PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post - CV "click" and duct tape "trick" ( one mans struggle with cv joints )

Jeremy5848 · #15 07-07-2006, 08:49 PM

Having done the duct tape thing in non-ideal circumstances (parking lot of Kragen Auto in Winnemucca, Nevada), I would not recommend the "put it in Drive" method. It would be too easy for you to get caught in the tape and end up with your arm wrapped around the axle. I did the "turn the wheel by hand" trick and it worked well.

If you use hose clamps or even cable ties, be sure that you use two at each location with the "heads" at opposite sides of the axle, so the weight is balanced. Out of balance axles can cause damage to expensive bearings.

I understand that the original M-B lubricant is an oil but the auto parts stores sell a CV lubricant that is a high-temp grease. You squeeze it into the joint and seal it up. It gradually melts the stickum on the duct tape and you have to do it again. The tool handle coating sounds like a good idea but I prefer to replace the axles with rebuilt ones that have new boots and be done with it for another twenty years. I just replaced mine for a total cost of a little over $300 and you can do it for less if you don't worry about the quality of the rebuilt axles.

Jeremy