KZN185W

iTrader: (1)

Hi,

I found two writeups on how to replace the CV boot and/or axle of a 3rd gen 4Runner and it got me confused on which procedure to follow when the time comes for me to replace the cv boots again.

One is on 4x4wire - www.4x4wire.com/toyota/maintenance/cv_axle/

while the other one is for an ADD-equipped Tacoma - www.keystonekrawlers.com/Mods/Toyota/cvboot/CVBoot_replacement.htm

The first (4x4wire) write-up states that the inner CV joint must be removed by the use of a crowbar (steps 21 and 22).

The second write-up does not include the removal of the inner cv joint.

Is there a need or reason to remove the inner cv joint when replacing the cv boots only?

Are steps 21 and 22 applicable only when replacing the front axles?

Appreciate your inputs. Thanks.

GSGALLANT

Just my opinion, but you can do a better job using the 4x4wire writeup. You'll lose a bit of differential fluid doing it that way (maybe 1 cup), but it allows you to thoroughly clean out the old grease and dirt before repacking it with new grease. And repacking it would be a lot less messy on a workbench then in-situ underneath your vehicle (especially if it's the first time you do it). When I did mine, I used the FSM procedure, which is very close to the 4x4wire procedure, and it went really well. My friend and I removed the CV, rebuilt it, and re-installed it in about 3.5 hours, with some time in there for breaks.