MB 4matic inner boot..how to install?

[ps2cho]

I'm struggling installing this MB boot kit:





I cannot seem to get the inner boot (with the integrated metal shell) over the inner cup. Has anybody here successfully installed these and can let me know how they got it over?

This is for my 2008 E350 4matic.

[lsmalley]

https://mbworld.org/forums/e-class-w211/605582-4-matic-front-cv-boots-replacement-pictorial.html

[Hirnbeiss]

Looks like there is also a replacement boot without the metal shell.
https://mbworld.org/forums/c-class-w204/634884-diy-front-inner-passenger-side-cv-boot-replacement.html

[ps2cho]

I've studied that link many times, and it mentions mushrooming the boot, but it still won't fit on the cup. It ALMOST looks like the old metal shell is still attached, but I tried hitting it with a screwdriver and hammer, but no movement and I dont want to damage it without knowing for sure.

I dont know if the old metal shell is just "fused" to the cup and its incredibly stubborn to remove or something?

Here's a closer look at what I am dealing with:


I got the boot kit directly from EPC for the part #...

[lsmalley]

Originally Posted by ps2cho

I've studied that link many times, and it mentions mushrooming the boot, but it still won't fit on the cup. It ALMOST looks like the old metal shell is still attached, but I tried hitting it with a screwdriver and hammer, but no movement and I dont want to damage it without knowing for sure.

I dont know if the old metal shell is just "fused" to the cup and its incredibly stubborn to remove or something?

Here's a closer look at what I am dealing with:


I got the boot kit directly from EPC for the part #...

Measure the diameter of this and the diameter of the boot with metal sleeve. Or just remove the metal sleeve from the boot and put it on over. The link above does not show the boot has a metal sleeve on.

[ps2cho]

The diameter of the initial edge is too small for the metal sleeve on the new boot. It must go on further to ensure it won’t fall off.

[lsmalley]

Originally Posted by ps2cho

The diameter of the initial edge is too small for the metal sleeve on the new boot. It must go on further to ensure it won’t fall off.

Take off the metal sleeve and install the rubber boot over the joint. Use a regular cv clamp like the one shown in the picture. This reminds me of how I ruined 2 sets of 400E caliper dust boots trying to fit the damn thing over the base of the caliper piston.

[ps2cho]

I’m not destroying the factory boot until that’s the last resort. The factory sleeve may be glued on, I’m not sure.

[lsmalley]

Ok, yeah I wasn't sure if you could just remove the metal sleeve or not as the one in the picture above seems like the sleeve was either removed or it didn't come with one.

[Merkey]

Just got off the phone with him....

Looks to me like the original joint boot had the metal ring, and its still on the inner pot. Looks to me like they roll formed the clamp onto the pot after they fitted it to seal in the grease.
The black paint on it is a good clue.
Needs to be cut off.
Told him to measure the overall inner boot clamp, and then the joint.
They should be close to the same diameter.
If not, I'd bet the original clamp is still on there!

[ps2cho]

Got it...Just didn't understand the entire piece was one, not just a clamp. This should allow future readers to understand how it comes off. I think trying to accomplish this ON the car would be very difficult. The 3" exhaust clamp wrapped around the receiver worked as good as the factory tool for removal FYI.

[Merkey]

[lsmalley]

Well done! Now just get the high temps down in the 124 and you're good to go.