Split CV boots — Easy to install but they don’t last long

Installing split CV boots can help you temporarily, but they’re not a long-term fix

So your CV boot is torn, and you want to try to repair it yourself using a split CV boot kit. You want to know if a split CV boots are any good?” The short answer is no, they’re not. They don’t last nearly as long as a traditional replacement boot. Installation is a pain because you have to clean off all the old grease and keep everything sparkling clean while installing the split CV boot. However, if you don’t have the tools or the ability to replace the entire axle shaft, installing a split CV boot kit can buy you some time until you can do it properly.

Two types of split CV boots—glue style and nut and bolt style

A split CV boot is designed to slide around the existing axle shaft and be joined at the seam. The seam can be sealed with a quick-set adhesive or bolted together using screws and nuts.

Two common split CV boot kits

Even if you follow the instructions to a “T,” you’ll still wind up with a boot that simply won’t last as long as a traditional boot. Why? Because the seams aren’t nearly as flexible as a normal boot, and that’s where they’ll fail.

How to replace a torn CV boot with a split CV boot

1) Using side cutters, remove the two band clamps on the old boot.
2) Using a utility knife, slice through the old boot lengthwise and remove the old boot from the axle.
3) Clean off all the old grease
4) Open the new grease packet and squeeze new grease into the CV joint
5) Clean your hands or wear clean nitrile gloves before mating the two halves. If you’re gluing, this process must be spotless. Apply the adhesive to one side of the seam and join the two sections. Allow the glue to dry for the recommended time.
5) If you’re using a screw-type boot, install the screws and nuts into one seam and tighten to the recommended torque.
6) Slide the open side over the axle and complete the operation to join the open seam. Again, allow time for the glue to dry.
7) Slide the boot up to the joint and deposit all the remaining grease from the packet into the boot.
8) Slide the boot onto the joint and make sure the lip snaps into the depression on the joint
9) Open the band clamps and install them on the axle
10) Using a band clamp tightening tool, tighten both band clamps to the recommended tightness.

If you’ve purchased a Dorman Products boot kit, find the video instructions here

©, 2020 Rick Muscoplat