Input on replacing outside axle boot.....?

[Wess McCoy]

While detailing an 97 850CI
I came across grease on the inside of left rear wheel.
On closer inspection I found a cut in the outside boot.
My question is how difficult is the replacement, or is it easier to just replace the whole shaft with a new or rebuilt shaft.

With the wheel off during inspection, I noticed it had a cover on the outside of the rotor. I'm guessing that covers an axle nut, and that the axle has to be removed from the differential then pulled out of the disc assbly. If so how difficult is that....? Can it be done in my garage with out special tools.....?

I'm trying to minimize cost, but don't really want to go thru the process of disassembling the joint, removing old boot, and trying to get the clamps back on and properly sealed, thus replacing the whole shaft with a rebuilt.....?

Any experience with this process would be greatly appreciated.

aloha
wess

[Jeron]

If it has been cut for a long time you may need to have the joint rebuilt.

I'm not recommending it, but they do make split boots that can be put on without disassembling anything. I consider that a temporary fix.

There are a few threads in E36 forum that may help. Look for threads involving replacing the diff seals and threads about rear axle bearings.

When I have had CV boots replaced on my past front wheel drive cars I found a local axle rebuilding shop and paid them to do the job. I dont think I would take my Bimmer to them though but I would take the axle for them to rebuild instead of going through a parts house or mechanic middleman.

It isn't a complicated job but I would say it is tough and might be worth paying for.

[Wess McCoy]

Jeron,
I have found the complete part online for approx $380+ shipping, and have investigated with a Parts shop owner.
He has a rebuilder who will do the work for $60.....

Looked at Wayne's page on 3 series replacements, and other than dropping the 850 exhaust looks to be close to the same.
Other than the socket size for the outside axle nut and the 12 point 8mm socket,
and possible axle puller I have all the tools....

I'm doing this project for a friend and don't a have a problem tackling the job, just waiting to hear back from him, on yey or nay.....

thanX for the input
wess

[Wess McCoy]

I was a little disappointed a couldn't find the part on Pelican parts.
I've had really good luck in the past and the delivery is quick.....or if I want it faster I have gone to the store.....

wess

[Jeron]

$60 is a good price. Dont buy a new part it is cheaper to have them replace the knuckle on yours, if it came to that.

Good luck let us know how it goes.

[Jeron]

Oh, I think I was confused. Its $60 labor for the job and $380 for the new axle.

I though it was $60 to have the axle rebuilt and you were removing and replacing it yourself.

It looks like the part number is 33211226933 and it is too much (over 500) at Pelican probably because nobody buys them.

I would not put a new axle in. They last forever and are rebuildable if you damage a knuckle by letting it go dry. It looks like the rebuild kits are $75 for each end. I'm not sure, but an axle shop might be able to use generic parts.

[Wess McCoy]

Jeron
"I though it was $60 to have the axle rebuilt and you were removing and replacing it yourself."

That's pull it myself and $60 to rebuild....If the knucle is still good.


I couldn't find the part when looking but will try the part number you provided and check it out.....

I'm still inclined to do it myself......the car is due to be sold as soon as I'm done......
But after looking at what they are asking and getting for 97 850CI's I'm a little disappointed......they are really a great car for the right 850 Bimmer enthusiast.....


thanX again
wess

[Wess McCoy]

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