Busted Axle Boot- How long can I drive on it - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

bpeters2 · #1 04-02-2009, 10:19 PM

I just noticed that my right rear outer axle boot seems to have developed a substantial leak. I've done some research on previous threads and it looks like I should probably replace the axle since the joint has likely been contaminated. Cash and time are not abundant right now....since I'm going to be replacing the axle anyway, is there any harm in continuing to drive the car. I have a few tips planned for the next few months (1000 miles total). Is there any chance the bearings will hold up? What are the odds of this issue leaving me stranded with a breakdown somewhere, or is it likely to just start making noise etc. Can I do any more damage?? Thanks

TylerH860 · #2 04-02-2009, 10:24 PM

Is it the inner or outer one?

I think winmutt bought really cheap ones at autozone, and have lasted so far.

aaa · #3 04-02-2009, 10:42 PM

Well examine it closer first before you decide to trash it (driving on it = trashing).

But yeah, you can drive on it for quite a while. I think it'll start making noise after a few thousand miles... mine had no problems and no noise when I threw it away after 1000.

bpeters2 · #4 04-02-2009, 10:49 PM

Its an outer boot...

ichbineinekrous · #5 04-02-2009, 11:00 PM

You can buy a split boot for it, it'll help keep the water and dirt out of the joint at least, and possibly buy you a little time. I've had one on my 85 for about a year and a half. The boot comes with tiny screws that keep the two halves together, costs about $10 and takes 15 minutes to install.

bpeters2 · #6 04-02-2009, 11:14 PM

what do you fill the split boot with?

Jeremy5848 · #7 04-02-2009, 11:17 PM

Duct tape also works to keep at least some of the dirt out. And it is inexpensive. I took my '85 on a 1500 mile trip with a split boot. It made some scary noises but got the job done. The people at CVJ (axle rebuilders in Denver) told me that you can drive for many miles before the joint will actually start to come apart.

If you can squirt some grease into the CV joint (keep the old split boot on) and wrap duct tape or something around it to keep it partially enclosed, you'll be OK for a thousand miles or more. You can buy CV joint grease at auto parts stores. In a pinch, any kind of grease will work.

Jeremy

Diesel911 · #8 04-03-2009, 12:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ichbineinekrous

You can buy a split boot for it, it'll help keep the water and dirt out of the joint at least, and possibly buy you a little time. I've had one on my 85 for about a year and a half. The boot comes with tiny screws that keep the two halves together, costs about $10 and takes 15 minutes to install.

Where did you get the Split Boot from and do you have a part number?

shadetreemechan · #9 04-03-2009, 08:22 AM

I prefer saran wrap and then duct tape. But then again I am somewhat snobbish about my benz parts.

LNGfish · #10 04-03-2009, 08:46 AM

I used a split boot on a Buick. The kit came with some black grease. I consider it a permanent fix. U need real tiny hands to put the screws in but they work great.

vstech · #11 04-03-2009, 08:50 AM

it was advance auto parts that winmutt got the axle from, and if you have a commercial account... or if you apply for one... you will only pay 49.00 for the entire axle...

E150GT · #12 04-03-2009, 08:59 AM

I drove with a bad boot for 3 years. It creaked a little in the winter, but it never failed. I eventually replaced it.

muleears · #13 04-03-2009, 09:14 AM

I've got a bad outer boot also on the 124. I have at least 8K mi. on it and no noise so far. The replacement is standing in the corner waiting for this one to start making noise.

ichbineinekrous · #14 04-03-2009, 11:28 AM

I don't have a part number, no. Just went into McAutoparts and asked about a new CV boot for my 85 mercedes. The split boot was what he came back with. And yes I seem to remember it coming with a tube of grease.

I would encourage replacing the whole joint also, especially if you can really get them that cheaply, but I understand not having the time to get into it too. I've read the axle replacement procedure, sounds like an all day project for a first timer.

Diesel911 · #15 04-03-2009, 02:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ichbineinekrous

I don't have a part number, no. Just went into McAutoparts and asked about a new CV boot for my 85 mercedes. The split boot was what he came back with. And yes I seem to remember it coming with a tube of grease.

I would encourage replacing the whole joint also, especially if you can really get them that cheaply, but I understand not having the time to get into it too. I've read the axle replacement procedure, sounds like an all day project for a first timer.

Darn, you are the only one I have read that has actually found a split boot that fits.
The McParts are not the same in each state and since it appears that there are more Diesel Cars on Ease of the Miss. River it may be they also sock their stores differantly.
I looked for Split boots and have never found them. Even an Ebay Seller who specializes in boots could not get any from his supplier.
I was unable to give him dimensions to go by as the Axles were not going to be removed from my Car until I knew I had replacements.
I ended up exchanging the Axles so I was not able to get demensions.

This was also before I saw the U-Tube vid of that guy using the ATF Funnel to install the boots.