CV Drive axle question:

[speeder]

I wanted to replace the boots on some drive axles for my old Mercedes and now I’ve stepped into a little bit of quicksand…I assumed that they would come apart with the release of a circlip inside the boot like most others but no dice. The “can” at one end needs to be opened and the boot kit supplies a new one. I can figure out how to open the old can, (cutting tool), but I have no idea what type of tool crimps the new one on. It’s sort of like the bezel on a gauge but waaaay stronger.

Anyone know? Is this something that a regular automotive machine shop could do?? The second photo shows one installed previously and crimped on properly. TIA as always.

[A930Rocket]

Just a guess, but could you find a pipe or two steel plates with semi circles, that the can and axle would just fit in and hammer the edge over?

It would be nice to experiment with different size and weight hammers, and possibly heating the metal to perfect your process.

Edit. I was looking at the picture of the gold and black, thinking the black was heavier metal that you could beat the sheet metal portion against. But looking at the first picture, I guess they’re both sheet metal.

[A930Rocket]

From an eBay seller of MB axles: There may be some hammer marks on the can which occurs during removal and re-installation of the can.

https://ebay.us/m/4qOH0O

[Arizona_928]

Crimp it on or buy a cv boot cone and lube the sob over all the metal.

[juanbenae]

Spit balling here, what about an oil filter wrench?

[speeder]

Originally Posted by A930Rocket

Just a guess, but could you find a pipe or two steel plates with semi circles, that the can and axle would just fit in and hammer the edge over?

It would be nice to experiment with different size and weight hammers, and possibly heating the metal to perfect your process.

Edit. I was looking at the picture of the gold and black, thinking the black was heavier metal that you could beat the sheet metal portion against. But looking at the first picture, I guess they’re both sheet metal.

You are actually correct on both counts, the black, (original), can is heavier than the replacement one they give you. I'm planning on re-using it but of course I need to use the new cap for it.

I've also seen the Ebay listing where the guy talks about hammer marks, really he sounds like a hack. You can always hammer and chisel the cap on so that it seals but I'd much rather have it properly crimped.

[Arizona_928]