CV joint seal problems and runner problem

[bp944]

As I was in the process of replacing my rear hubs, I figured I should probably take apart the cv joints to clean them. I came across some "small" problems. First, as I was removing the cv boot, the hard paint that aids in sealing the boot crumbled off of the axle rod. Can I just spray paint it or something similar to keep a good seal or do I have to buy a new one? The second, is that two runners in the cv joint are pitted. I know they need to be replaced but the bearings don't seem to bad and I was wondering how long they would last. Could I get another 300-500 miles out of them? I just need them to last until I can afford new ones. This car is starting to be a real pain in my a$$.



This looks a lot worse than it actually is.

[Slam]

Don't worry about the paint - you can rattle-can the shaft if you like, but no big deal.

Yes, that's as bad as it looks. Did you mark the direction of CV rotation before you disassembled? If you did, those chewed up CVs will go for many more miles if you reverse their direction. As you can see, they've worn in one direction/on one face. If all you need is 3-500 more miles, go ahead and repack them and reinstall them but ensure you reverse them. CVs give plenty of warning (usually) before they crater for good.