W126 axles
 

Where have all the lifetime-guaranteed axles for about $100 gone?
I will be in need of a pair of axles for my '82 300SD.
I remember seeing them available for under $100 per side, but now I cannot find any. Maybe I am looking in the wrong category.

On a related note--What should I expect to pay to have my present axles R&R and new CV Boots? My present axles are quiet, and the boots are cracked but not leaking.

If the car has original axle shafts (27years old) & the boots are still intact...why replace them? Are they noisy?

Takes 2.5-3 hrs to replace them.

Not noisy; not leaking, but DEEPLY cracked.
Its PM, as I know once the boots crack, and the lubricant leaks out, they have a very limited life.

If 3 hours to replace them, can I expect an indy shop to charge about $300-400 for both, or per side?

I bought my car with one torn axle boot. I drove it for three years no problems. I replaced it recently just because. That was one tough axle.

If there's no problem with the axle, can't you put a new boot on it and pack it up with some fresh grease?

Get a split-boot and you won't have to take off any more than a tire. Sure split boots aren't as good as one piece boots, but as long as you are meticulous gluing them (and allowing the glue to cure) they will last a couple of years or more.

I don't know if you can get one for this car, but hunt around. It will save you some time and money.

Just because they are cracked does not mean they leak.

I've owned many that had significant cracks, and I've only had had one leak.

Wait 'till they leak, then replace with another used.

Jim