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CV joint boot: replacement and selection

When and why CV joint boot needs replacement

The CV joint boot has no specified service life. Component is most often replaced after mechanical and abrasive damage. For example, cracks can appear on it. Also, a new boot is installed at every CV joint replacement.

Boot defects are dependent on its location. This car part is in constant contact with dirt, water and sand, as a result it gets deteriorated gradually because of abrasion. Consider also that outer boots get compressed and stretched more often, so they wear out quicker than the inner ones.

Faulty components disturb the CV joint operation. The main sign of a unit defect is a special sound (crackling or clicking) which is heard at maneuvering.

It is recommended to replace dust boots as a set - outer and inner. The procedure is performed at a service station. Specialists will also inspect the CV joint itself and offer its replacement in case of damage. Moreover, when installing the dust boot a special grease should be applied to the CV joint (often it is included into the kit). You should clean the unit from dirt beforehand. Boots are fastened with clamps to achieve air-tightness.

How to select CV joint boots

There are boots both for outer CV joints and inner ones. These items are often sold as a kit. Parts made for the outer CV joint are usually smaller.

CV joint boots are made of polyurethane, rubber, thermoplastics. The latter material is more resistant to damages. Components can be solid or consist of two pieces connected with a seam. The advantage of the first ones is reliability because the seam where two pieces are connected is usually a vulnerable point of the component.

High-quality driveshaft boot kits are offered by the following brands: Febi Bilstein, Vaico, Spidan. Often clamps and grease are included into the kit together with boots themselves. The outer boot can be sold together with the axle bolt, and the inner one - with snap rings and their bolts.

Boots are selected according to modifications of the exact model and brand, car body type and also production year. According to it the devices differ by sizes (diameter, height) and design. Boots for the inner CV joint can have different quantity of snap rings.