Help with Front Suspension on 1998 QX4

[AlabamaDan]

Ok I know some of you may not consider a QX4 a true Infiniti, but I'm hoping y'all can help me. I have a 1998 QX4 4x4 with about 140,000 miles. It's been making a clicking sound alot when we turn right or left. My wife carried it by the dealership and they said that both front axles were broken and needed to be replaced.

They quoted me an extrodinary quote and after I caught my breath I said "I"ll have to think abotu that for a little bit." I carried it to another mechanic in town and (I didn't tell him anything) he said that my axles were broken too. Now, is this something extremely complicated to fix?

Help Please! Thanks in advance.

PS, Does anyone know where I can find a FSM for this vehicle?

[goody90q45]

FSM is at Phatg20.net

[AlabamaDan]

Thanks!

[maxnix]

Labor on 4 wheel drive models is very high, and once you have the manual you will see why. Were boots ever compromised? Lack of lubrication and water and dirt penetration are usually why CV joints fail.

[Q45tech]

You might call Ty at [T3] 404-794-7700 and get a quote for comparison the parts costs will be the same just $75/hr labor..........less than 3 hours from Bham 5 miles off I20.

We see lots of these after 100k.........failure to replace torn boots as soon as it occurs............reason why you have a 90 day oil change and inspection.

They [boots] must have failed years ago to get to this point.

What happens when you use LUX SUV off paved road...gravel/rock cuts.

[AlabamaDan]

I think I tore the boots hunting last year, but never got around to fixing them. Lesson learned.

[AlabamaDan]

So Dennis, you think this is too complicated for a novice like me?

[maxnix]

You have to disassemble the whole hub. Check the FSM and if you are tooled correctly you can proceed.

Personally, if I didn't have a lift, I would take it to T-3.