner CV boots have holes in them. Outers look good.

Truck has 137,000 miles on it.

So, do I replace just the inner CV boots with OEM parts? Replace both inner and outer with OEM boots while its all apart?

Replace the entire thing with NAPA lifetime CVs

Also, any other preventive maintenance that needs to be done while that far into the front end?

 

[spressomon]

Don't go NAPA or any other non-OEM CV assembly...plenty of short life/war stories including my own direct experiences with same.

Unless, that is, you're just beg'n for an exercise in futility

Besides hub grease, etc., I suggest checking the front diff support bushings...while you're there.

 

[wngrog]

Do I replace the non leaking non cracked boots while its all apart?

 

[2000UZJ]

The Napa Joints are a tripod joint. They have a lesser range of articulation (26*) so they won't hold up wheeling, or with any extended shocks, 3 bearings isn't enough to keep the 100 moving on the trail. The quality of the steel is also questionable. The OEM CV Joint is a Razeppa joint, which can have up to 50* of articulation, and the steel is a much harder compound. They are also smoother since they have 6 bearings vs 3.

It's quite a bit of labor getting the CV out, I would order a OEM boot kit and reboot both ends while your in their. Make sure the side you are working on is higher, the diff oil will come out if the vehicle is level. Make sure you inspect the bearings, race, and cage if there is debris inside.

 

[wngrog]

The Napa Joints are a tripod joint. They have a lesser range of articulation (26*) so they won't hold up wheeling, or with any extended shocks, 3 bearings isn't enough to keep the 100 moving on the trail. The quality of the steel is also questionable. The OEM CV Joint is a Razeppa joint, which can have up to 50* of articulation, and the steel is a much harder compound. They are also smoother since they have 6 bearings vs 3.

It's quite a bit of labor getting the CV out, I would order a OEM boot kit and reboot both ends while your in their. Make sure the side you are working on is higher, the diff oil will come out if the vehicle is level. Make sure you inspect the bearings, race, and cage if there is debris inside.

Thanks for typing that up. Great info.

Why not just drain diff fluid and refill after the procedure?

 

[2000UZJ]

Thanks for typing that up. Great info. Why not just drain diff fluid and refill after the procedure?

You certainly could while your in there. The drain plug is a 10mm Allen bolt. You do need to remove the plastic skid plate to access the plug. You can also stuff a rag in there to keep the oil from spilling out if you can't tilt the vehicle on the jack stands.