Called CVJ.

They explained that they run across this from time to time - where a boot won't pop back. It's because they are at 5000 feet and I'm at 300. The pressure inside the sealed boot is lower than the pressure at sea level - just enough to keep it 'puckered'.

Solution was to unclip the small end of the boot snd let air in - and it definitely was under negative pressure, air wooshed right in and the boot popped back into place.

I re-clamped it with a MB OE axle clamp I happened to have, and now all is well.

CVJ confirmed doing this would not void my warranty since I spoke with them first, and they offered to replace the axle at no charge if I would rather.

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'85 300D, 'Lance',250k, ... winter beater (100k on franken-Frybrid 3 Valve Kit)
'82 300D, 'Tex', 228k body / 170k engine ... summer car
'83 300TD Cali Wagon 210k, wife's car