Hey guys I just got a 02 RAM 1500 4x4 and the driver side cv axle boot is ripped. Can you just get a new boot and repack it with grease or do you have to replace the whole axle? If I keep it on the road only and clean how quick to I have to worry about repalcing it? Thanks

 

if you just noticed it then yes you can repack the CV with grease and put a new boot on it. i wouldnt drive it any longer than you have to with a torn CV boot.

 

I debated this for a while when I discovered my CV boot was ripped. I chose to change the whole axle for two reasons.

1-I have a feeling it was ripped for a while. Who knows how much crud got in there and what damage was already done

2-A boot kit was $30, a bran new axle was $55. My axle already had 135000 miles on it and you have to take the old one off to change the boot anyway...might as well just put a new axle in. For $25 extra, it was worth the peice of mind.

But to answer your question, yes...you can just replace the boot.
I was able to find my axle very cheap at the local parts store, most people I've talked to pay an average of $60-$80 for a new axle. A rebuilt axle is also an option at some parts stores.

 

Thanks guys, I just looked up the parts on autozone and napa. I would have never thought they would have been so cheap. Hell my four wheeler axles are $185.00 stock and $350.00 for aftermarket. Yeah I will just go ahead and replace the whole axle. Do the part store axles hold up?? I have a 6" suspenion lift and 37's??? Will I need any special tools except for a ball joint fork and the normal tools??

 

you'll need a deep socket big enough for the axle nut (34 mm I think, you can use a standard equivalent)
I'd use a pitman arm puller rather than a fork, it'll save your ball joint boot.
If you have a 6" lift and 37's you better get good at changing out CV shafts! lol

 

No special tools required...just a good pry bar and some imagination to pry that CV shaft off your stub shaft.