Help needed evaluating this CV joint

[Tommy Z]

Happy Sunday PP. Pulled the axle on my 79' SC to replace a torn boot and was surprised at how dry it was considering when I found the tear. This is only the second time I have opened one of these up and I think I'm seeing some damage inside the cage where the bearing have worn divots in the frame. Please take a look at the photos and share if you think the joint should just be replaced or it's not that bad and I can re-pack it, put the new boot on and re-install. Many Thanks!

[911obgyn]

Do the balls have any galling? Can you feel a divot? I would re grease both CV joints rotate the axle with new boots and drive it.
Mark and recheck tourque after 100 miles.

[thor66]

agreed

[Tommy Z]

The balls themselves feel fine as do the groves for the most part. The only part that I'm really wondering about are these areas that have little divots where the ball rest on the cage.

[Trackrash]

I would not worry about the cage. As long as there is no galling on the balls you are good to go.

It is common practice to re-install your CVs in the opposite direction of rotation so they wear on new surfaces.

[Tommy Z]

Thanks Trackrash. Although the other boot is fairly new I opened up that joint as well for re-packing so I'll switch them. I'm guessing if once they are greased, if movement feels smooth I can re-install? At least this time I have the moon clips and Schnoor washers!

[911obgyn]

And longer bolts!?
While you have the greasy mess might do the other side too, just for peace of mind.

[Tommy Z]

Dr. Yes, I ordered the longer bolts as well. I'll be doing both joints on the axle and then eventually both on the other when one tears. I'm just going to make point of inspecting these a little more frequently. Does anyone know if the torque settings change because of the Schnoor washers and moon clips? Before anyone yells at me, I'm sure if I do an extended search I can find threads about it but I figured I would throw it out there while were talking about it. Thanks!