Ford YL8Z-3A331-AA Boot

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If the CV joints are worn, indicating the need for an overhaul (usually due to torn boots), it's recommended to explore all options before starting the work. Rebuilt CV boots are available on an exchange basis, eliminating much time and effort. Some auto parts stores offer "split" type replacement boots, installable without CV joint removal, although for optimal results, the CV joint should be removed, disassembled and cleaned to ensure it's free from contaminants. Models equipped with ABS feature ABS sensor rings on the outer CV Joints. Inspection for chipped or missing teeth is essential. If necessary, the sensor ring should be replaced.To start, remove the CV joint from the vehicle and mount it in a vise with wooden or cloth-lined jaws to avoid damage. Removal of the inner CV joint and boot starts with cutting off the boot clamps, pulling the boot back from the joint, and sliding the joint housing off. It's important to mark the relationship between the tripod and the outer race. Next, a center punch is used to mark the tripod and axleshaft to ensure proper reassembly. The stop-ring ends are spread apart, moved towards the shaft's center, and the retainer clip is removed from the axleshaft end. The tripod joint is driven off the CV joint with a brass punch and hammer, ensuring the bearing surfaces or the shaft's splines are not damaged. The stop-ring is then removed from the axleshaft and discarded.During the inspection phase, old grease is removed from the outer race and the tripod bearing assembly. Each section of the tripod assembly is carefully disassembled and cleaned with solvent. The rollers, tripod, bearings, and outer race are inspected for scoring, pitting or abnormal wear, necessitating the replacement of the inner CV joint.During reassembly, the clamps and boot are slid onto the axleshaft, taking care to wrap the splines with tape to prevent boot damage. A new stop-ring is installed on the axleshaft, positioned past its groove, and a new bearing retainer clip is installed. The tripod is then placed on the shaft with aligned marks, the stop-ring is seated in its groove, and the joint housing and boot are packed with CV joint grease. The boot is slid into place and pressure inside it is equalized by inserting a small, dull screwdriver between the boot and the outer race. The boot clamps are tightened using appropriate tools and methods. The driveaxle assembly is then installed.Removal of the outer CV joint and boot involves removing the boot clamps and striking the CV joint housing edge sharply with a soft-face hammer to dislodge the outer CV joint from the axleshaft. The bearing retainer clip is removed and discarded, and the boot is slid off the axleshaft.During the inspection phase, all components are cleaned with solvent to remove old CV grease. The bearing surfaces of the inner tripods and housings are inspected for cracks, pitting, scoring, and wear. If any part of the outer CV joint is worn, the entire driveaxle assembly must be replaced.During reassembly, a new sealing boot clamp and boot are slid onto the axleshaft, with care taken to wrap the splines with tape to prevent boot damage. A new bearing retainer clip is placed onto the axle shaft, and grease from the sealing boot kit is applied to the outer CV joint assembly housing and inside the boot. The splines on the axleshaft are aligned with the splines on the outer CV joint assembly, and the CV joint is gently driven onto the axleshaft with a soft-faced hammer. Pressure in the boot is equalized, boot clamps are tightened, and the driveaxle is installed.For 4WD models, the same procedure applies to both the Inner and outer CV joint boots.