[crreed67]

I got a busted CV Boot, I think that's what it is, on the front passenger side, outer one i believe. There's a picture. I have been reading and have come to the conclusion it's just as good to replace the whole axle instead of just the boot. Am I correct and if so does anyone have the correct part number and a good durable brand to recommend? 2006 Silverado 2500HD with 111,800 miles on it.

 

[crreed67]

The repair consists of removing the shaft either way, boot repair or shaft replacement. The work is easier just to replace the shaft - you don't have to do the boot repair. If you decide to just replace the boot in place, if you can find such a boot for your truck's axle, make sure there is no existing damage and no dirt or other contaminant inside the joint before proceeding, or you will soon be replacing the axle anyway. Boot replacement is a very dirty, messy job, at least that's my experience. If you can afford the new/rebuilt shaft, I wouldn't even consider boot replacement.

You're right. I just finished it and I put a whole axle on for 56.00. Wasn't too bad like you said. Kind of a no-brainer not to do just the boot.

 

[crreed67]

If you don't have the proper tools to put the boot clamps back on, its probably easier to just replace the whole half shaft.

Shaft replacement is not too bad, remove the outer nut from the shaft that runs through the hub, and then remove the 4+ bolts on the differential side. I don't remember if you have to pull one of the ball joints to get the shaft out or if it will move toward the front of the truck and slide out.

Yep, pretty easy. I didn't have to remove anything but the sway bar link to get it out out. Since I had it off I went ahead and put new sway bar links on both sides also. Really fast and easy. Lots of good help videos out there.