'79 rear axle boot

Rupesy · Rupesy's Garage

I just got doing this today and the original reason was a torn boot, however, I think I am going to do the other side as well. It is amazing how much new grease goes in from the kit vs what I took out (which wasn't much). I'm sure these were never done before. Job wasn't too bad. Made one mistake and it got real messy. Anyway, here are some pics:

torn boot:

using an impact wrench made it easy to remove:

dropped from the car

removal of retaining ring

Getting ready to clean

all clean

new gasket

getting ready to grease up

greased up

all done

garylewa · garylewa's Garage

Good work man; I just changed my boots in December

MPDano · MPDano's Garage

After you put them back on and put about 100 miles on them. Report back on the Boot Clamp. I couldn't keep mine on and it kept popping off. This is on my Euro that I have been driving now for almost a year.

Rupesy · Rupesy's Garage

I'm glad you said that about popping off. The large boot diameter was really small compared to the shaft diameter. I'm not sure what they made it so small and thin. The clamp that comes with it does not clamp it tight enough and the old ones are just barely enough. I ended up re-using the old clamps and cutting the two new ones and used them as shims under the old clamps to get them tight. I'm still a little worried they will pop off. I will definitely be checking them out after a few miles. Did you do anything to correct the issue??

MPDano · MPDano's Garage

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rupesy

I'm glad you said that about popping off. The large boot diameter was really small compared to the shaft diameter. I'm not sure what they made it so small and thin. The clamp that comes with it does not clamp it tight enough and the old ones are just barely enough. I ended up re-using the old clamps and cutting the two new ones and used them as shims under the old clamps to get them tight. I'm still a little worried they will pop off. I will definitely be checking them out after a few miles. Did you do anything to correct the issue??

No fix as of yet. I kinda said "fuhk it and went on to other stuff." I also think the Boot that comes in those kits don't seem to fit correct either. The large end seems too tight, which it seems like it stretches too much. That is why, I will most likely buy one already Rebuilt. Just not there yet.

rjm65 · 05-22-2011, 09:53 AM

I had the same problem on my '79, purchased some universal boot clamps from NAPA and all has been well since. Here's a generic shot of the clamp style:

Rupesy · Rupesy's Garage

did you have to buy a special crimp tool for that clamp?

Rupesy · Rupesy's Garage

Found a link with a real good write up and pics on changing the boot:

Rear Axle Boot Replacement Complete - here's the pics - Rennlist Discussion Forums

lots of other stuff here too....

MPDano · MPDano's Garage

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rupesy

did you have to buy a special crimp tool for that clamp?

Pretty sure you just use some Chanel Locks or some Pliers. Used this kind of clamp on my TB Tensioner Boot. Gotta look into these.

rjm65 · 05-22-2011, 03:28 PM

CV joint pliers, can usually be found at your local auto parts store for $15 or even less on Ebay if you're in no rush. They make a nice crimp by squeezing in the bands of the clamp under the flat raised portion.

You probably could work something with regular pliers, but the tool is so cheap it's not worth the struggle with regular pliers.

Mrmerlin · 05-22-2011, 04:10 PM

Rupse FWIW there is a certain direction that the outer portion of the CV unit must be positioned see the WSM for further info the scribe line is a clue for orientation

por917 · por917's Garage

I had to get that type of crimp clamp as well, the suppled clamps that came with the kit just would not go tight enough. I did have to go to a auto parts store to get a cv plier tool to crimp the clamps. 500 miles and going and there nice and tight.

Rupesy · Rupesy's Garage

Mrmerlin,

You are correct. You probably noticed that from the one pic. I believe I took the pic before I noticed that and had to disassemble one side. It was a real pain since I had already lubed it up. The final pic shows the correct orientation. Probably should of read some direction first, but that's never been my style (unfortunately LOL).