I am replacing a torn CVboot and just tearing up my good condition boot. The 12 bolts holding the axle in place are in such a horrible position. I managed to remove the axle no problem but my good boot shows cracks developing from me removing the bolts!
Anyone have any tips?

 

Easy, replace both boots when you do the axles. If you have the damn thing out, why wouldn't you?

 

Because I only ordered one! Lesson learned.

 

Those bolts are triple-square too - I recommend switching to grade 12, 6mm allen head bolts so you don't have to deal with the irritation of them again.

Oh, and lock-titeing those bolts is (IMO) a good idea although you'll find loads of debate on that subject in the archives.

 

Yup, you will learn that when you do a job on these cars, you do all the "while you have it apart" items.

 

Thread lock with lock-tight blue. Very importent to get any grease out of the threads before use put the bolts in. This requires a Qtip, brake cleaner and some time.

 

To keep from ripping the boots, take a zip tie large enough to wrap around the center ridge of the rubber that is close to the hub. Tighten the zip tie enough to compress it and pull the bolts out with ease. Just did this and it works like a charm, and no torn boots.

 

"Very importent to get any grease out of the threads before use put the bolts in. This requires a Qtip, brake cleaner and some time."

Eeezactamundo...;] Bruce