Question about CV Half Shaft Assembly

[darylzero]

If you have a torn inner or outer CV boot is it common practice to just replace the whole half shaft assembly?

I can understand to change it if you have been driving with it torn for a while, but what if the boot just has a deep crack and hasn't split yet?

Seems like since you can get one for like $70 it's easier to just replace.

Thanks

[OriginalWheelman]

You can replace just the boot. If dirt or grit got into it, the bearing will wear sooner. Changing just the boot is a gamble. Up to you if you want to risk it. If the boot is worn out, the bearing probably isn't too far behind, but I have seen people change boots and get away with it. If you plan to keep the car, I would just change the shaft. If you're just buying time, the boot might work out for you. Generally yes, it is standard practice to just replace it.

[darylzero]

Thanks for the reply OW.

Mine has a crack in the boot that I noticed while changing the oil. The boot hasn't split yet, just a matter of time though.

What's crazy is I looked at a nissan dealer website that usually has good prices and it cost $450 there. Or I can go to RockAuto.com and find a new CARDONE select Constant Velocity Drive Axle for $70.

If you change one side should you change the other side as well?

[OriginalWheelman]

Eh. I wouldn't bother. I'd keep an eye on it.

[Desert Rat]

Yes, it's easier to just swap the whole axle if they're available. Trouble is some of the older ones aren't available anymore. Z31 halfshafts, for instance, can no longer be found. They're all gone from the parts chains and you're stuck rebuilding. And only the outer boots are available.on those as well.

[OriginalWheelman]

I once wrapped an torn boot on my Ford Escort with plastic bags and duct tape. About 2k miles later my axle exploded. All I did was start trapping water inside it.

[Dattebayo]

Hey, depending on the age/type of car, replacing that oil seal the end plugs into isn't a bad idea either...

[darylzero]

Hey, depending on the age/type of car, replacing that oil seal the end plugs into isn't a bad idea either...

It's a 2009 Rogue. What is the oil seal?

[Dattebayo]

Does any part of that half-shaft plug into a gear box of some kind? Maybe a crankcase?

I'm not sure about the configuration of the Rogue...

[Dattebayo]

I sort-of found it in this post, if the half-shaft is in the front, there's possibly a seal where the shaft plugs into the transfer case: nissan-rogue-vibrations-my-findings-t57 ... l#p6455428

Edit: Maybe I'm just showing my age and it doesn't exist, I can't find any mention of one, so nevermind....

[OriginalWheelman]

If it helps, I knwo what you're talking about. The heavy O-ring on the splined part of the shaft.

[OriginalWheelman]