I was wondering if anyone has ever changed the CV joint boots on their Expedition, and if so, how difficult of a job was it? The inner boots on both sides of my vehicle are torn. Is this something that I should leave to a shop? I have tried to use a quick boot kit, but can not find the correct one for the Expedition.

Thanks,

Chris

1997 Expedition EB 4x4 W/LLS

 

On MY98 Ive had both my outer cv boots replaced at my mechanics shop. Here in NYC each side cost me $65, plus around $15 for the actual boots. If you have an air compressor with impact wrenches, high torque wrenches, air chisel, etc... I'm sure it is possible, just remeber that if you need to replace the outer boots,(not your case) you need to dissasemble the actual cv joint, in order to remove/install the outer boot. As far as the inner boots go, the hub, rotor, tie rod endlinks, caliper need to be removed from the spindle so that the cv axle can be freed. Then you need to remove the cv axle for the actual diff. housing in order to remove it from the vehicle, so that you can do the work in/on a vise/workbench. like I said I wouldn't have tackled it because of the tools required, and time frame. hope this helps.
BTW The quick boot kit which can be "pulled" over the cv joint was no where to be found when I was replacing my boots also. After calling about a dozen replacement part vendors, we just gave up and proceeded to remove the whole cv axle from the diff. housing, and used a regular non streching boot.

 

A New 1/2 Shaft is ~ 120... I've had a torn boot that I've been re-packing and sealing with Tape for a Year... got OLD... The procedure to replace the shaft isn't too bad (once you get the axle nut off)

 

Thanks for the help. I decided to just order the inner and outer boots, and replace the cv joint all at the same time, and most importantly...to have my mechanic do it!



--Chris

 

No problem, good luck. Also make sure you check the swaybar endlinks and other suspension/steering components while its at the mechanic. A look over the pads and rotors would be good idea too. I installed new pads when i had my boots done.(Should have went with ceramic pads, tooooo much brake dust!)

 

ceramic pads will heat and warp the rotor