My axle makes noise, (but boots are not torn). So I wonder if I can still reboot them. I've read where some say it's still possible, while many others say you're better off buying an entirely new axle unit.
I presume I'll finally have the answer when I go to remove and inspect both axles for "clunkiness" soon. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe the joints should move around freely without being forced to "clunk" to a different position. Also there should be very little, if any play with respect to torsion on the shaft of the axle.
If one or both of the inspections are found to be a failure, then a new axle unit will have to be ordered straight from the dealer.
And even if only one axle is bad, with regards to the mileage my car has, it would be a really good idea to reboot the (so far) good axle VERY SOON.

What are brands I can trust to purchase when I need the tool to reboot my axles? I'm looking for manual axle pliers. Not sure if the ones our sponsor carries will get the job done. And if they do, I'll simply buy them used.

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1998 Ford Escort ZX2 5 speed - 279,000 miles My Daily

1992 Mercedes 300D 2.5 202,000 - Pure junk
2000 Mercedes E320 Black - 136,000 miles - Needs repair

Don't forget to grease the screw and threads on the spring compressor.