I am changing the inner CV arm boots on my 95 Tracker. I decided to get the real boots and not the quick boots. I have got the CV arm disconnected from the axle, but I cannot figure out how to get the Boot on over the axle connecting bearing. do I need to get it over this, or can it be removed?
Here's what you do:
(Edit: added a diagram that I found. The spring retaining ring is identified in red as also is the circlip)
There is a spring retaining ring around the inside edge of the cup holding the differential side joint in place. The inside differential cup is the one that slides in and out. If you feel around the inside of the cup's lip, you'll feel it. Feel around the entire edge of the cup until you find the gap. Use a small screwdriver to work the spring retaining ring (it has a round cross-section) out of the slot. Once the ring is removed, the joint will pull out of the housing gooey grease and all.
On the inside end of the joint at the end of the axle shaft, you'll find another spring clip - the kind with the looped ends with holes (a Circlip). Use a Circlip removal tool (found at an auto parts store -- DON"T GET THE CHEAP ONE!) to expand and remove the circlip. The inner joint will slide out and then the inner boot (and outer boot for that matter!) can slide off the half-shaft.
If you are doing this while under the car (BE CAREFUL!) watch that you don't get contaminants in the grease. If you decide to remove the grease (and it is not contaminated), wipe as much as you can off before adding new grease. If you try to clean all the grease out, try to blow it out with air, then rinse it with brake cleaner until it is all gone then blow it out again. Don't use a cleaning solvent that leaves a residue. That will cause the grease to be contaminated and then bad things allegedly will happen! Use brake cleaner only!
The best way to to this job is on the bench, not under the vehicle. Of course, that will require a lot more disassembly......
